Week 1: Genesis 1-2
SNEAK PEAK. THE BIBLE STUDY OFFICIALLY STARTS JAN. 5th, 2025
Theme: Humanity’s birthright in creation
Focus: God’s intent for humanity to rule as His image-bearers
Objectives
Understand the creation narrative and God’s original design for humanity.
Reflect on what it means to be created in God’s image.
Explore humanity’s role as stewards of creation and rulers under God’s authority.
Scripture Focus
Introduction
Listen, God’s heart from the very beginning has been all about relationship. He’s not distant or detached—He’s a Father who creates with purpose and intention. Genesis isn’t just a story about the world coming into existence; it’s the foundation of who we are and why we’re here. We were created to know Him, reflect Him, and walk with Him in His heart for creation. Let’s dive into what that means for us as His children.
The Creation of All Things (Genesis 1:1-25)
God’s Order, Beauty, and Goodness
Think about this: God spoke, and everything came into existence. That’s power, but it’s not just raw power—it’s love in action. When God says, “It is good,” He’s revealing His nature—His perfection, His beauty, His care. Creation wasn’t chaotic or random; it was intentional. Everything—from the stars to the sea to the smallest creature—reflects His goodness.
What’s This Say About God? He’s not a distant God. He’s intimately involved in every detail. And when He created, He didn’t just make stuff—He poured His heart into it. That’s the God we get to call Father.
Why Does This Matter to Us? If creation reflects God’s nature, then how much more should we, as His children, reflect His character?
Humanity as Image-Bearers (Genesis 1:26-28)
What Does It Mean to Be Made in His Image?
God said, “Let us make man in our image.” That’s huge. It means we were made to reflect Him—His love, His creativity, His authority. We’re not just another part of creation; we’re His children, set apart to reveal His heart.
Imago Dei: This isn’t about physical likeness—it’s about nature. God is Spirit, and He’s relational. So, being made in His image means we were created for connection with Him and others.
Authority to Rule: Think about this—God gave us dominion. That’s not permission to exploit; it’s a call to steward. It’s about walking in love and representing Him well.
The Blessing and Mandate (Genesis 1:28-30)
Be Fruitful and Multiply
When God blesses humanity, He doesn’t just say, “Go exist.” He says, “Be fruitful. Multiply. Fill the earth. Subdue it. Have dominion.” That’s purpose right there! He’s inviting us to partner with Him in expanding His kingdom and caring for His creation.
Fruitfulness Isn’t Just About Kids: This is about multiplying His heart, His love, His nature in the earth. It’s about letting His kingdom come through us.
Provision Through Creation: He’s a good Father who provides for His children. Everything we need to fulfill our purpose, He’s already given.
The Creation of Humanity and Their Role (Genesis 2:4-15)
God’s Personal Touch
Genesis 2 shows us how personal God is. He didn’t just speak humanity into existence; He formed Adam with His hands and breathed life into him. That’s intimacy. That’s relationship.
Placed in the Garden: God didn’t just create Adam and leave him; He put him in a place of beauty and purpose. The Garden of Eden wasn’t just a home; it was a sanctuary, a place to encounter God and carry out His work.
Work Isn’t a Curse: Tending the garden wasn’t a burden; it was part of Adam’s identity. When we partner with God in what He’s doing, work becomes worship.
God’s Design for Relationships (Genesis 2:18-25)
It’s Not Good for Man to Be Alone
When God says, “It’s not good for man to be alone,” He’s not saying Adam was incomplete without Eve. He’s revealing His heart for relationship. God is relational, and we were made to reflect that.
Unity in Diversity: Eve wasn’t an afterthought; she was part of God’s perfect design. Together, Adam and Eve reflect the unity and love that exists within the Trinity.
Marriage as Covenant: This isn’t just about two people being together; it’s a picture of Christ and the Church—a union of love, sacrifice, and purpose.