SermonS

CURRENT SERMON SERIES

GENESIS: THE BOOK OF BEGINNINGS

The name of the first book of the Bible originates from the first word of the Hebrew text which means “in the beginning”. This is an appropriate designation because the book is about beginnings: the beginning of the universe; the beginning of time, matter, and space; the beginning of humanity; the beginning of sin; the beginning of redemption; and the beginning of Israel. The opening statement, “in the beginning God…” introduces us to the main character not only of Genesis, but of the entire Bible – God Himself. Genesis is not a book about creation or humanity, but about God. “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1). Humanity is created in the image of God (imago dei) and bears not only His image, but His purposes (imitatio dei). We reflect not only His character but engage in His generative function of creating beauty within the world. The entrance of sin and redemption (Genesis 3), begins the narrative strand that is woven throughout the remainder of the Bible. Humanity continues to fall into sin against God, and God continues to show His glorious grace which culminates in the introduction of the True Adam, Jesus Christ, who secures salvation for those whom God loves. The book of Genesis is foundational to a proper understanding and interpretation of the entire canon of Scripture. We will begin where God begins, “in the beginning” and see His unfolding story come to life.