In this second episode in our study of Genesis, we will continue the story of how God transformed primeval chaos into a functional universe where God may be worshiped. Genesis describes God’s transforming work over a period of seven days, which the biblical author presents in a beautiful literary structure worthy of representing the beauty of God’s universe. Through this compositional framework the writer highlights important theological emphases and demonstrates that he is not giving a chronological narrative. As a result, we do not need to carry the heavy burden of fitting scripture together with modern science. The Biblical story of creation and the scientific explanation of origins are not in conflict at all. They are discussing totally different subjects.
Additional resource: Chart of the structure of this hymn to the creator
00:00 Opening comments
07:15 The First Day
11:56 The Second Day
15:09 The Third Day
17:33 The Fourth Day
22:30 The Fifth Day
25:37 The Sixth Day
35:45 Closing comments
1. Notice the repeated words and phrases throughout this passage. What does this tell you about the orderliness of God? What does it tell you about the purposes of the human author of this section?
2. Why does this passage describe God forming the universe on days 1-3 and filling it on days 4-6? Do you feel any sense of climax in this story?
3. What is the relationship between God’s spoken word (“And God said, let…”) and his sovereign power (“and it was so”)?
4. Why do you think the Bible tells us who created, but does not tell us exactly how? What does this tell you about the relative importance of the method and timing of God’s creation?
5. In your everyday life, how aware are you of the created world around you? How does this affect your opinion of God?
6. What does it mean to you to be created in God’s image? Does this give you a better opinion of yourself? How does this affect your relationship with God? With other people?
7. How does this story of creation affect the way you treat the natural world around you?
Episodes released every two weeks on Monday
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