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Books of the Bible


Genesis


Author

Usually supposed to be Moses

Date

Around 1400-1440 B.C.

Purpose

To show the beginnings of all things - the universe, man and sin - and to show how Israel became the chosen people

Outline

Creation (ch. 1)

Adam & Eve created (ch. 2)

Temptation and fall (ch. 3)

The spread of evil (ch. 4-5)

Destruction of the wicked people - the flood (ch. 6-11)

The first covenant - between God and Noah (ch. 9)

Abraham called out to be the father of a chosen people (ch 12)

The offering of Isaac (ch. 22)

Jacob wrestles with God and his name is changed to Israel (ch 32)

Joseph is sold into slavery (ch. 37)

Jacob and his family move to Egypt (ch 46)

Historical Context

Abraham lived during the time of the "middle kingdom" in Egypt, approximately 2100 B.C. This was about 300-500 years after the pyramid building period in Egypt. The middle kingdom lasted until sometime around 1800 B.C.

Key events

The creation, The Fall, The Flood, The development of nations, The Covenant with Abraham

Key people

Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph

Also consider Cain, Lot, Melchizedek

Theological significance

Virtually all of our major Christian doctrines have their roots in Genesis. We see God as creator, judge and giver of blessings. Sin is established in the world and God's plan for the nations is revealed through his covenant with Israel. The blessing of all nations through the line of Abraham was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.