Week 13 - Creation Pt.1
Understanding the Creator’s Purpose
Opening Scripture
Genesis 16
Study Section
Genesis 16 tells the story of Abram, Sarai, and Hagar. After years of waiting on God’s promise for a child, Sarai, still childless, suggests that Abram sleep with her Egyptian servant, Hagar, to produce an heir. Abram agrees, and Hagar becomes pregnant. Tensions rise as Hagar begins to look down on Sarai, leading to mistreatment and her fleeing into the wilderness.There, the Angel of the Lord finds Hagar, calls her by name, and tells her to return and submit. He also promises to multiply her offspring and gives a name to her son: Ishmael, meaning “God hears.” This is the first time in Scripture that an unborn child is named by God. Hagar calls God “El Roi,” meaning “the God who sees me.”
Core Application - Genesis 16 reminds us how easy it is to take matters into our own hands when God’s promises feel delayed. Sarai and Abram acted out of impatience, leading to relational pain and unintended consequences. Yet even in the fallout, God shows compassion, especially to Hagar—an outsider, a woman, and a servant.
Gospel Connection - Hagar’s encounter with “the Angel of the Lord” is a theophany—a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. She experiences God’s grace in the wilderness, just like we do. Jesus meets us in our brokenness, not when we have it all together. The promise to Hagar is a reminder that God sees and hears the afflicted. Through Jesus, the ultimate child of promise, God fulfills what no human plan can—true redemption.
Discussion Questions
Why do you think Sarai and Abram chose to act on their own plan instead of waiting on God?
What does Hagar’s story tell us about how God views the overlooked or mistreated?
How does this passage challenge us when we face seasons of waiting or suffering?
Do you ever find yourself doubting God’s goodness, His ability to deliver, or whether His commands are too hard to follow? How does the promise of Jesus in John 3:16 help reframe that doubt?
Prayer
Week 12 - Covenant Theology
Scripture:
Genesis 9:11 (Noahic Covenant): "I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth."
Genesis 15:5-6 (Abrahamic Covenant): "And he brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness."
Hebrews 11:1-2: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation."
Discussion Section:
The Old Testament reveals five major covenants that illustrate God’s ongoing relationship with humanity. Each covenant builds upon the previous, ultimately pointing to Christ as the fulfillment. The Adamic Covenant introduced the idea of humanity’s role to glorify God and care for creation, though sin brought separation from God. The Noahic Covenant symbolized God’s grace and promise to never again destroy the earth with a flood, demonstrated by the rainbow—a sign of God’s enduring mercy. The Abrahamic Covenant introduced God’s plan to bless the nations through Abraham’s descendants, underscoring faith as the foundation of righteousness. The Mosaic Covenant established laws to guide God’s people toward holiness, while the Davidic Covenant promised an eternal kingdom through David’s lineage, fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
These covenants show God’s unwavering faithfulness, even when humanity failed to uphold their part. They remind us that salvation and relationship with God are gifts of grace, requiring faith and trust. As believers in Christ, we participate in the New Covenant, sealed by Jesus’ sacrifice, where the laws are written on our hearts, and we are empowered by the Spirit to live in faithful obedience.
Discussion Questions:
How does the progression of the covenants reflect God’s faithfulness despite humanity’s repeated failures?
In what ways does the Abrahamic Covenant challenge us to live by faith and trust in God’s promises?
How does understanding the covenants deepen your appreciation for Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s plan?
Reflecting on the New Covenant, what does it mean for God’s laws to be written on our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33)? How does this shape your daily walk with Christ?
In what areas of your life are you being called to greater faith, echoing Abraham’s example in Genesis 15:6?
Closing Prayer
Week 11 - Sin, Holiness, & Intercession
The Great High Priest
Opening Scripture
Genesis 14:17–20
Study Section
In Genesis 14, we encounter Melchizedek, a mysterious figure who is both king and priest. His name, meaning "King of Righteousness," and his title as "King of Salem" (which translates to "King of Peace"), point to a deeper reality. While on the surface he provides bread and wine to Abram, symbolizing sustenance and celebration, Melchizedek also foreshadows a greater intercessor—Jesus Christ. Psalm 110 confirms that this priesthood transcends time, with the promise of a priest "forever in the order of Melchizedek." Hebrews later ties this eternal priesthood to Christ, who perfectly bridges the gap between God and humanity. Jesus, our eternal high priest, not only intercedes for us but also secures our hope through His finished work on the cross. His intercession is ongoing, guaranteeing that sin no longer separates us from a holy God.
Discussion Questions
Understanding Melchizedek: What do we learn about Melchizedek’s role as both king and priest in Genesis 14? How does his interaction with Abram hint at a greater fulfillment in Christ?
The Priesthood of Jesus: According to Hebrews 7:23–25, how does Jesus’ eternal priesthood differ from the Levitical priests? Why is this significant for us today?
Sin and Holiness: Reflect on the incomprehensible holiness of God. Why is it necessary to have an intercessor to approach Him?
Intercession and Application: Hebrews 4:14–16 describes Jesus as a high priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses. How does this truth impact the way you approach prayer and repentance?
Response to Christ’s Intercession: In light of Jesus’ role as the eternal high priest, what steps can you take to deepen your trust and devotion to Him this week?
Closing Prayer
Week 10 - The Corruption of Authority
Opening Scripture
Genesis 14:1-16
Discussion
In Genesis 1:28, God granted humanity authority over creation, inviting them to care for it alongside Him. However, the Fall corrupted this authority, leading humanity to misuse it for selfish gain rather than stewardship. This misuse of authority has caused destruction, as illustrated in Genesis 14’s account of the war involving nine kings. The brutal conflict reveals humanity’s pride and greed in its quest for power. Abram’s faithful response to rescue his nephew Lot highlights the stark contrast between human corruption and God’s redemptive authority. Abram’s obedience to God not only restored lives but also demonstrated how living under God’s authority transforms communities. Ultimately, Jesus corrects this corruption, reclaiming authority through His life, death, and resurrection. His example calls us to live in His authority, improving the lives of those around us.
Discussion Questions:
How do you see the misuse of authority affecting the world around you today?
In what ways can we invite God into how we exercise authority in our daily lives?
How does Jesus’ use of authority—making Himself low to elevate others—challenge the way we view leadership?
In what areas of your life are you tempted to use authority for personal gain rather than for God’s purposes?
How can you ensure that your obedience to God positively impacts the lives of those around you?
What does it look like to live under Jesus’ authority in practical terms?
How can surrendering to Jesus’ authority bring restoration and transformation in your relationships, family, or community?
Who in your life might be affected by your decision to fully submit to God’s authority?
Prayer
Week 9 - Trusting God’s Provision
Scripture Focus: Genesis 13:8–9 (ESV)
"Then Abram said to Lot, ‘Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left.’"
Discussion
Genesis 13 reminds us that when conflicts arise—especially over resources or direction—how we respond reveals our trust in God. Abram could have insisted on choosing first. Instead, he relinquished control, knowing that God's promise was not tied to human decisions or visible advantages. Lot’s choice was based on what looked good, but Abram’s was rooted in faith. God’s provision, even in allowing preference, demonstrates His sovereign generosity. And as Abram lifted his eyes in faith, God reaffirmed His faithfulness. This challenges us to consider: Do we trust God enough to let go, to defer, and to wait on His promises?
Discussion Questions
What does this chapter teach us about trusting God's provision when things seem uncertain?
How can we discern between what looks good and what is truly part of God’s best for us?
In what ways have you seen God’s faithfulness show up after an act of obedience or humility?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being our Provider and Promise Keeper. Help us to walk in faith like Abram, trusting You even when the path isn’t clear. Teach us to hold things loosely and value peace over personal gain. Strengthen our hearts to wait on You and believe that what You have for us is greater than anything we could take for ourselves. May we lift our eyes to You, and find rest in Your faithfulness.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Week 8 - Faith & Failure
Scripture: Genesis 12:1–20
Study Focus:
The theme of land emerges prominently in Genesis 12 as God calls Abram to leave his country and journey to a land God has promised to his descendants. This land symbolizes God’s blessing and His plan to restore humanity. Yet, Abram’s lack of faith and fear leads him away from God’s will, highlighting both human frailty and God’s steadfast faithfulness. Throughout this text we see 3 key moments:
God's Promise: In Genesis 12:1–7, God promises Abram a land for his descendants, a place of blessing and abundance where He will dwell with His people.
Abram's Fear and Failure: When famine strikes, Abram turns to Egypt instead of trusting God. His fear leads him to deceive Pharaoh, endangering his marriage and God's promise.
God’s Faithfulness: Despite Abram’s failures, God protects him and Sarai, preserving His promise. This reflects God’s unchanging nature and His commitment to His covenant.
Abram’s journey mirrors our own struggles with faith and fear. Yet, God’s faithfulness remains our hope, even when we fall short.
Discussion Questions:
Reflection on Faith: How does Abram’s decision to flee to Egypt reveal his struggle with trusting God? Can you recall a time when fear caused you to take matters into your own hands?
God's Faithfulness: Despite Abram’s failure, God remained faithful. How have you experienced God’s faithfulness in your life, even when you’ve lacked faith?
The Role of the Land: What does the land symbolize in this passage? How does God’s promise of the land reflect His larger plan for humanity?
Spiritual Rhythms: Abram’s lack of faith led to poor decisions. What spiritual disciplines can you cultivate to strengthen your trust in God during times of fear and uncertainty?
Intergenerational Impact: Abram’s failure set patterns for his descendants. How can our faithfulness—or lack thereof—impact future generations?
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your steadfast love and faithfulness. We confess that, like Abram, we often struggle to trust You fully. Help us to walk by faith, not by sight, and to rely on Your promises in times of fear and uncertainty. Strengthen our spiritual disciplines so that we may grow closer to You. May our lives reflect Your glory and grace, impacting those around us and the generations to come. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Week 7 - Walking in Faith Like Abram
Scripture Reading
Genesis 12:1-4 (NIV)
"The Lord had said to Abram, 'Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.' So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran."
Short Study
Genesis 12 marks the beginning of Abram's journey of faith. God calls Abram to leave his home, his family, and everything familiar to follow Him to an unknown destination. This call is both a challenge and a promise: Abram must trust God completely, and in return, God promises blessings not only for Abram but for the entire world through him.
Abram's obedience to God's call demonstrates a critical aspect of discipleship—faith in action. Just as Abram stepped out into the unknown, we are called to trust God's leading in our lives, even when we don’t see the full picture. Like Abram, our faith is not just for our benefit but is meant to bless others as well.
To live in faith like Abram, we must:
Listen to God’s Call – Spend time in prayer and Scripture to discern His leading.
Trust God’s Promises – Even when the path seems uncertain, believe that God is faithful.
Take Action – Faith requires steps of obedience, even when we don’t have all the answers.
Be a Blessing to Others – Our faith journey is a testimony that can inspire and uplift those around us.
Discussion Questions
How do you think Abram felt when God called him to leave everything familiar? Have you ever faced a situation where God asked you to step out in faith?
What are some practical ways we can trust God when the future is unclear?
God promised Abram that he would be a blessing to others. How can we, in our daily lives, be a blessing to those around us?
What steps of faith might God be calling you to take right now? How can the group support you in this?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the example of Abram, who trusted You and obeyed Your call. Help us to hear Your voice and follow where You lead, even when the path is uncertain. Strengthen our faith, Lord, and remind us of Your promises. May our lives be a testimony of Your goodness and a blessing to others. Guide us to walk in obedience and trust, knowing that You are always faithful.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Week 4 - The Heart of Worship
Scripture:
"Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground. In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard."
—Genesis 4:2b-5a
Study: This passage highlights Cain’s failure not simply in the offering he brought, but in the heart behind it. Abel gave the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions, a deliberate act of worship and recognition of God as the ultimate source of all provision. Cain, on the other hand, gave out of obligation rather than devotion. His offering revealed a heart focused on himself rather than God.
The Purpose of Worship
From creation, humanity's purpose has been to know God and reflect His glory across the earth (Genesis 1:27-28). Worship through offering is an outward expression of our inward relationship with God. Abel’s offering glorified God, acknowledging His goodness and sovereignty. Cain’s offering, however, failed to honor God, exposing his inward resistance to God's rightful place as Creator and Sustainer.
Cain’s Missed Opportunity
When God corrected Cain, it was an opportunity to turn toward Him in repentance and deepen his relationship. Instead, Cain’s anger and jealousy revealed that his heart was not aligned with God's will. God’s words, “If you do well, will you not be accepted?” remind us that God desires a willing and worshipful heart, not begrudging compliance.
Discussion Questions:
Heart Check: What does your attitude toward worship and giving reveal about your relationship with God? Are you offering Him your first and best, or just what is convenient?
Purpose and Glory: How can we actively align our lives with God’s purpose to fill the earth with His glory?
Responding to Correction: When God reveals areas of sin or weakness in your life, how do you typically respond? How can Cain’s story encourage you to respond differently?
Sin’s Warning: What steps can you take to “rule over” sin when it is crouching at your door?
Living for God’s Glory: In what practical ways can you show that knowing God is your ultimate desire, not just outwardly but inwardly?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with humility, recognizing that You see our hearts. Help us to give You our first and best in all things—not out of obligation, but out of love and devotion. Forgive us for the times we have worshiped You with divided hearts or held back what rightfully belongs to You. Teach us to know You deeply and to live for Your glory. May our lives reflect Your goodness and truth, and may we resist sin through the power of Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Week 3 - The Fall
The Introduction of Sin
Scripture Passage
Genesis 3:1-15; Romans 5:12
Study
The story of Genesis 3 introduces us to the reality of sin and its devastating effects on humanity and creation. Sin enters the world through the deception of Satan, who misrepresents God’s word to Eve. Though God had made clear His command about the tree, Satan's lie ("You will not surely die") appealed to the human desire for autonomy and self-glorification. Adam and Eve, though made in God’s image and tasked with representing Him, surrendered their divine identity in exchange for a false promise of being "like God." This act of disobedience fractured their relationship with God, distorted their purpose, and brought shame, fear, and separation.
Through Adam, sin entered the world, and all of creation was subjected to the consequences of disobedience (Romans 5:12). Yet even in the midst of judgment, we find the first glimpse of the gospel. God promises a Redeemer (Genesis 3:15) who will crush the head of the serpent. This prophecy points to Jesus Christ, who restores what was broken, reconciles us to God, and offers us new life through His death and resurrection. Sin is devastating, but God's grace through Christ is greater.
Discussion Questions
How did Satan distort God’s word in Genesis 3, and why is it important to have a clear understanding of what God says?
What does the concept of "headship" teach us about Adam’s responsibility and the consequences of sin?
How do we see the nature of sin affecting Adam and Eve’s relationship with God, with each other, and with creation?
In what ways do we "hide" from God today, and how does this impact our spiritual life?
How does the promise of Genesis 3:15 point to Jesus, and what hope does this bring to us in light of sin's consequences?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You acknowledging the weight of sin in our lives and the world. We thank You for Your patience, grace, and mercy, shown even in the garden when You called out to Adam and Eve. Thank You for the promise of redemption through Jesus Christ, who crushed the power of sin and death. Help us to run to You instead of hiding, to trust in Your Word, and to live as Your image-bearers. Transform our hearts to desire Your glory above all else. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Week 2 - Creation Pt.2
Opening Scripture
Genesis 1:26–28:
"Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”
Study
God declares that humanity is created in His image. This identity is both a privilege and a calling. As image bearers, we are meant to reflect God's character, glory, and love in every area of our lives. Being created in God's image gives us intrinsic worth and purpose. It also calls us to see the same worth and dignity in others, regardless of their background, abilities, or differences.
Sin seeks to distort this truth, leading to division and devaluing others based on their function or circumstances. Yet, Christ—the perfect image of God—restores our identity and empowers us to live out our purpose: to represent God, reflect His glory, and multiply His presence in the world.
How are we living as faithful image bearers? Are we representing God well in our homes, workplaces, and relationships? And are we seeing others as He does—valuable, loved, and created with a purpose?
Discussion Questions
Identity as Image Bearers
What does it mean to you personally to be made in the image of God?
How does this identity shape how you view yourself and others?
Living with Purpose
Genesis 1:28 speaks of being fruitful, multiplying, and having dominion. How can these commands apply to your daily life and relationships?
What are practical ways to reflect God's glory in your family, workplace, or community?
Recognizing Value in Others
How can we better identify and affirm the value and dignity of others, especially those who may be marginalized or different from us?
What role does the church play in demonstrating the truth that all people are image bearers of God?
Christ as the Perfect Image
How does Jesus, as the perfect image of God, model what it means to live as an image bearer?
In what ways can His example challenge or inspire us to live out our calling?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for creating us in Your image and for giving us the privilege and purpose of reflecting Your glory. Forgive us for the times we have failed to live as Your representatives or have devalued others. Help us to see the worth and dignity in every person and to treat them as You would. Teach us to live with purpose, to follow Jesus more closely, and to multiply Your presence and love in this world. May Your Spirit empower us to be faithful ambassadors of Your Kingdom, and may our lives bring You glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Week 1 - Creation Pt.1
Understanding the Creator’s Purpose
Opening Scripture
Genesis 1:1-3 (ESV)
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light."
Study
In this passage, we encounter the profound truth of God's role as Creator. The focus of Genesis 1:1-3 is not just on the mechanics of creation but on the God who purposed it. The text invites us to approach it with humility and openness, setting aside modern concerns about proving creation theories or fitting scientific narratives into Scripture.
Moses wrote Genesis to the Israelites wandering in the wilderness—a people who had witnessed God’s power in their deliverance. Through this passage, God revealed Himself as the eternal Creator, who not only made the heavens and the earth but also prepared creation with purpose and intention.
The primary subject here is not "the beginning" or the process of creation itself but the Creator, God. He is a God of order who brings meaning to what is formless and void. This same God desires to dwell with His creation, as evidenced by the structure and purpose of the days in Genesis 1.
As we study, let us remember to focus on God’s nature, character, and desire to be with His people.
Discussion Questions
How does Genesis 1:1-3 shape your understanding of God as Creator?
Why is it important to focus on God rather than the mechanics of creation?
What does the concept of God being a God of order reveal about His character and His desires for His creation?
How can we apply the truth of God’s purposes in creation to our daily lives?
Moses wrote Genesis to a wandering and weary people. How does this passage encourage you in your current circumstances?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before You humbled by the power of Your Word. Thank You for being the Creator who brings order to chaos and purpose to all things. Help us to approach Your Word with open hearts, willing to be taught and transformed. May we focus on You, the eternal God, and align our lives with Your will. Just as You revealed Yourself to the Israelites in the wilderness, reveal Your presence and purposes to us today. We trust in Your desire to dwell with us and give You all glory and honor. In Jesus’ name, Amen.