.5.25 Discussion Guide—Weeks 1 & 2, Genesis 1-29
I wanted to start by giving you a brief explanation of this week’s discussion guide. Looking at the chapters (Gen 1-29), it can seem like there is a lot of material to cover in a small group setting. This discussion guide covers the first two weeks of our chronological Bible reading plan. Going forward, a passage from the reading for the upcoming week will be preached. Since there was no discussion guide for the first week, I will combine the discussions for weeks one and two in this guide.
GENESIS 1-29
In a Nutshell
We began with the opening chapters of Genesis, which detail the creation of the world, placing human beings at the pinnacle of creation, the fall into sin, and its consequences. The flood represents the first expression of God’s judgment on humanity as a whole and his desire to preserve the life he created. In Week 2, we are introduced to Abraham, with whom God makes a covenant that extends to his descendants. What we have encountered so far and what we will explore in these chapters this week are foundational for our lives. These chapters provide what is known as a biblical worldview.
A Biblical Worldview (1-29)
- The Bible begins with, “In the beginning, God.” What does this reveal about God, and what implications does it have for our lives?
- Have your group open their Bibles to Genesis 1-3. Using chapters 1-3, can you identify what a “biblical worldview” tells us about who we are, what we are, and what our problem is? What is the solution to our problem?
- As you read through the first eleven chapters, what are some consequences of sin? Was there a character who stood out to you, and if so, why? How did their choices affect their lives? Note: Terry said, “Get the problem wrong, get the solution wrong.” Consider how the characters you thought of arrived at the wrong solution.
Abram and God’s Covenant Promise (12-13)
Here, God speaks to Abram and tells him to go to the land he will show him. This is more of a challenge than we can imagine. He is to leave all that he knows and follow God into what is, for him, an unknown future. (You can have your group turn to chapters 12-13 and skim over them; remember, you will be reading these chapters this week.)
- What is the covenantal promise God made to Abram? What was Abram’s response?
- How did things go for Abram after this promise from God? (think of the long days and years and the conflict and dysfunction in his family.)
Jacob at Bethel Genesis 28:10-18
For some background context, Jacob was a schemer who only looked to put himself first. Isaac ignored his favored son Esau’s lack of self-control and immorality (see Genesis 26:34,35). Rebekah deceived her own husband to promote her favored son. All four suffered in some fashion for their lack of character, but through all this human folly, God’s plan was not thwarted. Though Jacob was not seeking God, God went to him in a dream.
- What is the promise God makes to Jacob? What was Jacob’s response? What is happening in this story? What is one takeaway for you personally?
(Note: Think back to Terry’s message, “Jacob’s life was shaken and shaped by this experience…God would continue to train Jacob to trust through both his own folly and through God’s continued faithfulness.) - From what you’ve discussed, what application can you make to your own situation?
Conclusion
The opening chapters of the Book of Genesis are the ultimate reality: ” In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” This is not about mere intellectual curiosity; it’s not churchy words with no bearing on real life. Everything depends on getting this right.
- Do you believe this, and do you believe what you say? If so, will you allow God’s word to shape you?
Close
- “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16). Have your group close by sharing some practical ways you can live this verse out. Pray for each other’s success in doing so.