Genesis 1-2:3
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This is the first sermon in our series on God’s Story. This sermon is ‘Creation’.
Questions and going deeper resources
Small group questions
CONNECT: How can you remind yourself to put on the armour each day?
WARM-UP
- Why do you think Genesis 1 is so controversial at times? Do you think it needs to be controversial?
- Have you ever thought of Genesis 1 and 2 as a weaving of poetry and history? Why is it significant to note that these chapters are more concerned with “WHO?” and “WHY?” rather than “HOW”?
READ Genesis 1:1
- How does Genesis 1 compare to some of the ancient mythology of warring gods only bringing the world into existence by violence, accident, or afterthought?
- How does the modern mythology that everything is just an ‘accident’ compare to Genesis 1?
- What is the implication of the Bible’s assertion that creation is the result of a loving God intentionally and systematically creating a coherent universe?
- Can you explain some of the beautiful aspects of order contained in these verses? What are the parallels between God’s created realms and rulers?
- If God created the order, what are the implications for science?
READ Genesis 1:2-25
- How does Genesis 1 compare to some of the ancient mythology of warring gods only bringing the world into existence by violence, accident, or afterthought?
- How does the modern mythology that everything is just an ‘accident’ compare to Genesis 1?
- God speaks things into life with everything being held together by his authority and for his glory. Why therefore is his authority and rule so important in our role within creation?
- What is the implication of Bible’s assertion that creation is the result of a loving God intentionally and systematically creating a coherent universe?
READ Genesis 1:26-2:3
- What does it mean that humans were created in God’s image? What does it mean that we are to rule?
- How does God’s intention of creation shape our purpose, relationships, and work?
- How amazing do you find it that the creator of the universe desires relationship with you?
- How does God’s grace run right through the Bible from creation to new creation?
APPLY: How might you enjoy God’s creation this week in a way that causes you to give glory to the author of creation?
Prayer
Gracious Father, we thank you that in your kindness that you are the author of creation, including us! Please help us to live in accordance with your plans and purposes for your creation, especially that we may point to your glory and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Going deeper resources
On Your Frontline This Week: How are you going to read the Bible this year? Here are a couple of resources (both apps and books) that might help structuring daily Bible reading.
Listen, Watch, and Read:
- AUDIO: Genesis 1-11 by the Bible Project
- AUDIO: Genesis 1, “The Origins of the Universe” by William Taylor:
- AUDIO: Relevant Episodes of Undeceptions Podcast by John Dickson on “Creation”
- Episode 1 // Episode 2
Series Resources:
Some helpful resources for our Ephesians Series:
- Outline for Series with key verses, big ideas, and reflection questions
- Website: “What is the Bible” by the Bible Project. A series of short videos exploring the nature, story, styles, and literature of the Bible.
- Course: “The Bible Overview” as part of the Ridley Certificate (6-week online course).
(We’ll also be offering this in Term 3 of 2021 at St Bart’s.) - Book: “The Insect and the Buffalo” by Shamy Allpress.
- For Families: “The Big Picture Story Bible” by David Helm (Toddlers - Lower Primary)
- For Families:“The Jesus Storybook Bible” by Sally Lloyd-Jones (All Ages)
- For Families:“The Garden, Curtain and the Cross” by Carl Laferton (All Ages)
