Genesis 1-2: Verse by Verse With Bible Study FellowshipSample

Uniquely Human

How can we explain the differences we see between humanity and animals? Beyond our superior intelligence and communication skills, we are also set apart by the way we contemplate our existence and personally relate to our Creator – a relationship made possible through the God-man and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Why are these things so, and what do they mean?

Genesis 1 and 2 proclaim Almighty God is Creator of all. Unlike plant and animal life, people stand unique among God’s creation. Only man and woman are created in His own image. God’s image gives every person dignity, worth and purpose. These foundational truths explain much of our reality.

Since God is our Creator, He designed us uniquely, not merely to exist. What does this say about our distinctive talents, gifts and even weaknesses? What is your right response to your Creator? You are specially designed to know the God who made you, in this life and forever. How will the truth that God knows you completely and loves you unconditionally impact your life, your week, your day – this moment?

God Gets Personal

Genesis 2 reveals a different Hebrew name for God than the one used in Genesis 1. Different names for each person of the triune God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – occur throughout the Bible. These names combine to express a more complete reality of God’s multi-faceted, praiseworthy nature.

Chapter 1 uses Elohim, translated “God.” This name refers to the fullness of His person and power. Elohim is a plural noun, although paired with singular verbs to show plurality or majesty.

Chapter 2 uses Yahweh Elohim, usually translated “LORD God.” This name refers to His personal revelation and redemption, offered so people can know and relate with Him.

Genesis 1 reveals the powerful Creator responsible for this world. Genesis 2 reveals the intimate LORD God, who formed Adam, breathed into his nostrils and made him a living being. In other words, we see our God in the all-powerful words of Genesis 1 and in the gentle breath of Genesis 2.

How deeply do you want to know God? God created us with an innate longing to know and worship Him, the God who gives us life. So, finding identity and purpose in anything but God ultimately proves to be dissatisfying, even disastrous. God’s full identity exceeds our understanding. Are you one of His people? Will you explore His attributes like satisfying, inexhaustible wells forever?

God invites all who will come to begin to know Him by grace through faith today. When we study God’s Word by faith, with Him as our companion and guide, we grow in our knowledge of God. Will you embrace these truths about God in Genesis? If so, they will humble you. Grasping God’s greatness and grace leads us to worship – to joyfully obey His ways.

The Imprint of God

Acknowledging that God is the source of every human’s identity and dignity raises our passion to alleviate human suffering. Atrocities like human trafficking, murder, racial injustice and mistreatment of the disabled and elderly are exposed for their horrors, when we affirm each person is God’s image-bearer.

We deny God’s intended value and worth for humanity when we fail to see God’s imprint on each person. Once we remove the centrality of God in each person’s being, we will begin to value things more than people. We will pursue our own selfish pleasures over the basic welfare of others.

How clearly do you recognize the image of God in others? When we see our commonalities and community as humans created in God’s image, we can love and accept people who are not like us, even those who do not like us. Is this the view you want to hold and live by all your days?

Questions

1. Scan today’s verses. What truths about God, humankind, and the relationship between God and humankind stand out?
2. How does resting to focus on God, your value to Him, and His work in you, challenge or change your plans and perspectives on life?