Date and Setting The setting of the first 11 chapters changes rapidly as it spans more than 2000 years

and 1500 miles, and paints the majestic acts of the Creation, the Garden of Eden, the Flood, and the towering citadel of Babel. Contribution to the Bible Genesis provides a historical perspective for the rest of the Bible by covering more time than all the other biblical books combined. It gives the foundation for all the great doctrines of the Bible. It shows how God overcomes mans failure under different conditions. Genesis is especially crucial to an understanding of Revelation, because the first and last three chapters of the bible are so intimately related. Over 2000 years are covered in Genesis 1-11, but this represents only one-fifth of the book. By contrast, four-fifth of Genesis (Chapter 12-50) covers less than 300 years. It is clear that Genesis is highly thematic, concentrating on the course of Gods redemptive work. Genesis is not a complete or universal history. Genesis was written to present the beginning of (everything except God); the universe (1:1); man (1:27); the Sabbath (2:2-3); marriage (2:22-24); sin (3:1-7); sacrifice and salvation (3:15, 21); government (9:1-6); nations (11); Israel (12:1-3). It was also written to record Gods choice of Israel and His covenant plan for the nation, so that the Israelites would have a spiritual perspective. Genesis shows how the sin of man is met by the intervention and redemption of God. Survey of Genesis The 4 Great Events: Chapters 1-11 lay the foundation upon which the whole Bible is built and center on 4 key events. 1. Creation: God is the sovereign Creator of matter, energy, space, and time. Man is the pinnacle of the Creation. 2. Fall: Creation is followed by corruption. In the first sin man is separated from God (Adam from God), and in the second sin, man is separated from man (Cain from Abel). In spite of the devastating curse of the Fall, God promises hope of redemption through the seed of the woman (3:15). 3. Flood: As man multiplies, sin also multiplies until God is compelled to destroy humanity with the exception of Noah and his family. 4. Nations: Genesis teaches the unity of the human race: we are all children of Adam through Noah, but because of rebellion at the Tower of Babel, God fragments the single culture and language of the post-flood world and scatters people over the face of the earth.
The Wilkinson & Boa Bible Handbook, Nelson Publishers

Progressive Revelation in Genesis Progressive Revelation in Genesis The Bible as one book is a progressive revelation, each book taking the reader one step further in the unfolding of Gods character, His plans and purposes, His will and desires. Likewise, within each book of the Bible is a progressive revelation. Creation: Chapters 1 & 2 reveal to us the power and wisdom of God. He is allpowerful and all-wise to create this universe and so marvelously fit this work for the habitation of man (Psalm 19:1-6). Fall: Chapters 3-4 reveal to us the love and mercy of God who. When the human race disobeyed His command and rebelled against His sovereignty, He came seeking them and provided a way by which they could regain their lost estate. Flood: Chapters 6 to 9 reveal the justice and holiness of God. Sin is abhorrent to Him. He is of purer eyes than to behold sin. He must punish sin. Nations: Chapters 10-11 reveal the sovereignty of God. He is King. He rules the world. He has power over all mankind. He will be obeyed.
Irving Jensen, Self-Study Guide on Genesis, Moody Press

Application is the ability to appropriate the Scriptures into daily experience. Its possible to know Gods Word and yet not live it. Gods truth must churn through our minds, seep into our hearts, and flow out to every area of life. As we study, we need to ask, Is this true in my life? What do I need to change? And other questions that prompt us to apply Gods truth. Being hearers of the Word, as James says, is not enough. We must be doers of the Word (James 1:22-25; see also John 13:17).
Insights Old Testament Handbook, Charles R. Swindoll, Insight for Living
What a bright picture chapters 1 & 2 of Genesis present. Unfallen man surrounded by everything to make him happy, had only one command laid upon him to test whether he would take his proper place as a creature subordinate to his Maker.
Irving L. Jensen, Genesis A Self-Study Guide, Moody Press