Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Week 5: Genesis 1–3 and Revelation 20–22

We're continuing our adventure through Genesis as we practice our emerging Bible study skills. This week we did something a little different. We stepped back to get the bigger picture on the Bible by looking for common themes between Genesis 1–3 and Revelation 20–22. We were also discussed the doctrine of the perspicuity of Scripture.


Class Discussion:
  • New skill:
    • The perspicuity or clarity of Scripture

Activation:
  • Repeated themes in Genesis 1–11
  • Repeated images in Genesis 1–3 and Revelation 20–22


At-Home Skills Practice:
  • Step 1: We’re reading through Genesis 1–11 again this week. This time I want you to add to the list that you started last week of repeated phrases and ideas. Again, be sure to include the chapter and verse(s) for each one that you record. Bring this list with you to class so we can discuss it.
  • Step 2: 
    • Describe how you have heard the story of Cain and Abel preached in the past. What is the frequent application of this story?
    • In light of what we've discussed in class, what do you think the author's purpose of this story is based on the larger flow of Genesis 1–11? Does the common application we hear today fit with the author's purpose of the story?
  • Step 3: Compare and contrast the author's descriptions of the genealogies of Cain (4:17–24)  and Seth (4:25–32). Make a list of what you notice.
  • Step 4: How does the description of the state of the world in 6:1–8 act as the climax of this section of the author's story? In other words, what is the function of these verses in the overall flow of chapters 2–11? 
  • Step 5: 
    • Find the references to Cain and Abel in the New Testament. How is this story used/applied by New Testament authors? 
    • Which one would you choose if you were teaching a lesson on promise-fulfillment (include the reference)? Why would you choose that one?
    •  
Digging Deeper: 

  • Read: How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. Try to get through chapter 3.