Expert: Scott Talbot - 9/21/2010

Question
What is the central theme in the Book of Genesis?

Answer
Hi Phil,

The central theme of Genesis is that of "beginnings." In fact, the word, Genesis, means beginning.

In Genesis, we learn of the beginning of the universe through God's miraculous acts of creation. It was the beginning of light and darkness, sky and earth, wildlife, plant life, birds, and ocean life. The sun, moon, stars, planets, and celestial bodies were created and put in place.

Genesis also tells us about the beginning of the human race through the creation of Adam and Eve.

Unfortunately, we also learn of the beginning of sin, the Fall of Man, and the resulting curse. Shortly thereafter, we learn of the plan God put in place to rescue us from sin and separation, from the curse, from death, and from condemnation.

Genesis talks about the beginning of languages and the beginning of nations. It also records the beginning of the nation of Israel, the nation God chose to play a special role to unfold His plan for the ages.

There are other "firsts" recorded in Genesis. It is an exciting book and certainly well worth studying.

Scott