The title "Genesis" means birth or becoming. It is taken from the Septuagint, which is the Greek translation of the OLD TESTAMENT. This is also the first word in the book. The entire book of Genesis is about so many beginnings. It introduces us to the almighty God, the Creator and Governor of the world, of time, and of purpose. Genesis teaches us about the beginnings of man's disobedience, of the enmity God established between the Seed of the Serpent and the Seed of the Woman, and of God's love towards fallen creatures. It does not take long and Genesis also tells us about the effect of sin: shame, murder, and evil intentions always, leading to the worldwide flood. Again, God demonstrates his goodness in new beginnings.

Rev. John VanRietschoten has prepared this Study Guide as a way to help Christians explore these beginnings. He does so with a pastoral heart, with careful study, and with many helpful questions. He guides users of this Study Guide to see Genesis in the context of the whole of scripture, but also, and somewhat uniquely, in the context of Israel's historical redemption from Egypt. He helps readers understand the original context while exploring the broader implications and applications. While the format of the book is unique, its insights, questions, and observations are well worth the effort for adult group bible studies to learn from.