Origins and narrative · 50 chapters
Genesis
God creates a good world, humanity rebels, and God begins a covenant family through Abraham. Follow the promise of land, descendants, and blessing through deeply imperfect people.
Historical & literary context
Traditionally associated with Moses; its composition is debated. Set in the ancient Near East, it introduces the ancestors of Israel before the exodus.
Introduction and study notes are commentary, not Scripture.
The shape of the book
- 1–11 · Creation, rebellion, and the nations
- 12–36 · Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
- 37–50 · Joseph and the family in Egypt
A passage to begin with
Genesis 12:1-3
1Then the LORD said to Abram, “Leave your country, your kindred, and your father’s household, and go to the land I will show you. 2I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you.”
Berean Standard Bible · Public domain
Read the full chapterThink it through
How does God preserve His promise despite human failure?