There is something to be said about having faith like a child. And whilst over the 40-and-counting years that I have been a believer in Jesus as Lord and Saviour, encountering every sort of counter-argument, philosophy and zealous mockery, my faith has burned brighter through each hard conversation and every trial. And this is why we will begin at the very beginning, in Genesis.
But before we begin, I'd like to share portions of Chuck Missler's introduction to 'Learn the Bible in 24 Hours.'
His profound mind, razor-sharp intelligence, a sense of humour that is as unique as it is poignantly precious and his humble heart, make for such a scholarly Biblical expositor that, would the most ardent atheist take the time to listen to, turn their minds towards truth.
"We are about to embark on the ultimate literary adventure. And we hope that this excursion will result in a practical, strategic awareness of the entire Bible—a perspective from which you can navigate your own personal adventure that will enrich a lifetime and even more. It’s not just a fascinating read; it’s a participation that will determine your eternal destiny.
Although the Bible consists of 66 separate books penned by over 40 authors over a period of several thousand years, it is an integrated message system. Every passage, every word, every number and every place name is there for a reason. A skilful design pervades the whole.
We’ll discover that this ancient record anticipates the most modern discoveries of particle physics and cosmology, hyperspace and time [...] The field of particle physics has totally altered our conceptions of reality. Scientists now tell us that the universe is a digital simulation within a much larger reality and consists of at least ten dimensions.
There is only one Book on earth, only one Book in the history of mankind that can answer those cosmic questions and demonstrate its transcendence over time and space. It has the audacity to hang its credibility and authenticity on its record of recording history before it happens. Only one Book holds the key to your eternal destiny: the ultimate love story, written in blood on a wooden cross erected in Judea some two thousand years ago."
What is truly extraordinary about the book of Genesis?
Of course, we'll uncover all of these treasure in due time, but something that I only came to know in the last 10 years is that all the major doctrines in the Bible have their roots in the book of Genesis!
Sovereign election
Salvation
Justification by faith
The believer’s security
Separation
Disciplinary chastisement,
The Rapture of the Church
Divine incarnation
Death and resurrection
(and more!)
Many churches only teach the New Testament, neglecting the incredible foundation that the Old Testament provides, and which is literally full of Jesus!
"The New Testament is in the Old Testament concealed,
and the Old Testament is in the New Testament revealed."
And so, without further ado, let us begin exploring Genesis 1:1. See you there!
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