Institute of the Living Light

Understanding Creation and Redemption: Genesis and John Insights

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Outline for a Bible Study Class: Exploring Creation and Jesus in Genesis 1–3 and John 1–3

1. Introduction (10 Minutes)

  • Opening Prayer: Invite God’s guidance in studying His Word.
  • Objective: To understand the parallels and contrasts between the creation narrative in Genesis and the introduction of Jesus in John.
  • Overview: Highlight the themes of creation, life, light, sin, and redemption in both passages.

2. Genesis 1–3: Creation and the Fall (20 Minutes)

  • Read Key Passages:
    • Genesis 1:1–31: God creates the heavens, the earth, and all life.
    • Genesis 2:7–9, 15–25: Creation of humanity and the garden.
    • Genesis 3:1–24: The fall of man and its consequences.
  • Discussion Points:
    • God as Creator: His power and intentionality in creation.
    • The Role of Light: “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3).
    • Humanity’s Unique Role: Made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27).
    • The Fall: Introduction of sin and separation from God.

3. John 1–3: Jesus as the Source of Life and Light (20 Minutes)

  • Read Key Passages:
    • John 1:1–14: Jesus as the Word and the Light of the world.
    • John 2:1–11: Jesus’ first miracle at Cana.
    • John 3:1–21: Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus and the message of salvation.
  • Discussion Points:
    • Jesus as the Word: Pre-existent with God and central to creation (John 1:1–3).
    • Jesus as the Light: The Light that overcomes darkness (John 1:4–5).
    • Salvation through Jesus: Contrast to the fall in Genesis.

4. Compare and Contrast Genesis 1–3 and John 1–3 (15 Minutes)

  • Creation vs. New Creation:
    • Genesis 1–3: Physical creation; fall of humanity.
    • John 1–3: Spiritual renewal and redemption through Jesus.
  • Role of Light:
    • Genesis: Physical light separating day from night.
    • John: Jesus as the spiritual Light overcoming darkness.
  • Life:
    • Genesis: Humanity formed from dust, given breath of life.
    • John: Jesus as the giver of eternal life (John 3:16).
  • Sin and Redemption:
    • Genesis: Sin entering the world through Adam and Eve.
    • John: Jesus as the answer to sin, offering salvation.
  • Presence of God:
    • Genesis: God walking in the garden.
    • John: God dwelling among us through Jesus (John 1:14).

5. Group Activity: Reflect and Respond (10 Minutes)

  • Divide participants into small groups and ask:
    • How does Jesus fulfill the purpose of creation as described in Genesis?
    • In what ways does understanding these connections impact your faith?
  • Share insights as a group.

6. Closing Reflection and Prayer (5 Minutes)

  • Reflect on God’s consistent plan from creation to redemption.
  • Offer thanks for the gift of life, light, and salvation in Jesus.
  • Closing Prayer: Commit to walking in the light of Christ.

Materials Needed:

  • Bibles or printed copies of Genesis 1–3 and John 1–3.
  • Whiteboard or flip chart for notes.
  • Handouts with key verses and discussion questions.

This outline will encourage participants to see the unity of Scripture and the centrality of Jesus in God’s plan for creation and redemption.

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