Session 1: Creation

Genesis 1-2

Salvation history starts with the book of Genesis. It's quite a long book with many key events, outlining Creation to the establishment of the Jewish forefathers and tribes.

In Session 1, we cover how God created the earth and man. Read a bible story to your child, or use a video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teu7BCZTgDs

Source: Saddleback Kids on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teu7BCZTgDs

Discussion:

What do you think the bible passage/video is about?

Was the world really created in 6 days?

The bible tells the story of creation in a poetic way (i.e. it's not meant to be scientific - therefore 6 days is a figurative rather than literal description)

What do you find most amazing about His creations? What does this tell you about God?

Open ended.

E.g. His awesome power. His love for order, beauty and goodness. How he provides for all living creatures. Etc.

In what way is man special?

Man is created in God's image and likeness. This does not mean that we look like Him! God is pure spirit. Created in God's image and likeness means that man has:

• intellect (ability to reason)

• free will

• capacity to love

• dominion over animals and earth

Why did God create both male and female?

God wanted man to have a helpmate and companion. Male and female are created together and are meant for one another. Genesis 2:24 tells us that "they [will] become one in marriage".

After 6 days of creation, God rests on the 7th day. How is this relevant for us today?

God creates and he rests. He blesses the day and makes it holy.

The Jews would be commanded not to work on the 7th day - this was known as the Sabbath law. For us today, this continues to be relevant. It is important that we set aside sabbath day, not for his sake but for ours:

1) For us to rest from work, for our physical, emotional and spiritual health.

2) To remove distractions from work, focus on God and worship him.

3) To spend time to strengthen our relationships with friends, family, loved ones and fellowmen (including those in need).

(Interesting side note: There are a few numbers which we repeatedly throughout the bible. One of them is the number 7 - which is the number of completion in the bible)