The Gospel in Genesis (2000)

This series traces the message of the gospel as it unfolds in the earliest pages of scripture. By exploring creation, the patriarchs, and the lives of Jacob and Joseph, we see how Genesis lays the foundation for God’s plan in Christ. These classes uncover how types, promises, and patterns in Genesis reveal the hope of resurrection, the calling of a bride, and the assurance of salvation through God’s chosen redeemer.

Class 1: Early Days

The opening class explores Genesis 1 as a blueprint for God’s purpose. The literal acts of creation are shown to foreshadow the greater spiritual creation in christ, beginning with light shining in darkness. From the separation of waters in Noah’s flood to the promise of seed to Abraham, the patterns of Genesis reveal the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan through the ages.

Class 2: Melchizedek

Attention then turns to Melchizedek, king of righteousness and king of peace, who blessed Abraham and received tithes from him. This mysterious figure points forward to christ, the eternal high priest who offers bread and wine. The lesson highlights the law of first mention, showing how God established the principle of sacrificial love and resurrection hope in Abraham’s offering of Isaac.

Class 3: Choosing the Bride

The theme of the bride is traced from Adam and Eve to the calling of Rebekah for Isaac. Just as Adam’s bride was taken from his side as he slept, so christ’s bride comes forth through his sacrifice. Genesis 2 and 24 reveal how God is building a bride suitable for his son—energized and made ready through the word of God, separated from the nations, and destined to walk at his side in glory.

Class 4: Jacob and Esau

The rivalry of Jacob and Esau is considered in light of God’s promises and later prophecies. Jacob, who desired the birthright, represents those who long for God’s covenant blessings, while Esau shows the danger of despising spiritual things. The conflict between the two brothers echoes through scripture and points forward to the final resolution when God’s people will be vindicated over their enemies.

Class 5: The Man Sent Before to Preserve Life

Joseph’s life is presented as one of the clearest foreshadowings of Christ. Rejected by his brothers, sold into slavery, and made to suffer, Joseph was nevertheless raised up to preserve life in time of famine. His trials reveal the hand of God shaping a savior for his family, reflecting the greater salvation brought through Christ, the good shepherd and the true man sent before us.

Class 6: Lord of All Egypt

The series concludes with Joseph exalted to power in Egypt, given authority, a new name, and a bride. His rise from the prison house to rulership mirrors Christ’s resurrection and exaltation, providing bread for the nations. Joseph’s story brings together themes of suffering, deliverance, and glory, reminding us that God’s purpose in Christ will bring life and blessing to all who trust in him.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.