Genesis 1-3
Background of Genesis
- The first book of the Bible
- Moses is traditionally considered the initial author
- Was written around 1,000 BC about time periods starting about 2,000 BC
- Compiled into a book centuries later
- Genesis means “beginning”
- Divided into two parts: Chapters 1-11 deal with the creation of the world and about the very early human race. Chapters 12-50 deal with three great patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob who were the ancestors of the Hebrew people.
What Catholics must believe about Genesis 1-3
1. God created all things at the beginning of time
2. There was a special creation of man
3. Formation of the first woman was from man
4. There is a unity of the human race
5. There was original happiness of our first parents before the Fall
6. There was a divine command placed on man to prove his obedience
7. There was a transgression of that command at the instigation of Satan
8. There was a fall of the first parents from the state of innocence
9. There was a promise of a future redeemer
| Six Days of Creation | Structure (Form) |
| Gen. 1:3-5 - First day | Day, night |
| Gen. 1:6-8 - Second day | Sky, sea |
| Gen. 1:9-13 - Third day | Land, vegetation |
| Rulers | |
| Gen. 1:14-19 - Fourth day | Sun, moon |
| Gen. 1:20-23 - Fifth day | Birds, fish |
| Gen. 1:24-31 - Sixth day | Man, beasts |
Creation means making something out of nothing.
What a covenant is
Covenants are not the same as contracts – they are sacred family bonds, sealed in God’s name by oaths. Because they are sealed in God’s name, oaths invoke blessings and curses.
Gen. 3:15 - The First Gospel or first announcement of “Good News” to mankind that God would restore His family back to Him.