This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Genesis, the 1st book in the Bible. Taught by our pastor, Simeon Forder, at our Sunday morning service on the 1st October 2023.

About this book

Genesis is the first book in the Bible, and in its more than 1500 verses, there are over 50 prophecies, 100+ commands, over 70 promises, and almost 100 distinct messages from God. As well as recording the firsts of so many things — including the first marriage, sin, child, murder, death, laughs, tears — this book also explains God’s established order in all things; from creation to Israel, marriage to tithing, and all before the law is even mentioned. But ultimately, this book points to Jesus as our Saviour, not only in obvious ways, but in its smaller details too.

About this study

As the world begins to be repopulated by Noah’s sons and their wives, we see that it doesn’t take long for them to rebel. And under the leadership of Nimrod, the people on earth gather together and build the tower of Babel. As this passage unfolds, we ultimately see that Nimrod is trying to build his own kingdom, making his own name great. And that is a great contrast to Abram who follows in chapter 12. The question is, are we trying to build our own kingdom, or seeking God’s kingdom first?

Application questions

• Are your more interested in making a name for yourself, or seeing God’s name praised?
• What is most important to you — this life, or eternity in heaven?
• How are your answers to those questions showing up in your life?