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 5th November 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

In chapter 12, Abram took matters into his own hands, and now that results in an opportunity for Sarai to do the same. Instead of trusting God’s promises, she suggests, and they both agree to take the world’s route to solving her infertility, and are left with consequences they can’t undo. In this there is such warning for us, that in all our decisions we need to seek God’s will, and not follow our own inclination or the suggestions of the world around us.

Application question

• Are you trusting God, or taking matters into your own hands?