Creation & Covenant: Genesis 1-3

The Way Out Reveals the Wisdom, Justice, and Mercy of God (Genesis 3:20-24)

March 3, 2024 • David Schrock • Genesis 1—3, Genesis 3:20–24

The Way of God: A Threefold Curse and Consolation (Gen. 3:14-19)

February 25, 2024 • David Schrock • Genesis 3:14–19

He Gets Us: Reimagining the Fallout of Adam and Eve's Sin (Gen. 3:7b-13)

February 18, 2024 • David Schrock • Genesis 3:7–13

Dear OBC Family, If I had to outline Genesis 3, it would fall under the following headings. Genesis 3:1–6: The Fall. Genesis 3:7–13: The Fallout. Genesis 3:14–24: The Way Out. In these three steps, we get a sense of what happens to the first man and woman. First, seeking to be wise, they became fools. They broke God’s law, ate of the fruit, and invited judgment. Yet, before death came, God came. He entered the garden to find the fallout of sin. And then, after questioning the couple, he pronounced a judgment.  That judgment led to Adam and Eve’s removal from the Garden. Yet, in that good judgment, the Lord God also pronounced good news. In Genesis 3:15 he declared that salvation was coming through the woman’s seed. Next week, we’ll see that promise in full. But this Sunday we must consider the fallout of Adam’s sin and Eve’s deception. And by looking square in the face of wreckage, it will reveal much about our own sin and its effects. Wonderfully, we can approach this Garden with the full knowledge of Jesus Christ. Yet, we still need to learn afresh how heinous sin is. And so, as you prepare for Sunday, pray for God to see our sin and to hate our sin. For truly, sin is the source of all death, despair, and destruction. And yet, because we are born in Adam, we do not hate sin—our sin!—as we ought. And that is our aim for Sunday. To prepare, go ahead and read Genesis 3. You may also find it helpful if you read Matthew 6, which will be connected to Genesis 3 on Sunday.  As the Lord allows, I hope to see you Sunday.  For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 3:7 – 13) What does 3:8 reveal about the fellowship with God that existed prior to sin? What does this text reveal about the effects of sin upon mankind’s relationship to God? Consider Adam and Eve’s response to their shame. What is the effect of their clothing? Does clothing allow them to walk with God? God knows all things. Consider then the significance God’s questions for Adam and Eve in verses 9, 10, and 13. Why does God ask questions? In what ways do we seek to hide because of our sin? What happens when we hide? What happens when our sin is exposed? Instead of taking responsibility for sin, consider the blaming that takes place. Who is blamed? Does blaming another remove one’s responsibility? Why or why not? How does God deal with our guilt and shame in the Gospel? What does the Bible teach us about clothing? (Consider how Scripture speaks about clothing from Genesis to Revelation). How ought we to respond to this text?

The Fall: From Wisdom That Grasps for Death, To Wisdom That Gives Eternal Life (Gen. 2:25-3:7a)

February 11, 2024 • David Schrock • Genesis 2:25—3:7

Dear OBC Family, Without a proper understanding of Genesis 3, it is impossible to understand the world and our place in it. Accordingly, we will take the next three weeks to examine this important chapter. Beginning with the Serpent entering the garden (v. 1), we will see what happens as Eve is deceived, Adam rebels, both hide, and God comes down to speak to his creation. Today, the very good world that God made is no longer good. It is now cursed, and it is cursed because of what happened in Genesis 3. And yet, in that cursing there is the promise of salvation—a son who will come from the woman to save the world and destroy the devil (Gen. 3:15). This first gospel promise sets in place the whole story of redemption. Before getting to the unfolding of that good news, however, we need to understand who the Serpent is, what the Serpent said, and why we should capitalize Serpent. Indeed, the woman and the man were not just approached by the most crafty beast, but as the rest of Scripture indicates, it was the devil himself who approached the pair and invited them to rebel. This Sunday, we will consider what the devil said and what that teaches us about the world. Even more, though, we will see what it means to be faithful to God as temptations to sin come. And what it means that Christ our Lord did not sin when he was tempted by the devil. So, to prepare, take time to read Genesis 3, Matthew 4:1–11, and Revelation 12. As you read, pray that God will help us to see Christ and the way he can save us from the schemes of the devil. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. For His Glory and your joy, Pastor David ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:25 – 3:7) Why is this text crucial for our understanding of the Bible and the doctrine of salvation? Why is eating from one specific tree a capital offense? What is deficient in our understanding if we minimizing the sin recorded in this text? Consider Adam’s role and responsibility in this situation. How does Scripture speak about Adam when it comes to the fall of mankind? Compare God’s directions about the trees in Genesis 2 with this conversation in Genesis 3. What differences do you notice? Why is this significant? What do we observe about the nature of temptation? How ought one to respond to the lies of Satan? Compare Gen 2:25 and 3:7. How does sin fundamentally change humanity? What are the consequences of the first sin? Consider the vastness of the implications of this passage. How does this text reveal our need for Christ? How should we respond to this text?

Of Weddings and Our Christian Witness (Gen. 2:18-25)

February 4, 2024 • David Schrock • Genesis 2:18–25

Getting More Than Red-Pilled: Seeing Christ in God's Good Creation (Gen. 2:18-25)

December 3, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 2:18–25

On Sunday we come to the last part of Genesis 2. Early this year, we spent some time in this section of Scripture when we looked at thehttps://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3a%2f%2fobc.us14.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3ddd23918991ea6f542a8065bed%26id%3d6aaa2db1e1%26e%3df5b57025e0&data=05%7c01%7c%7c93aee76ae66d4827213c08dbf2b6abfb%7c84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7c1%7c0%7c638370638626847744%7cunknown%7ctwfpbgzsb3d8eyjwijoimc4wljawmdailcjqijoiv2lumziilcjbtii6ik1hawwilcjxvci6mn0%3d%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=vzgys%2bfvuc0%2fkeksntrtd831jg%2fka5lixalrzmwempe%3d&reserved=01. In that series we considered the nature of humanity, male and female, marriage and more. In so many ways, the ethical problems of our day (e.g., transgenderism, so-called same sex marriage, abortion, the breakdown of the family, the rise of minor-attracted persons, etc.) pass through Genesis 2:18–25. Indeed, we could spend multiple weeks on these verses alone in order address the problems of our day. But instead of doing that, I would point you to https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3a%2f%2fobc.us14.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3ddd23918991ea6f542a8065bed%26id%3d01b6cf0a00%26e%3df5b57025e0&data=05%7c01%7c%7c93aee76ae66d4827213c08dbf2b6abfb%7c84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7c1%7c0%7c638370638626847744%7cunknown%7ctwfpbgzsb3d8eyjwijoimc4wljawmdailcjqijoiv2lumziilcjbtii6ik1hawwilcjxvci6mn0%3d%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=xo2ma2hdw0yf1s%2bp7fjpxzgkusuthau3nbegdnz9tie%3d&reserved=0, Michael Clary’s recent book https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3a%2f%2fobc.us14.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3ddd23918991ea6f542a8065bed%26id%3d4f682d65e5%26e%3df5b57025e0&data=05%7c01%7c%7c93aee76ae66d4827213c08dbf2b6abfb%7c84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7c1%7c0%7c638370638626847744%7cunknown%7ctwfpbgzsb3d8eyjwijoimc4wljawmdailcjqijoiv2lumziilcjbtii6ik1hawwilcjxvci6mn0%3d%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=epskhr7tukewiblu4ewxoi4dozplkcjuvv3%2brvtr%2bki%3d&reserved=0 (soon to be on the bookshelf), and Sunday’s sermon. This Sunday, we will see the goodness of God’s plan to make his image male and female and the goodness of bringing them together in marriage. To prepare for Sunday, read Genesis 1-2 and Ephesians 5:15–33. Then pray that God would give us ears to hear what his Word says. I am persuaded that all of us are inclined to resist what Genesis 2:18–25 says. The deck is stacked against us today, as every form of education and entertainment teach us to think of ourselves as autonomous and self-directed individuals. Yet, Genesis 2:18–25 teaches something else. So, by God’s grace, let us come to Scripture seeking to see what it says. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday and worshiping together our great triune God. For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David As a reminder, the Manassas Community Group will be in overflow this Sunday. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:18–25) What does this passage add to the creation story?  Who is the author / definer of marriage? What is the purpose of marriage? Consider Genesis 2:18. What does it mean that man’s aloneness is “not good”? How does this relate to God’s statement of creation being “very good” (1:31)?  What kind of help should be understood in 2:18? Who is called “helper”? Why does this matter? How should we understand the significance of man being formed first, and then woman being formed from man? This work of creation is different from all other creatures. Why? How does the creation of man and woman inform men and women today? What does the covenant between the man and woman tell us about men and women today? How does marriage point us to Christ and the church? Consider Ephesians 5. Consider Genesis 2:21-23 and John 19:34. What parallels do you observe between Adam and Christ? How do the moral imperatives of Ephesians 5:22-33 restore the pattern of marriage in creation? What does this passage teach singles? Married? Christians? Unbelievers?

Seeing the World with New Eyes (Gen 2:15-17)

November 26, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 2:15–17

On this Black Friday, I hope you are finding a few good deals and remembering God’s good news—that we who live in the land of ephemeral abundance are promised a great abundant life in Christ.   On Sunday, we will begin this season of Advent by seeing the way Genesis 2:15–17 explains the gospel to us. While salvation is promised to all those who truly believe on Christ, the Word of God says more. It explains to us how God the Son Incarnate can take the place of another in death, so that by union with him we have assurance of eternal life. Yet, understanding the logic gospel requires a basic knowledge of biblical covenants. And that is what Genesis 2 gives.   So far in Genesis 1–2, our focus has been on creation. Yet, this Sunday we will turn to the idea of covenant. Indeed, our salvation comes by way of Christ’s new covenant. But we can only understand how this covenant of grace “works” if we go back to the beginning to God’s covenant of works with Adam. To that end, we will begin this season of Advent in Genesis 2.   This Sunday we will look at Genesis 2:15–17. Next Sunday we will consider Genesis 2:18–25 before turning to Luke 1 for the rest of December.   To prepare for Sunday, pray for our gathering and read Genesis 2, as well as Romans 5. You may also find reading Numbers 3:1–13 helpful, as it provides the key to understanding the commands to Adam—"to work and keep" or “to serve and guard.” In all, we have much to celebrate this holiday season, and this begins by marveling at the way God makes and keeps covenants with sinners like us.   As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday.     For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David   Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:15–17) What is the main point of Genesis 2:15–17? How do we know that Adam is a priest? That Eden is a Sacred Garden? That these verses a covenant? What is a covenant?  Do you need to *understand* covenants to be saved? (Hint: no) Then why does understanding covenants matter? What is the covenant of works? (Also called the covenant with creation, or covenant with Adam) What is the relationship between creation and covenant? What is the relationship between covenant of works and the new covenant (covenant of grace)? How does understanding Genesis 1–2 in covenant terms help us understand the gospel? What else do we learn in Genesis 2:15–17 about God? Mankind? And God’s relationship with humanity? Has your reading of the Bible changed since beginning this series in Genesis? If so, how? What do you see now that, perhaps, you didn’t before? How do “new eyes” help you walk more carefully before the Lord?

From Dust to Life and Fruitfulness (Gen 2:4-14)

November 19, 2023 • Ben Purves • Genesis 2:4–14

We are dust. It’s not an inspiring reality, but it’s one that should humble us. We have come from the dust, and because of sin, we will return to the dust. The dust reminds us that we are mortal and our days our fleeting. Yet for all who are in Christ, we have great hope beyond the dust. The creation of Adam (Gen 2) points us forward to the resurrection of the second Adam (1 Cor 15), and the coming of the New Creation (Rev 21-22).  As we approach this Sunday, take some time to read Genesis 2:4-14 and consider what this text reveals about God and man, and think about how the words and themes introduced in this passage are threaded throughout the Scriptures. May the Lord bless our fellowship this Lord’s Day as we gather to worship Him! Blessings in Christ, Pastor Ben As a reminder, the Dale City Community Group will be in overflow this Sunday. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:4–14) How does Genesis 2:4–14 function in relationship to the Creation Week (Gen 1:1–2:3)? How is Genesis 2:4–14 organized? What should we notice when we read “LORD God” (YHWH Elohim) instead of “God” (Elohim)? What do you observe about God’s attributes and works in Genesis 2:4–14? Compare and contrast with creation and mankind. What is unique to the antediluvian (pre-Flood) world? How is the creation of man unique from the creation of everything else? Consider the significance of dust throughout the Scriptures. What are practical implications of being of the dust, and returning to the dust? How does man receive life? What is significant about this? How is this theme threaded throughout the Scriptures? What might be observed about the rivers, gold, and precious stones mentioned in Genesis 2? Compare and contrast with the Tabernacle, Temple, and New Creation. How ought we to respond to this text?

The Seventh Day: A Sign Beckoning You To God's Rest (Gen 2:1-3)

November 12, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 2:1–3

On Sunday, we come to the Lord’s Day, a day that many have termed the Christian Sabbath. Going back to the time of Constantine, the Sabbath has been treated as a day of physical rest. In fact, our own country established it as day of rest, complete with blue laws, to honor the Sabbath and keep it holy. Yet, is that what Genesis 2:1–3 means when God says that he blessed the seventh day and made it holy? On Sunday, we are going to consider those very things. In Genesis, the seventh day should be something assigned to the opening prologue (Genesis 1:1–31). As Genesis goes, the book of the generations of the heavens and the earth begins in Genesis 2:4 and goes through Genesis 4:26. In Genesis, the whole book is built around ten statements of the generations. But before that Genesis 1:1–2:3 is a section that introduces the whole of creation in seven days.  As I will try to show on Sunday, man was created on Day 6 *for* Day 7. That means that Day 6 was not the pinnacle of creation, Day 7 was. But what was Day 7 for? That is what we will consider on Sunday as we consider how this final day of the creation week culminated God’s very good creation. Even more, we will see how this day promises rest for all those who find Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Sabbath.  Truly, if you are feeling weary and heavy laden, if the burdens of life and sin are plaguing you, this message about God’s gift of rest is something you will want to hear. To prepare for Sunday, take time to Read Genesis 1:1–2:4. But also read Psalm 92 and Hebrews 4 and pray that the Lord would give you rest in Christ, who is bringing new creation glory to all those who are being remade in his image. This is what holiness looks like and it is something we will consider in detail on Sunday. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you this Lord’s Day. For His Glory and your joy in Jesus, Pastor David As a reminder, the County Center Community Group is in our overflow downstairs this Sunday. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:1-3) Discussion Questions for Genesis 2:1–3 1. How do these verses connect to Genesis 1:1–31 and what comes next in Genesis 2:4 and following? 2. What is unique about this passage? What are the key ideas expressed in the passage? 3. Are there any commands in this passage? Any direction for keeping Sabbath as a weekly pattern? 4. What does it mean that God rested? How does this day of rest relate to the other six days of creation? 5. What does it mean that he blessed this day and made it holy? 6. How does a comparison of this passage to other uses of the word ‘holy’ inform the meaning of this day? 7. How did the Sabbath operate in Israel? Did Jesus change that weekly pattern? How? See Matthew 11:28–12:6. 8. What does it mean to find rest today? How does the Sabbath relate to the temple and to the church? 9. Where can you find rest today? What does that actually look like? 10. How does Genesis 2:1–3 make you long for heaven?

Beholding the Glory of God: How God Makes a Very Good Day Better (Gen 1:24-31)

November 5, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 1:24–31

This Sunday we come to the sixth day of the creation week as God fills the earth with life. This text is foundational for understanding who we are as human beings, and for understanding the role God has given to mankind on the earth. We will consider the significance of being created in the image of God, and how this sets humanity apart from all other creatures. In addition, as we see the first Adam’s dominion over the earth, and how this points us forward to the glory of the second Adam. In preparation for worship this Sunday, I invite you to read Genesis 1:24-31 and our https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3a%2f%2fobc.us14.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3ddd23918991ea6f542a8065bed%26id%3d9ac2a1c5b6%26e%3df5b57025e0&data=05%7c01%7c%7cfeb93e8a25984ef8624508dbdcc8f1ac%7c84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7c1%7c0%7c638346527842448169%7cunknown%7ctwfpbgzsb3d8eyjwijoimc4wljawmdailcjqijoiv2lumziilcjbtii6ik1hawwilcjxvci6mn0%3d%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=at%2fdtzj7tjakwwzncpboolacxq3klxpxmc8bxqu156y%3d&reserved=0. Our doctrines of creation, race and ethnicity, the sanctity of life, gender, marriage, sexuality, and family are all undergirded by this foundational text in Genesis 1. In addition, we also invite you to pray for our Men’s Retreat as we are currently retreating with the men of Arlington Baptist and Jefferson Park Baptist at Rapidan Baptist Camp. Pray that the Lord would bless our fellowship with one another and our time in 2 Peter. We will return on Saturday afternoon, and I look forward to our whole church family being together this Lord's Day. For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 1:24-31) What does Genesis 1:24-31 reveal about God as Creator? Read through Genesis 1:24-31 and Section II (the doctrine of man) in our Statement of Faith. What doctrines are undergirded by Genesis 1:24-31? What is the image of God? What is the significance of the image of God?  What are the ethical implications of bearing the divine image? Consider the commands of verse 28. What is the purpose of these commands? What does the presence of work in creation reveal about the role of mankind in the world before the fall? As descendants of Adam, what is our relationship to the commands given to Adam in Genesis 1? How does God order relationships between mankind, creatures, and the earth? What is the purpose of God's Creation? How does the first Adam lead us to the second Adam? Consider Psalm 8, Romans 5:12-14; and 1 Corinthians 15. What parallels and contrasts do you observe between Genesis 1 and Revelation 21-22?

From Dinosaurs to the Day of Judgment: How the Fifth Day Promises Satan's Last Day (Gen 1:20-23)

October 29, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 1:20–23

Sermon Introduction Dinosaurs. Dragons. Demons. And the Day of Judgment. On the fifth day of creation, all of these biblical—yes, biblical—realities come into view. As we will see on Sunday, God made a world filled with creatures in the sea, in the air, and on the land. This he established so that his world would be filled with life and lessons for creatures made in his image (humans). Yet, in the creation week, we have not arrived at the formation of mankind. That will come in Day 6. For now, on Day 5, we need to know something of the world God was preparing for his people. And this world includes giant sea creatures (Leviathan) and dinosaurs (Behemoth). In our day, a child’s interest in Dinosaurs is often the gateway to believing that the world is millions or billions of years old. And some will say that the world as we see it points towards such large numbers, or even that God has “deceived” mankind with the apparent age built into the universe. Yet, all such charges of deception evaporate when we remember that God wrote a book that tells of his creation. God has not deceived us by things that he has made. Rather, seeking to be wise ourselves, we are enslaved to the deceiver until God rescues us. At the same time, God does not owe sinful humanity an explanation of the creation that we have bowed to worship (Romans 1:18–32). Yet, God has made a way of light, for those who are willing to turn away from their own lights. God's mercies to sinful humanity begin with the way he gave us Genesis 1, with its revelation of creation. And this Sunday, we will look at Genesis 1:20–23 which brings us up close and personal to all that Scripture says about the great beasts we call dinosaurs. Equally, as we trace the storyline of Scripture, we will discover how God is going to defeat the beasts of the earth, especially that most crafty, twisting serpent, the devil. To prepare for Sunday, take time to read Genesis 1 with Job 40–41, as well as Isaiah 27. We will spend time in each chapter this Sunday, as we consider the ways in which God made the world good, and how he is now making a fallen world good again. As we have seen throughout Genesis 1, God’s first creation points to his new creation in Christ.  Let’s pray that our Lord would give us insight into his Word and his world, as we gather on Sunday. I will look forward to seeing you, as the Lord allows. For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:20 – 23 What does the creation of life in all parts of the earth reveal about God? What does the nature of plants and animals teach us about God? His Word, the Bible? Mankind? How do you look at animals? Through the lens of science (dissecting) or Scripture (didactic)? What does the command “be fruitful and multiply” tell us about the world God has made? How does that compare to our current ’talking heads’? Where are three places that God ‘created' (Heb. Bara) found in Genesis 1? And what does this word tell us? How does the rest of Scripture inform our understanding of the great sea creatures (tannin)? How do Psalm 104:24–26 and Isaiah 27:1 help us read Genesis 1:20–23? How does Job 41 speak of the Leviathan? What do we learn about God’s creation here? What promise does Isaiah 27 make for us? How does it connect creation to new creation? What does the fifth day of creation reveal to us about God’s new creation in Christ?

Lights Will Guide You Home: How the Fourth Day of in Creation Fixes Our Eyes On Christ's Ascension (

October 22, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 1:14–19

Christ rose from the dead on the third day, according to the Scriptures. But according to the Scriptures, what happened on the “fourth day”? On Sunday, we are going to take up that question and look at Genesis 1:14–19, which tells us that the lights in the heavens were made on the fourth day. And taking our cues from the rest of the Bible, we are going to see what this day of creation tells us about the world and the One who made the world.  Indeed, as the world shakes around us, we need to see that God rules over all things. On Day 4, he created the greater and lesser lights to rule the day and the night. And we need to see how the Creator of light is also the Ruler of rulers. Indeed, this is evident in Genesis 1, but in the fulness of time it is even more apparent as we behold Christ seated at God’s right hand. Indeed, as I will argue, the fourth day leads us to see Christ’s ascension and rule over all creation.  Yet, to understand how that works, we will need to look carefully at Genesis 1, as well as the books of Isaiah, Joel, Luke and Acts. To prepare for Sunday, take time to pray for God to shine his light on us. Read Genesis 1and if you have time, read Genesis 37, Isaiah 13, and Joel 2. Keep an eye out for the sun, moon, and stars, and ask––how does Genesis 1 inform the rest of redemptive history? This Sunday we will consider that very point. As the Lord allows, I look forward to worshiping God with you on Sunday. It was a joy to bring greetings to Arlington Baptist Church last week, but it will be better to be home again. I hope to see you at OBC on Sunday.  For His Glory and your joy in Jesus, Pastor David -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:14–19 How does Day 4 (Gen. 1:14–19) fit with the rest of Genesis 1? What is the relationship between God’s light, the light in the heavens, and the lights created on Day 4? What are the lights on Day 4 for?  Have you noticed their purpose before? How many things do we overlook in Scripture? Is there any significance to the fact that the sun, moon, and stars are not mentioned in Genesis 1:14–19? How might this reinforce our understanding of the world before the Flood? Where do we see the lights of heaven mentioned in Scripture? Think: Genesis 15:5; 37:5–11.  How do the Prophets speak of the sun, moon, and stars? (See Isaiah 13:9–13; Ezekiel 32:7–8; Joel 2:28–32). How does Genesis 1 help us understand those passages? What is the connection between Day 4 and Jesus? (See Malachi 4:2; Mark 13:24–25; Luke 21:24–26; Hebrews 12:26). If Day 3 is tied to the resurrection, and Day 4 is related to Christ's ascension (see Acts 2), what comes next for Christ? What comes next for the new creation? (Lord willing, we will see this next week). How does knowing that Christ is ruling over all powers and principalities cause you to stand? How does his Lordship over the nations encourage you today? What is the hope for the Christian? (See Daniel 12:1-3; Philippians 2:15).

Guest Preacher Mike Law: Genesis 22

October 15, 2023 • Mike Law • Genesis 22

For the last week, OBC has hosted the Simeon Trust workshop. And during that time close to a dozen OBC members taught, led small groups, learned, ran sound, prepared food, cleaned up trash, and blessed men from close to 20 churches across Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Illinois, and Florida. In short, the work done at OBC this week to study the book of 2 Timothy and to help current and future pastors will bear fruit both now and for generations, even for eternity. So, thank you for all who served, who prayed, and who encouraged the work going on. It was a true joy! And one of the abiding joys is that Sunday we get to hear from one of the participants of the week, Mike Law. We have often mentioned Mike, his church, and his labors in the Southern Baptist Convention. He is the pastor, from Arlington Baptist Church, who initiated a resolution to help the SBC hold fast to the Bible and its statement of faith (The Baptist Faith and Message 2000) and to only have qualified men serving as pastors in the SBC. This is our conviction too and we have,https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3a%2f%2fobc.us14.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3ddd23918991ea6f542a8065bed%26id%3d3b6ec45c31%26e%3df5b57025e0&data=05%7c01%7c%7c012b944f47b742e484d408dbcc2d2c9f%7c84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7c1%7c0%7c638328266636529442%7cunknown%7ctwfpbgzsb3d8eyjwijoimc4wljawmdailcjqijoiv2lumziilcjbtii6ik1hawwilcjxvci6mn0%3d%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=9mmcqdr2gk%2fuwx2ucreeeugvfier35s15l0poqtnnne%3d&reserved=0, sought to help stand for biblical faith and practice in the SBC. All of this serves as background for Mike Law joining us on Sunday to bring a message from Genesis 22. Like our church, ABC has been going through the book of Genesis—though, they are at nearing the end. For us, Pastor Mike is going to encourage us and challenge us with a word from the story of God providing a lamb to save the life of Isaac.  To prepare for Sunday, read Genesis 22 and Hebrews 11 which reflects on this passage. Then, pray for Mike as he comes and preaches and for me as I go to Arlington Baptist Church to bring a message of resurrection hope from Genesis 1. The Lord has been very gracious to us. In many places, the people of God go hungry for God’s Word. But this week I was reminded, and am reminding all of us, how good God has been to plant us in a place where the Word of God is bountiful. May we eat and be full, so that we might be conformed into the image of Christ, who is the Bread of Life. Additionally, pray for the youth who are at camp this weekend. May the preachers and teachers there equip our teens with truth about what God says about humanity, manhood, womanhood, and everything related to these important subjects. I am praying for OBC this Sunday and I look forward, Lord willing, to joining you again next Sunday. Until then be sure to welcome Mike Law and pray for him as he brings the Word to our family of believers. For God’s Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David As a reminder, the Bristow Community group is in our overflow downstairs this Sunday. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 22   What does the “after these things” in Genesis 22:1 refer to? How does it point back to God’s faithfulness with what came before? What is the connection between God’s command for Abraham to go in Genesis 22:2 and God’s command to Abraham in Genesis 12:1? How does this connection encourage Abraham to trust God? Why is God testing Abraham?  Considering Genesis 22:3-5, Genesis 15:5, and James 2:18-22, how does faith respond to God’s commands?  What language is repeated in Genesis 22:6 and 8? What is the point of slowing down the narrative at this point? What does Abraham believe God will do? Considering Genesis 22:9-10, and Hebrews 11:17-19, what does faith believe God is able to do? What day did this take place on (see Genesis 22:4)? Considering Genesis 22:11-12 what does it mean to fear God? How does Abraham demonstrate his fear of God? Read Genesis 22:13-14. What is substitution? Where does faith finally rest?  How does Isaac point forward to Jesus? How does he fall short? How does all of this connect to Romans 8:32 How does the ram point forward to Jesus? How is this related to the teaching we find in Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 5:21, and 1 John 4:10? In light of Genesis 22:15-19, what does faith believe about God and his promises? What is the purpose of the list of names in Genesis 22:20-24? How is it linked to what went before and what comes after? How ought we to respond to these truths? How have you been encouraged or challenged by Genesis 22? How would you share the gospel of Jesus Christ from this passage with an unbelieving friend? What can you pray for from this passage?

Life on the Third Day: A Pattern in Creation That Points to the Resurrection (Gen 1:9-13)

October 8, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 1:9–13

For those who are wondering: I am not a flat-earther. After last week’s sermon, one precocious church member asked if a three-story reading of Genesis 1 suggests a flat earth. In a word, my answer is “no.” (Although, I may say something about the relative flatness of the Dry Land in Gen. 1:10). Understanding the world as God’s cosmic temple does not replace scientific inquiry or oppose a heliocentric view of the cosmos. Rather, it gives us a sacred understanding of this world and how our planet, which hangs on nothing in space and orbits the sun each year, is more than a natural product of chance. Earth, as we know it, is the place that God made for humanity to live, so that God can dwell with us. In that way, it is a cosmic temple (see Psalm 104). By nature, we can observe, study, and make hypotheses about his creation. But before that, we must know something about why God made the world. The why is never found in nature alone and can only be found in God’s revelation. And that is why we let Scripture speak to us about creation. This Sunday, we take one more step to see how God made the Land and the Sea, and how this third day creation will play a role in redemptive history. Indeed, the third day not only tells us something about creation. It also prepares for the new creation and the resurrection of Christ on the third day.  So to prepare for Sunday take time to read Genesis 1, as well as, 1 Corinthians 15. Together, these two texts will help us to see what God made in the beginning and how it prepares the way for the end (Isa. 46:10). As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you Sunday and to marveling at the God who made plans for his new creation even from the beginning. For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:9–13 1. What are the main features of Genesis 1:9–13?  2. How do the events of Day 3 compare to Days 1 and 2? What is the same? What is different? 3. How may the original creation be similar to / different from the world after the flood? How can we know? 4. What does the planting of grains and fruit trees without the sun mean for creation? 5. How does understanding the events of Day 3 compare to the rest of the Bible, especially redemptive history? 6. How do later parts of Scripture speak of the Third Day? How does Paul connect resurrection to the third day / new creation? 7. What do we learn about God and the Bible by reading Day 3 in light of the New Creation? 8. What else does Genesis 1:9–13 teach us about God’s creation and plan for salvation?

Heaven is For Real: A Three Story View of Heaven, The Heavens, and the Earth (Gen 1:6-8)

October 1, 2023 • David Schrock • Genesis 1:6–8

Heaven is a place like earth. Have you heard that (sung) before? In some ways, it is exactly right. God made man for the earth, and one day, when death is dead and sin is no more, he will remake the heavens and the earth, so that we spend eternity with him on a glorified earth. At the same time, earth is a place like heaven. Or it should be. God made the world to reflect the glory of heaven, and redemptive history was always aimed to bring God’s image bearers into his heavenly presence. Think Moses, Isaiah, and Paul. Each of them were given visions of heaven—a reflection of what is to come! In Christ, a man would finally come into God’s heavenly throne room. And more incredible: He would stay!  Going back to the beginning, God had always came down from heaven to the earth. But finally, in Christ, God raised a man—the God-man—into his presence when he ascended in Acts 1:9-11. Indeed, the whole Bible tells a story of heaven and earth. And this Sunday we are going to begin to look at that story as we study Genesis 1:6–8. In these three verses, we find the separation of heaven and earth, a separation that sets the context for the story of joining heaven and earth in Christ. Indeed, this is what we will see on Sunday. To prepare for this message, take time to read Genesis 1:6–8 and then think about all the places in Scripture where heaven is discussed. Consider what the heavens look like and spend time in Job 36–37 reading about what God says about his heavens. Too often we ignore God’s testimony about the heavens we see, and on Sunday we are, by God’s grace, going to learn about what God says about the heavens that stand above our heads and under God’s feet. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. For His Glory and your joy in Christ, Pastor David ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:6–8 What is heaven? And where is it?  What is the difference between heaven (where God dwells) and the heavens (what we see)? Is the word different, or the idea? What is the relationship between God’s heaven and the heavens above us? Cf. Jeremiah 10:11-13; Isaiah 40:21-23; Psalm 102:25–27; Psalm 104:1–5; Job 37:1–14. How do these passages change the way you think of heaven and the heavens? Could you explain how the cosmos is a three-story house? Where does Scripture explain this? What is the relationship between heaven, the temple, and the cloud? Where do we see the cloud of God coming to earth? What do the clouds represent? How does understanding the glory of heaven inform your understanding of the world? How does a proper understanding of heaven and the heavens inform scientific inquiry? What does the creation of the heavens do in the story of salvation? What does this study of Genesis 1:6–8 teach us about God? About the Bible? About how to see the world God has made?