Why was Genesis understood as so central to the teachings of the Reformers? Does it remain central in the same ways today?
What does “literal” interpretation mean? What parts of Genesis created a challenge for reformers who were trying to find literal interpretations?
Is Luther’s method of reading the Hebrew Bible texts as being about Christ necessary or sufficient? What are the implications?
Applying the Text:
How central is Genesis to your understanding of other parts of the Bible? Imagine reading one of the four gospels having never read Genesis. What would this change for you?
If you were to study Genesis exclusively through the lens of the reformers, what might be different? What would you gain or lose from this approach?
How important is Genesis to your experience of the Bible? How does it shape your personal beliefs?