The Gospel in Genesis (1996)

Michael Riley

Mid-Atlantic Christadelphian Bible School (1996)

This series explores the book of Genesis as a foundation for the gospel message, showing how the earliest events and people in scripture point forward to the work of God’s son. From creation to the patriarchs, and from the fall in Eden to the rise of Joseph in Egypt, Genesis is shown not simply as history, but as a living witness of God’s plan of salvation. Each class uncovers types, shadows, and promises that reveal the hope of the kingdom and the purpose centered in Christ.

Class 1: Early Days

The series begins with creation itself, where the light that shone before the sun was formed is revealed as a symbol of the true light to come in christ. God’s creative work is seen as both literal and prophetic, foreshadowing a new creation through his son. These opening chapters establish the pattern of separation, order, and hope, reminding us that God’s purpose has always been centered in the redeemer.

Class 2: The Seed of the Woman

Attention then turns to the promise in Eden after the fall. Though Adam and Eve sinned, God gave hope of a seed who would crush the serpent’s power. The lesson emphasizes how the pattern of redemption was introduced right at the beginning, with the seed promised through the woman by the power of God. This promise becomes the foundation for all later covenants and the hope of salvation.

Class 3: The Only Begotten Son

Abraham’s life is explored as a picture of the gospel, with the promise of a son given in circumstances that seemed humanly impossible. From Abraham’s battle to rescue Lot, to the blessing of Melchizedek with bread and wine, the gospel was preached in advance through these events. Isaac, the child of promise, is revealed as a powerful type of christ, showing that God’s word is always sure.

Class 4: The Time of Jacob’s Trouble

This class traces the lives of Isaac, Jacob, and their families, focusing on the trials and conflicts that shaped the people of God. From Isaac’s quiet perseverance to Jacob’s struggles and family divisions, we see how God’s purpose continues despite human weakness. The lessons drawn highlight faith under pressure, the role of promise, and the assurance that God works through difficulty to fulfill his plan.

Class 5: The Man Sent Before to Preserve Life

The story of Joseph is presented as one of the clearest foreshadowings of christ. Hated by his brothers, sold, yet raised up to preserve life, Joseph becomes a shepherd, priest, and prophet figure. His dreams, sufferings, and eventual exaltation point forward to the greater savior who would be rejected yet appointed to bring salvation for his people.

Class 6: Lord of All Egypt

The series concludes with Joseph’s exaltation in Egypt, where he is given authority, a new name, and a bride from among the Gentiles. In Joseph’s story we see the risen christ, raised from the prison house of death to rule with power and to provide bread for the world. The faithful are reminded that the same God who preserved life through Joseph will complete his purpose in the coming kingdom.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.


Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech.

Isaiah 28:23 (ESV)