For advanced-level Bible training students studying the Book of Genesis, questions should challenge their understanding of theological concepts, historical context, literary analysis, and the application of Genesis in broader biblical theology. Here are some advanced-level questions:
Theological and Doctrinal Questions:
The Problem of Evil: How does the narrative of the Fall (Genesis 3) explain the origin of evil in the world? Discuss the theological implications of original sin and how this narrative has been understood by various Christian traditions (e.g., Augustine, Eastern Orthodox).
Covenant Theology: Analyze the Abrahamic covenant in Genesis 15 and 17. How do these covenants differ, and how do they set the foundation for the later covenants in the Bible? Discuss the continuity and discontinuity between the Abrahamic covenant and the New Covenant in Christ.
Election and Divine Sovereignty: How does the story of Jacob and Esau (Genesis 25-27) illustrate the themes of election and divine sovereignty? What are the implications of Paul’s use of this narrative in Romans 9 for understanding God’s sovereignty and human responsibility?
Theodicy in Genesis: How does the story of Joseph (Genesis 37-50) address the question of theodicy, or the problem of evil and suffering in the world? Discuss how this narrative contributes to the understanding of God’s providence and human free will.
Historical and Cultural Context:
Ancient Near Eastern Context: Compare the creation accounts in Genesis 1-2 with other Ancient Near Eastern creation myths (e.g., the Enuma Elish). How do similarities and differences illuminate the distinct theological message of Genesis?
Patriarchal Narratives and Historical Authenticity: Evaluate the historical evidence for the existence of the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) in light of archaeological findings and ancient Near Eastern texts. How should these narratives be understood in terms of history and theology?
The Significance of Names: In the patriarchal narratives, names often carry significant meanings (e.g., Abram to Abraham, Jacob to Israel). How do these name changes reflect broader theological themes in Genesis, such as identity, promise, and transformation?
Literary Analysis:
Literary Structure: Analyze the structure of Genesis, focusing on the toledot (“these are the generations of”) formula. How does this literary device shape the narrative and theological flow of the book?
Themes of Reversal: Discuss the theme of reversal in the Book of Genesis, such as the younger son being favored over the elder (e.g., Abel over Cain, Jacob over Esau, Joseph over his brothers). What does this motif suggest about God’s ways and purposes?
Symbolism in Genesis: Explore the symbolism of the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in Genesis 2-3. How do these symbols contribute to the broader biblical themes of life, knowledge, and divine-human relationship?
Application and Ethical Implications:
Genesis and Modern Science: How can the creation account in Genesis 1-2 be reconciled with modern scientific understanding of the origins of the universe and life (e.g., Big Bang theory, evolution)? What are the different interpretative approaches (e.g., literal, allegorical, theistic evolution), and what are their theological implications?
Ethical Lessons from Genesis: What ethical lessons can be drawn from the lives of the patriarchs, particularly in their failures and successes (e.g., Abraham’s deception in Egypt, Jacob’s deception of Isaac, Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers)? How can these lessons be applied to contemporary Christian life and leadership?
Genesis and Gender Relations: Analyze the roles and depictions of men and women in Genesis, particularly in the creation narratives and the stories of Sarah, Hagar, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel. How have these texts been used historically to shape gender roles, and how should they be understood in a modern context?
Integrative Questions:
Genesis and the New Testament: How does the New Testament reinterpret or fulfill the themes and promises found in Genesis, particularly the Abrahamic covenant, the concept of a promised seed, and the themes of blessing and curse?
Genesis in Biblical Theology: How does the Book of Genesis lay the groundwork for the entire biblical narrative? Discuss its role in introducing key theological themes such as creation, fall, redemption, and covenant, and how these themes are developed throughout the Bible.
These questions encourage students to engage deeply with the text, its interpretation, and its implications for theology and Christian life.
