The Listener’s Commentary Introduction to Genesis
Oct 16, 2025
Explore the intriguing backstory of Genesis, from its traditional authorship by Moses to its historical setting during the Exodus. Delve into humanity's big questions about origins and purpose, answered through powerful narratives of creation, the fall, and the flood. Discover the structure of Genesis, divided into primeval history and patriarchal tales, showcasing God's promise to Abraham and the unfolding drama of Jacob and Joseph. Learn how to approach Genesis theologically, emphasizing its lessons on sin and divine promises.
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Genesis Tackles Big Human Questions
- Genesis addresses foundational human questions about origins, meaning, and why the world mixes beauty and disaster.
- John Whittaker frames Genesis as offering wisdom and answers to those deep existential questions.
Moses As Author And Rough Dating
- John Whittaker affirms the traditional view that Moses authored Genesis, possibly using earlier sources.
- He dates the writing around the Exodus period, roughly the 1400s BC.
Two Main Sections And Historical Setting
- Genesis 1–11 covers primeval history while 12–50 focuses on Abraham's family from about 2000–1700 BC.
- Whittaker situates Genesis' narrative across Mesopotamia, Canaan, and Egypt as its historical backdrop.
