The Beginning

Scott Risley
John 1:1-2

The whole story of the Bible starts with the creation of the universe. Through the account of how God creates the universe, we see that God is eternal, all-powerful, personal, decisive, and over and above the natural order.

The Creation Narrative

Dennis McCallum
Genesis 1:1-8

The creation narrative is often understood through one of the following models: theistic evolution, progressive creationism, or mature creationism. The strengths and weaknesses of these models are assessed by considering abiogenesis, irreducible complexity, and the fossil record. The possibility of progressive creationism is considered in the form of the day-age theory, days representative theory, and gap theory. Ultimately, the Bible harmonizes with findings of science.

Galatian Tribulations

Scott Risley
Acts 13:38-14:28

After watching Paul and Barnabas heal a crippled man, the crowds attempt to worship them as gods. Paul responds by telling them about the one true God and how He has given us evidence of Himself in His creation. Additional evidence for God in creation is discussed, as well as evidence from our minds: we can think, we have a sense of right and wrong, we can make choices and we long for meaning, purpose, and love. Historical evidence is also presented for Paul and Barnabus's travels to Lystra, Lycaonia, and Derbe.

Marks of the Creator Hidden in Creation

Conrad Hilario
Romans 1:19-20

God has left us evidence of Himself in the universe. We look at evidence from science supporting a design to creation.

The Fall (Part 2): Fallout from the Fall

Jim Leffel
Genesis 3:7-24

With the fall of Adam and Eve, the human condition changes. Alienation enters humanity: alienation within, alienation from God, and alienation from other people. Paradise is lost, but God has an amazing plan for redemption.

The Fall (Part 1): The Heart of the Problem

Jim Leffel
1 John 2:15-16

How do we understand and deal with evil? Adam and Eve's fall stemmed from an assault on God's character, their prideful autonomy, and the erroneous belief that satisfying their desires would lead to fulfillment.

Creation and the Uniqueness of Humanity

Jim Leffel
Genesis 1:1-2:7

Part 3 of the Creation account is presented from Genesis 1 and 2. God created man in His own image. So what does it mean to be a human? Humans are unique because of their morality, spirituality, freedom, rationality, and sexuality.

Creation in 21st Century Perspective

Jim Leffel
Genesis 1:1-31

How does the biblical creation account fit with our modern scientific understanding? In our modern thinking, science and theology are divorced from one another. However, the Bible is not at cross-purposes with the work of science. Modern science affirms the Bible's description of nature as an orderly system, excessive to reason, understandable, and not random chaos.

Creation in Ancient Near East Context

Jim Leffel
Genesis 1:1-31

The creation account in the Bible offers a different perspective than most other ancient religions and mythologies. God is transcendent over nature, rather than a deity made up of nature. The creation account deals with linear history moving towards a goal, rather than cyclical mythology. Human beings are made with dignity in the image of God, rather than pawns to please the gods. And ultimately, creation is an act of God's gracious salvation.