Challenge: Can you solve this crossword puzzle even if you do not have the textbook?
"This was a nice change of pace. I was surprised that I recalled more than I thought I would." -- Angela B., Nazarene Bible College student
Bible reading for this assignment: Genesis 1-9, 11-12, 15, 17, 21-22, 24, 37-45, 48-50 (plus textbook chapter 4)
This crossword puzzle was created for use in the course Introduction to Biblical Literature. The words and clues come from the textbook Discovering the Bible: Story and Faith of the Biblical Communities edited by Alex Varughese and published by Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City, now The Foundry Publishing.
-- Howard Culbertson,
The Book of Genesis is the first book of the Bible. It narrates the origins of the world, humanity, and the Hebrew people. It begins with God's formation of the universe in the creation story. The narrative then shifts to Adam and Eve, the first humans, and their fall from grace in the Garden of Eden. Genesis continues with accounts of Cain and Abel, the Great Flood, and the Tower of Babel.
Beginning in chapter 12, the narrative introduces Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, detailing their relationships with God and the establishment of the covenant between God and the Israelites. The book concludes with the migration of Jacob's family to Egypt. That sets the stage for the events of Exodus. Themes of obedience, faith, and divine providence appear throughout Genesis. In its fifty chapters, Genesis provides us insights into the human condition as well as providing material for the forfmation of Judeo-Christian theology.
G — God as Creator – We learn that God is the origin of all things, bringing order from chaos.
E — Eternal Promises – God's covenants with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob show His faithfulness through generations.
N — Nature of Sin – The fall of man reveals how sin entered the world and its ongoing impact.
E — Example of Faith – Figures like Abraham demonstrate what it means to trust God fully.
S — Sovereignty of God – Even in human failings, God's plan unfolds perfectly (e.g., Joseph’s story).
I — Image of God – Humanity is created with value and purpose, made in God’s own image.
S — Salvation Foreshadowed – Early glimpses of God's redemptive plan appear, pointing forward to Christ.
Like acrostics? Here are more of them
Other Bible crossword puzzles in this series | Click on letters to retrieve sheets
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