Genesis 2 

While Genesis 1 presents a chronological account of creation, Genesis 2 presents a topical account of creation.  In Genesis 2, we read about the seventh day, on which God rested from all the work of creating that he had done, and the special way in which he created man and woman.  We also read about paradise with its two special trees and God’s command, You must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.  Finally, in verses 18-25, we find the account of God’s institution of marriage. 

1. How did God lead Adam to notice the conclusion God expressed in verse 18: It is not good for the man to be alone? 
   
    
2. What does the term suitable helper tell us about the relationship between husband and wife? 
   
    
3. It was God who brought Eve and Adam together and instituted marriage.  Marriage, then, is not human arrangement.  What implications does this have for us today? 
   
      
4. Which words of Adam indicate that he recognized and received Eve as a special blessing from God?  Put Adam’s words into your own. 
   
     
5. Verse 24 gives us a brief description of marriage as instituted by God.  Explain the three parts of this verse. 
   
     
6. In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus quoted Genesis 2:24 and then added: So they are no longer two, but one.  Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate (Matthew 19:6).  What was Jesus saying about God’s will concerning marriage? 
   
     
    
7. What does the account from Genesis 2 tell us about polygamy?  Homosexuality?  Pre- or extramarital sexual relationships? 
   
      
8. How can a single person express appreciation for God’s gifts of marriage?