The best stories in the book of Genesis involve families. The issues these stories raise--married vs. single life, sibling rivalry, infertility, family relocation, blended families, and the like--are startlingly relevant to families of today. This Bible study examines the families of Genesis, starting with how the Adam and Eve story encompasses far more ways of being family than most of us think. It looks at the sibling rivalry of the Cain and Abel story, pointing to the jealousy and violence to which the whole human family seems addicted. It uses the ups and downs of the relationship between Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael can help us understand the complicated dynamic of blended families. Carol Helsel and Suzie Park invite readers these and many other connections as they reexamine the joys and complications of modern family life.

This engaging Bible study includes questions for individual reflection or group use.

Park, Song

Song-Mi Suzie Park is Associate Professor of Old Testament at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. She is an editorial board member for Connections: A Lectionary Commentary for Preaching and Worship, as well as the author of Hezekiah and the Dialogue of Memory.

Helsel, Carolyn B.

Carolyn B. Helsel is Associate Professor in the Blair Monie Distinguised Chair of Homiletics at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. She is an editorial board member for Connections: A Lectionary Commentary for Preaching and Worship, as well as the author of Anxious to Talk about It: Helping White Christians Talk Faithfully about Racism and Preaching about Racism: A Guide for Faith Leaders.