The Gospel in Genesis and in the City

Genesis offers insight and encouragement to those who live and minister in urban environments. Though the world began in a garden-temple, it eventually arrives at an urban temple. There are indications in Genesis that those who are made in God's image seek community, and urban living offers the promise of community. The first major attempt at city-building in Genesis represents man in rebellion against God. Contrariwise, the New Testament tells us that Abraham was looking for a city whose builder and maker was God. Abraham desired a city designed for worship, not a Babel-like monument to human rebellion. Human cities most often represent rebellion, not worship, and need redemption. Genesis offers much insight into how the unfolding story of the gospel relates to the desperate plight of urban dwellers as they futilely seek to find rest and community in urban temples that worship the creature rather than the Creator.