This week, we begin the study of Genesis, chapters 13-19. But first, I feel it would be helpful to set the stage for the chapters to come. So, let us backtrack for a moment, shall we?
Chapter 12 of Genesis marks a starting off point of sorts. The sacred writer shifts from the history of the world, and devoting the rest of Genesis to the biographies of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph.
The one common, distinguishing, feature of these men was their faith in God. Abram (Abraham), the man whom we are now focused on, is the most prominent of those mentioned in the Old Testament.
While other books in the Bible reference others, Adam 7 times and Noah 8 times, for example, Abraham (Abram) is mentioned more than 100 times.
Abram's native country was Chaldea. It neighbored the most remarkable and highly civilized country of those times, Egypt. He was born in or near a city called "Ur of the Chaldees."
Genesis 12:1-9 recounts the "Call of Abram." The backstory here is nearly four centuries long. During that time, the human family was renewed after the flood, reproduced, spread far and wide, then proceeded to corrupt itself.
The time had now arrived for God to intervene in order to preserve the true religion, and prevent humanity from once again retreating toward destruction.
It's important to mention that before the coming of Jesus Christ, the call of Abram was the most significant event in the moral and spiritual world.
A problem arose in the period between the flood and the call of Abram. The wickedness in man's heart redirected itself toward idolatry and carnality. Such inclinations presented the threat of extinction for the worship of the one true God.
It appeared that all knowledge of the one true God was headed for certain elimination. However, Abram's story was just getting started. The most important fact in his life was his strong belief in one God, and only one God.
Abram was chosen by God among all people on earth to be the father of a mighty nation, and the person to establish a great religion. And through his seed, future revelations were to be given until the coming of the the Messiah.
Thus, we are now up to date. Before attempting the assignment, I urge you to read Genesis, chapter 12 carefully. Our study this week will only include the "Call of Abram" (Genesis 12:1-9). We will cover Genesis 12:10-20 next time.
Let's begin our study with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of your truth. Amen.
Now, this week's study:
1.) The call of the Lord came to Abram while he was still living in Ur. He was asked to do three things and then leave on a long, religious journey. What were they? (Genesis 12:1)
2.) God made a magnificent covenant with Abram that included what important promises? (Genesis 12:2-3)
3.) Abram heeded God's call and set out from Haran (Ur of the Chaldees). However, he did not depart alone on his journey. How old was Abram when he left home? Who were his companions? Where did they travel to? (Genesis 12:4-5)
4.) Abram eventually arrived at Shechem, a Hivite city under Canaanite possession. There the Lord appeared to him. This fulfilled God’s promise to Abram at the time of his call (see Genesis 12:1-3).What did the Lord say to him? What did Abram proceed to do? (Genesis 12:6-7)
5.) From the great tree Moreh, Abram moves to a hill east of Bethel, and makes camp there. What did he do there? Where did Abram proceed to from here? (Genesis 12:8-9)
This concludes our study this week. Next time, we will pick up in Genesis 12, closing the chapter with Abram and Sarai in Egypt (Genesis 12:10-20). I encourage you to read the material ahead of time. Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:9; Matthew 22:14; Romans 8:28; 1 Timothy 1:12; Philippians 4:13
Closing prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen
May you all be generously blessed!
Bibi
Now, this week's study:
1.) The call of the Lord came to Abram while he was still living in Ur. He was asked to do three things and then leave on a long, religious journey. What were they? (Genesis 12:1)
2.) God made a magnificent covenant with Abram that included what important promises? (Genesis 12:2-3)
3.) Abram heeded God's call and set out from Haran (Ur of the Chaldees). However, he did not depart alone on his journey. How old was Abram when he left home? Who were his companions? Where did they travel to? (Genesis 12:4-5)
4.) Abram eventually arrived at Shechem, a Hivite city under Canaanite possession. There the Lord appeared to him. This fulfilled God’s promise to Abram at the time of his call (see Genesis 12:1-3).What did the Lord say to him? What did Abram proceed to do? (Genesis 12:6-7)
5.) From the great tree Moreh, Abram moves to a hill east of Bethel, and makes camp there. What did he do there? Where did Abram proceed to from here? (Genesis 12:8-9)
This concludes our study this week. Next time, we will pick up in Genesis 12, closing the chapter with Abram and Sarai in Egypt (Genesis 12:10-20). I encourage you to read the material ahead of time. Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:9; Matthew 22:14; Romans 8:28; 1 Timothy 1:12; Philippians 4:13
Closing prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen
May you all be generously blessed!
Bibi
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