Scripture Study with Bibi - Genesis 17:15-27

"If you know that God loves you, you should never question a directive from Him. It will always be right and best. When He gives you a directive, you are not just to observe it, discuss it, or debate it. You are to obey it."  - Henry Blackaby

In our last study we discussed Genesis 17, verses 1 thru 14. This week we will conclude chapter 17 by examining verses 15 thru 25. My reasoning for splitting the chapter was to allow us a little more time to absorb all of the information in this important chapter.

At this point in time, Abram was not a young man, by any stretch of the imagination. He was a sprightly ninety-nine years old! And, if you thought that God was going to let him quietly settle into old age, you'd be sadly mistaken.

We saw some pretty amazing things happen to Abram by the graceful hand of God in the first half of Genesis 17. We saw God's promise of many offspring (Genesis 17:4); God changing Abram's name to Abraham (Genesis 17:5).

But that wasn't all! We also saw God establish his covenant with Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 17:7); the sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, the circumcision; the age requirement of circumcision, and who was obliged to do it (Genesis 17:12-14).

Before we start, I encourage all to read the chapter prior to answering the questions. I believe this helps to put everything in proper perspective, and assists in the retention of the information. It will also benefit your study time immensely!

Let's begin 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, here is this week's study...

I don't know about you, but I'm certainly not perfect. I've had my share of lapses in faith like everyone else. Abraham was certainly no different. But there's good news for believers. As we shall see, despite our mistakes, God is always faithful!

1.) Abraham (formerly, Abram) was not the only one to have his name changed by God. Who was the next subject to secure a new name by God? What was this person's old name, and what is their new name? How did this name transform their relationship with God? (Genesis 17:15).

2.) Continuing with His promises, God promised Abraham two more things that involved his ninety year old wife. What was the first promise? What was the second? (Genesis 17:16).

3.) One can certainly understand how Abraham must have felt after hearing these promises from God. This joyful news was a long time in coming, for sure! What did Abraham do after hearing God's promise?  What thoughts ran through his mind at that time? (Genesis 17:17).

4.) Up until now, Abraham thought that Ishmael (his son by Hagar) would be the promised seed. But after hearing God's promise to him he felt concern for Ishmael. What did he petition God for Ishmael? (Genesis 17:18).

5.) God understood Abraham's concern for Ishmael, but He affirms his objectives to him. What two things does he tell Abraham regarding his wife? And what will He do for Abraham? (Genesis 17:19).

6.) But what about Ishmael? Not to worry, God didn't forget about him. What did God say He would do for Ishmael? What did He have in store for him? (Genesis 17:20).

7.) God then reaffirmed a couple of things with Abraham. What was the first? What was the second? (Genesis 17:21).

8.) God was now finished talking to Abraham. What happened at this point? (Genesis 17:22).

9.) His dialogue with God now ended, Abraham prepares to obey God's command. What did Abraham do? Who was involved? (Genesis 17:23).

10.) Abraham himself was to take part in this command, including Ishmael. How old was he at this time? How old was Ishmael? (Genesis 17:24-26).

11.) Abraham and Ishmael both obeyed God's command that very day. Who else was included in fulfilling God's command? (Genesis 17:27).

Next time in Genesis 18, we shall discuss another account between God and Abraham that occurred shortly after the one just concluded. This discourse was a reward for Abraham's obedience to God's command, which includes some very fascinating occurrences!

Important Note: Next week is the Passion Week, therefore, in order to allow for messages pertaining to this important time in the earthly life of Jesus Christ, our regularly scheduled Bible study will be moved to the following week.

Until then, have a blessed and safe Passion Week! 

Scripture: Philippians 4:19; Jeremiah 29:11; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Isaiah 43:2; Proverbs 1:33

Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings You provide with Your presence in my life. Amen.

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi