Scripture Study with Bibi - Genesis 22:1-24

 "God has great things in store for His people; they ought to have large expectations."  - Charles Spurgeon

If there's one thing we've learned so far in our study of the Book of Genesis it's that our faith in God will be tested. Faith is not a one-time deal. Throughout the life of the believer his or her faith will be put through its paces.

Many will start out strong in faith from the gate, but fizzle-out before reaching the finish line. They will stumble, become frustrated, have self-doubt, experience exhaustion, and suffer ridicule and humiliation.

Yet, those who time and time again manage to pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and press on, will "receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward" (Colossians 3:24). We have seen this repeatedly played out through Genesis.

Last time in Genesis 21, we saw the birth of the child of promise to Abraham; the casting out of Ishmael, son of the bondwoman Hagar; the renewal of the promise to Ishmael; how he prospers and then marries, and the covenant between Abraham and Abimelech.

This week in Genesis 22 the focus will be on Abraham and the sacrifice of his son Isaac. As mentioned, it is a given that the believer's faith will be tested over and over. Abraham has experienced both, a strong faith, and a weak faith. Which will show up here?

As always, I strongly suggest that you read the material thoroughly prior to answering the questions. In doing so, your comprehension will be greatly enhanced. In addition, it will make your time in study more productive and beneficial.

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, this week's study...

You've probably heard the expression "keep your eye on the ball." Any person of faith must, "keep his eye on God," that is, we can't let circumstances distract us, or deliberate about the consequences of what God asks. The test of faith is invaluable.

1.) Abraham's greatest test of faith is about to take place. Who did it involve? What did God ask him to do? (Genesis 22:1-2)

2.) Abraham now had his command from God. What did he do the following morning? Who went with him? (Genesis 22:3)

3.) Since receiving God's command, then setting out on his journey, Abraham had been on the road for two days. What happened on the third day? What did he order his servants to do? (Genesis 22:4-5)

4.) The servants were not meant to see what Abraham was going to do. This probably appeared a little odd to them, to say the least, but who were they to question Abraham? What did Abraham and Isaac do here? What puzzled Isaac? What was Abraham's response to him? (Genesis 22:6-8)

5.) Abraham and Isaac finally arrived at the specified place. What did Abraham do first? What did he do next? What was his final act? (Genesis 22:9-10)

6.) Abraham had faithfully followed God's command exactly up to this point. However, something momentous happens at the last possible second. Who intervened and what was said? What command was given to Abraham, and why? (Genesis 22:12-13)

7.) God always provides, and this time was no different. What did God provide Abraham with? What was the other result of God's provision here? (Genesis 22:13-14)

8.) But the angel of the LORD was not quite through with Abraham yet. What did the angel do now? What was given to Abraham in return for his obedience of faith? (Genesis 22:15-18)

9.) Abraham's faith had been tested and proven, the LORD'S blessings given and received. What did Abraham do now? Where did he and his party go? (Genesis 22:19)

10.) The events at the end of Genesis 22 lay the groundwork for the marriage of the heir of the promise, Isaac. What was the news that Abraham received concerning his brother Nabor's wife, Milkah? Though many names are listed, only one figures prominently in Isaac's future, who is it? (Genesis 22:20-24)

This concludes our study of Genesis 22. Next time we will discuss the death of Abraham's wife Sarah, and other facts of importance, including her funeral. This also marks the decline of Abraham's story and the blossoming of Isaac's.

Until then, have a safe and blessed week!

Scripture: Philippians 4:19; Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 37:4; Proverbs 3:5; Hebrews 11:6

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

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi