ABOUT ABRAHAM

0. About Abraham

a) We all know that there are consequences to any action we take. What we do can set into motion a series of events that may continue long after we're gone. Unfortunately, when we are making a decision most of us think only of the immediate consequences. These are often misleading because they are short-lived.

b) Abraham had a choice to make. His decision was between setting out with his family and belongings for parts unknown or staying right where he was. He had to decide between the security of what he already had and the uncertainty of traveling under God's direction. All he had to go on was God's promise to guide and bless him. Abraham could hardly have been expected to visualize how much of the future was resting on his decision of whether to go or stay, but his obedience affected the history of the world. His decision to follow God set into motion the development of the nation that God would eventually use as his own when he visited earth himself. When Jesus Christ came to earth, God's promise was fulfilled; through Abraham the entire world was blessed.

c) You probably don't know the long-term effects of most decisions you make. But shouldn't the fact that there will be long-term results cause you to think carefully and seek God's guidance as you make choices and take action today? 

1. What were his strengths and accomplishments?

a) His faith pleased God.

b) Became the founder of the Jewish nation.

c) Was respected by others and was courageous in defending his family at any cost.

d) Was not only a caring father to his own family, but practiced hospitality to others.

e) Was a successful and wealthy rancher.

f) Usually avoided conflicts, but when they were unavoidable, he allowed his opponent to set the rules for settling the dispute.

2. What were his weaknesses and mistakes?

a) Under direct pressure, he distorted the truth.

3. What can we learn from his life?

a) God desires dependence, trust, and faith in him - not faith in our ability to please him.

b) God's plan from the beginning has been to make himself known to all people.

4. What are the key verses?

a) ⁶ Then he believed in the Lord; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness. (Genesis 15:6)

b) Abraham's story is told in Genesis 11-25. He is also mentioned in Exodus 2:24; Acts 7:2-8; Romans 4; Galatians 3; Hebrews 2; 6; 7; 11.