Today's passage: Genesis 22:1-24
Helpful thoughts:
- At this point in his life, Abraham's faith is ready to be tested. This passage is the climax of Abraham's journey of faith.
- Abraham's journey takes him and Isaac to the place where Solomon's Temple would later be built, Mt. Moriah in Jerusalem (“The mount of the Lord” – Verse 14).
- God provided a substitute for this offering and sacrifice. Our God is the Lord who provides.
- Jesus Christ was provided as our substitute, dying on the cross and taking the wrath we deserve for our own sins on Himself.
- The minor genealogy at the end of the chapter indicates Abraham's narrative is coming to a close. It also gives the reader insight into what is coming next (Isaac and Rebekah).
Questions to consider:
- Earlier in Abraham's life, God knew of his faith and counted righteousness to him. Now Abraham has shown his faith by his works/obedience. How does James 2:21-23 use this passage to illustrate the way our actions demonstrate our faith?
- God's promises to Abraham had been unconditional (Chapter 15), but in verses 15-19 it sounds like God is crediting Abraham for bringing the blessings of God on his own life. How might Ephesians 2:8-10 speak to this idea? When we are rewarded in heaven, to whom will all the praise belong?
- In what way can Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son picture God the Father? In what way does the ram caught in the thicket picture Jesus Christ?