Recap from 8/8 and 8/22

8/8
We read Genesis chapters 19-22. Here are some questions to consider as you read these chapters:

1. How is the faith of Lot different from that of Abraham? How is it similar? What about the faith shown by other people in these chapters - Hagar, Sarah, and Isaac?

2. Chapter 22 is a very deep theological story. Things to think about are: could it ever be "wrong" to do what God tells you to do, or should we trust that even if it seems wrong God will make it right in the end? In what ways was this story a foreshadowing of God sacrificing his own Son on the cross? What does this story tell us about Abraham's faith?

Chapter 23 we skipped, it is bonus reading you can do on your own if you'd like.

8/22
We read Genesis 24-26. The clear theme in these chapters was that God is in control, and works things out according to his own plan. God led Abraham's servant to Rebekah, arranged her marriage to Isaac, and then told a prophet that she was having twins and that the older would serve the younger. This comes true when Esau gives up his birthright to Jacob, and (as we will read in a later chapter), when Isaac gives his blessing to Jacob instead of Esau. It is from Jacob that the nation of Israel, and ultimately Jesus, descends. God's plan for our redemption is already in the works.

As always, we welcome any further questions or comments here on the blog, or bring them in person next Sunday!