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TEXT - Genesis 17:1-18:15
This Sunday we were in Genesis 17-18. God rearticulates his covenant with Abraham, gives a sign that marks God's people and promises the birth of Isaac. The longer Abraham and Sarai wait for this promise to be fulfilled, the more unlikely, even laughable, it seems to them. But God is faithful. This passage teaches us a crucial lesson: ss God’s set-apart people, we must trust in his promises, for nothing is too hard for him.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
How does God introduce himself to Abram when he appears to him in verse 1? What does God call Abram to do?
What is the purpose of circumcision for God’s covenant people? See Deuteronomy 30:6 and Romans 2:28-29.
Why does God change Abram and Sarai’s names to Abraham and Sarah?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
In Chapter 18, the LORD appeared to Abraham again. This time they shared a meal. Where else in the Bible do we see the presence of God around a meal? Why is this significant?
Both Abraham and Sarah laugh at the reiterated promise that they will have a son. Why do they laugh?
How does the LORD respond to Sarah’s laughter? What does this teach us about God?
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
Consider Abraham’s obedience. This wasn’t an easy task! Think of a time when obedience to God has been difficult. How did you respond?
Circumcision marked God’s covenant people apart from the surrounding nations. How are Christians today marked as separate from the world around us? How should we engage with the world around us?
Meals in the Bible often communicate God’s pursuit of intimacy with his people. What is your current level of desire for relationship with God on a scale of 1-10? Why did you give yourself this rating and what are you going to do about it?