Challanged by the example of Abraham
Abraham’s Test; a purpose in trials
1. God Tests His People
The first book of the Bible, Genesis, acknowledges from the start that God tests His children (Gen. 22:1). These tests, while often uncomfortable or challenging to the flesh, serve God’s purpose for our spiritual development and growth. Just as academic students must take exams to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding, we as disciples also encounter tests that reveal our faith and character. These trials can help us grow in patience and resilience, resulting in a confident hope and trust in God’s plan for our lives (Rom. 5:4). They remind us that our faith is not just about believing in God conceptually, but it’s about trusting Him at all times and living a life of radical obedience.
2. The Story of Isaac
A pivotal moment in Abraham's journey unfolds after the miraculous birth of his son Isaac. Isaac was not just any child; he was the child of promise, born to Abraham and Sarah when they were well past childbearing age. This joyous occasion was challenged, however, when God issued a seemingly shocking command: Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Moriah. For many of us this command would bring an intense moral and emotional conflict, placing our faith in the crosshairs. It raises questions about God’s nature, the meaning of sacrifice, and the depth of trust required in a relationship with God.
3. The Journey to Moriah
As Abraham and Isaac began their journey to Mount Moriah, Isaac noticed that they had the fire and the wood necessary for the burnt offering, but he asked a poignant question: “Where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” (Gen. 22:7). Abraham responded in faith with the reply, “God will provide for Himself the lamb” (Gen. 22:8). This dialogue illustrates Abraham's faith in God's provision and his faith was followed up by action which was counted to him as righteousness (Rom. 4:1-2).
4. The Altar
Upon reaching the designated spot on Mount Moriah, Abraham prepared to fulfill God’s command, taking the faith-filled action of binding Isaac and placing him on the altar. As he raised the knife, ready to sacrifice his beloved son, a voice rang out: “Abraham! Abraham! Do not lay a hand on the boy. Do not do anything to him” (Gen. 22:11-12). This divine intervention not only spared Isaac’s life but also underscored the importance of obedience and the deep relationship between God and Abraham (Jam. 2:23). At that critical moment, Abraham’s obedience was tested to the utmost, and it was through this act of faith that God revealed His provision - a ram caught in the thicket, which would be offered instead.
5. God’s Provision
The appearance of the ram at that crucial moment serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision. It highlights the biblical principle that when we trust God and remain faithful, He will provide what is needed, often in ways we do not expect. The ram’s presence not only fulfilled the requirement of sacrifice but also illustrated that God is aware of our needs even before we voice them. This act of provision reassured Abraham that God was indeed with him, reinforcing the idea that God cares deeply for His people.
6. Understanding the Context
To fully appreciate the gravity of this story, it’s essential to understand the cultural context of Abraham’s time. In the ancient world, child sacrifice was not an uncommon practice, and the firstborn was often viewed with particular significance. While this cultural norm is shocking to us today, understanding it provides insight into Abraham’s mindset. God’s command to sacrifice Isaac was not only a test of faith but also a challenge to the prevailing cultural beliefs of the time. It forced Abraham to confront the value of his son in light of his faith in God’s promises.
7. Radical Obedience
Abraham’s willingness to obey God, despite the anguish it caused him, demonstrates the depth of his faith (trust in God). His radical obedience raises challenging questions for us: Are we willing to trust God with our most cherished possessions, our dreams, and our loved ones? Can we surrender our plans and desires to follow His will, even when it is difficult? This story challenges us to examine our own lives and consider what we might be holding onto that God is asking us to release in order to fully follow Him. It brings Jesus’ criteria for discipleship to our very heart. Are we prepared to love Him more than anything (Matt. 10:37)? Are we prepared to deny ourselves (Matt. 16:24)?
8. Lessons for UsThe story of Abraham’s testing offers valuable lessons that resonate in our contemporary lives:
Stay Committed to God: This narrative encourages us to maintain a steadfast commitment to God, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. Faith is not merely about believing when times are good; it is about trusting God when the path is unclear and the stakes are high.
Trust God’s plan: We must learn to let God be Lord, trusting that His plans are for our ultimate good. No challenges or discipline seem good at the time but by loving and trusting Him we can see all things work to our good (Rom. 8:28), knowing that a harvest of righteousness and peace can be produced in our lives (Heb. 12:11).
Our Actions must Match our Faith: it’s one thing to believe that God exists, even the demons believe that (Jam. 2:19)! Yet God requires a life of radical obedience; an obedience that tests our love for Him (John 14:15). As we walk in relationship with Him, aiming to be a friend of God like Abraham, our faith-filled actions can be counted to us as righteousness (Jam. 2:18-24).
With thanks and acknowledgment to the faculty of the School for Ministry Development, Global University. This blog is part of the learning requirement for the course; Old Testament Survey.
© 2021 NorthSaint: Darren Roy
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