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Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Two): Love Exemplified

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

In Genesis 22, God's command to Abraham highlights the profound love he held for his son Isaac, described as his only son whom he loved. This love, emphasized by God, reflects a deep fatherly affection, paralleling a significant divine pattern. Abraham's love for Isaac is portrayed as a vital human example, showcasing a bond of great care and loyalty during a time when he had grown settled and prosperous, possibly focusing more on rearing Isaac as his heir than on his relationship with God. Despite a long silence from God, potentially spanning decades, Abraham's immediate readiness to obey when called demonstrates his unwavering devotion, even when faced with the heart-wrenching command to offer Isaac. This test was not merely about sacrifice but about proving where Abraham's ultimate loyalty lay—whether with his beloved son or with God. His response, marked by steadfast faith and readiness to act without hesitation, underscores the depth of his love for Isaac, yet places it secondary to his commitment to God. Through this narrative, Abraham's love for his son serves as a poignant reflection of a greater divine love, illustrating the emotional stakes and the strength required to prioritize divine will over personal attachment.

Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Three): Hope Demonstrated

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Abraham's resolute intent to sacrifice Isaac displayed his unreserved devotion to God's purpose for him. We must display the same kind of tenacity.

One God and One God Only

Sermonette by Mike Ford

Abraham's deep love for Isaac, his only legitimate son and the son of promise, was evident in the tender interactions between them. God acknowledged this bond, referring to Isaac as "your only son whom you love," yet commanded Abraham to offer him as a burnt offering in the land of Moriah. Despite this heart-wrenching directive, Abraham's love for Isaac did not become worship or displace God in his heart. His unquestioning obedience was shown as he rose early, prepared the wood, and journeyed for three days with Isaac, carrying the weight of the impending sacrifice in his mind. Throughout the journey, the affection between father and son was clear, as seen in their exchange of "My father!" and "My son!" Even as Isaac questioned the absence of a lamb for the offering, possibly suspecting his role, he displayed complete faith in Abraham. Abraham, in turn, reassured Isaac that God would provide, reflecting his trust in God's plan. When they reached the designated place, Abraham built the altar and bound Isaac, who, as a young man, submitted willingly to his father's actions, showing humility and confidence in their relationship with God. At the critical moment, as Abraham raised the knife to slay his son, his ultimate obedience and faith were evident, proving that God held the first place in his life. God intervened, affirming that He knew Abraham feared Him, having not withheld his only son. A ram was provided as a substitute, and Abraham named the place "The-LORD-Will-Provide," signifying God's provision for those who put Him first. Through this act, God confirmed His promise to bless Abraham and multiply his descendants, a blessing secured by Abraham's unwavering commitment to having no other gods before Him.