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Abraham's One God
Article by Mike FordAbraham's relationship with God stands as a profound example of unwavering faith and obedience. God tested Abraham by commanding him to offer his only son, Isaac, as a burnt offering in the land of Moriah, a request that challenged the very core of Abraham's love and trust. Yet, Abraham responded with immediate obedience, rising early in the morning to prepare for the journey, demonstrating his recognition of God's supreme authority. He fully appreciated who and what God is: He is GOD! Throughout the three-day journey to Moriah, Abraham's resolve did not waver, even as he carried the weight of sacrificing his beloved son. His faith was ironclad, knowing with certainty that God would fulfill His promises, even if it meant raising Isaac from the dead. When God called out to him at the critical moment, through the Angel of the Lord, Abraham's readiness to answer, "Here I am," revealed his deep humility and submission. God acknowledged this loyalty, declaring, "Now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me," affirming that He held first place in Abraham's heart. Abraham's obedience led to God's provision of a ram for the sacrifice, sparing Isaac, and reinforcing the truth that God will provide for those who trust in Him completely. Naming the place "The-Lord-Will-Provide," Abraham cemented the lesson of yielding to God's will. God's subsequent promise to bless Abraham and multiply his descendants became unconditional due to this act of faith, showing that placing God above all else ensures participation in His divine plan. Abraham's life exemplifies that there is room for only one God, a standard of devotion that challenges all to prioritize Him above everything.
One God and One God Only
Sermonette by Mike FordAbraham's relationship with God stands as a profound example of unwavering faith and obedience. God tested Abraham by commanding him to offer his only son, Isaac, as a burnt offering in the land of Moriah. Despite the unimaginable weight of this command, Abraham responded with immediate obedience, rising early in the morning to prepare for the journey without hesitation. His readiness to sacrifice Isaac, even as he grappled with the implications, demonstrated that God held the first place in his heart, above all else, including his beloved son. Throughout the three-day journey to the designated mountain, Abraham's resolve did not waver, though Isaac was as good as dead in his mind during this time. When they reached the place God had chosen, Abraham built the altar and bound Isaac, poised to slay him with a knife, showing the pinnacle of his obedience and faith. At that critical moment, the Angel of the LORD intervened, calling out to Abraham and affirming that He now knew Abraham feared God, having not withheld his only son from Him. God provided a ram caught in a thicket as a substitute for Isaac, and Abraham named the place "The-LORD-Will-Provide," acknowledging God's provision for those who trust in Him completely. God further blessed Abraham for his obedience, swearing by Himself to multiply Abraham's descendants and ensure that through his seed all nations would be blessed. This promise became unconditional because Abraham proved he had no other gods before God, placing Him first in his life. Abraham's example illustrates that for God's plan to come to fruition and for His blessings to be received, He must be the sole focus of worship and devotion, above all competing desires or attachments.
Abraham (Part Five)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God stands as a profound example of faith and trust, even amidst uncertainty and trial. God promised Abraham a land for possession, though He gave him no inheritance in it during his lifetime, not even enough to set his foot on. Despite having no child at the time, God assured Abraham that his descendants would inherit this land, though they would first dwell in a foreign land and endure bondage for four hundred years before being delivered to serve Him. This covenant, sealed with circumcision, underscored the personal bond between God and Abraham, a relationship that Abraham cherished above all, regardless of his physical state or place of residence. Abraham lived by faith, obeying God's call to go to a place he would receive as an inheritance, even though he did not know where he was going. He dwelt in the land of promise as a foreigner, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, waiting for a city with foundations built by God. When tested, Abraham offered up Isaac, trusting that God could raise him from the dead, evaluating the evidence of God's promises and concluding that God would fulfill His word, either by resurrection or by providing an alternative. Though Abraham did not have all the evidence to fully understand every circumstance, there was always enough for him to step out in faith, trusting that God would provide and resolve any difficult situation. This faith kept Abraham on edge through constant movement, a lesson for all as pilgrims, showing that the relationship with God, not the physical land or circumstances, was what mattered most. Abraham obeyed God despite never receiving the promised inheritance in his lifetime, perceiving the intent behind the land and the covenant rather than focusing on the physical possession. His contentment in any state, learned through trials, mirrored the understanding that God's regard for him was not measured by his condition but by the relationship they shared. When commanded to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham saw God provide a ram instead, naming the place "The-Lord-Will-Provide," encapsulating a major lesson of his century-long journey of faith—that God always provides. Abraham's journey was not without missteps, as seen when he went down to Egypt during a famine, possibly failing to trust God long enough to supply his needs. In Egypt, there was no mention of worship, prayer, or communion with God, indicating a lapse in closeness. Only upon returning to Bethel, the house of God, did Abraham rebuild an altar and call on God's name, restoring fellowship. This return marked a renewed focus on his relationship with God, further emphasized by separations from worldly ties, such as Lot, whose carnal focus contrasted with Abraham's spiritual vision. Abraham's choice to dwell in Canaan, content to appear weak with God rather than strong without Him in the strongholds of evil, highlighted his prioritization of this divine bond over worldly gain. Ultimately, Abraham valued his relationship with God above all else, passing the test of faith through trials and learning from mistakes. His life demonstrates that God desires to see whether this relationship matters most, testing reactions through various circumstances to build character. Abraham's pattern of faith, even when enduring confusion and doubt, shows that trusting in God's presence and provision, rather than physical conditions or promises, is the essence of a true bond with Him.
The Providence of God (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God stands as a profound example of faith and obedience amidst intense personal struggle. God, who had promised Abraham a son, fulfilled that promise after many years of waiting with the birth of Isaac, whom Abraham loved deeply. Yet, God, as his Friend and Master, commanded Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, creating a heart-wrenching dilemma. If Abraham obeyed, he would keep God but lose his son; if he disobeyed, he would keep Isaac but lose God. Despite the emotional turmoil, Abraham's faith in God's character and promises prevailed. He calculated, reasoning through his knowledge of God, and concluded that God had both the power to resurrect and the faithfulness to keep His word. Abraham's resolve was set by the third day of his journey, trusting that both he and Isaac would return, demonstrating his belief that God would intervene or provide a way. Abraham's actions were not stoic or emotionless; he rose early, saddled his donkey, and chopped wood himself, a rich and elderly man who could have delegated such tasks, likely driven by a mind in turmoil, seeking distraction from the impending sacrifice. His faith was not merely intellectual but deeply rooted in knowing God intimately, believing that God would never go back on His promise. This trust enabled Abraham to obey fully, even to the point where Isaac was as good as dead and resurrected in his mind, until God intervened and saved Isaac's life. Abraham's faith rose above his feelings, showing that he was not walking by sight but by a profound trust in his Friend, God. This episode reveals that Abraham lived by faith, a motivation that permeated his entire life, not just this singular event, as he yielded to God's will regardless of immediate circumstances. God engineered this trial, testing Abraham's belief in His faithfulness, and through it, Abraham's devotion and obedience became evident, reflecting a life of worship in every action.
Abraham (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughOne of the profound lessons from Abraham's life is that a life centered on God grants a person an inner strength that prevents life from disintegrating. This strength, derived from a deep companionship with God, fosters a mind that is understanding, merciful, kind, and selfless, stabilizing relationships and bringing peace within a marriage or community. Abraham's fellowship with God operated through faith, impacting every facet of his life. He believed God, and this belief shaped his actions and decisions. In Genesis 17, when Abraham was ninety-nine, God appeared to him, declaring, "I am God Almighty, walk before Me and be blameless, and I will multiply you exceedingly." This encounter emphasized that the fulfillment of God's promise depended solely on Him, as He reiterated His covenant with seven affirmations of "I will," underscoring that it would not be through human effort or self-will, but by His grace. Abraham's response was to fall on his face in complete submission, indicating his readiness to learn and follow God's path. God changed Abram's name to Abraham, signifying a new status and role aligned with the beginning of the fulfillment of the promise through Isaac. God initiated the covenant with Abraham, reaching out to establish a bond that gave purpose to life, ensuring it would not be lived in vain. This divine initiative showed that God desired a relationship with Abraham, inviting it on His terms, requiring complete surrender. Abraham's single-minded devotion to God, walking before Him, was central to receiving the blessings of the promise. This relationship with God, originating from Abraham, was intended to extend to his descendants, influencing families, schools, workplaces, and institutions, building God's way and character into every aspect of life.
Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Four): Providence Manifested
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God, as depicted in Genesis 22, reveals a profound bond marked by deep faith and unwavering obedience. Abraham's trust in God was evident as he confidently believed that God would provide what was needed, even in the face of the ultimate test—sacrificing his son Isaac. He knew God's providence would supply the lamb for the offering, demonstrating his certainty in God's promises. His interactions with God were characterized by calmness and readiness to serve, as seen in his steady responses of "Here I am" when called by God, reflecting a heart willing to obey without hesitation. This relationship was tested to its limits, yet Abraham's fear of God—understood as deep reverence and loyalty—prevailed over his love for Isaac. God Himself acknowledged this, declaring, "Now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me." Abraham's obedience confirmed his understanding of his place as the lesser partner in the covenant with God, a humble servant who recognized the necessity of absolute loyalty. He knew that under this covenant, his faithfulness would be rewarded, while disloyalty could bring severe consequences. Abraham's faith was further shown in his belief that God had the power to intervene, whether by stopping the sacrifice or by resurrecting Isaac if necessary, to fulfill the promises made through his heir. His relationship with God was not only personal but also covenantal, as he strove to walk before God and be blameless, fulfilling his part while trusting God to provide and bless him in return. This dynamic of mutual commitment—Abraham's obedience and God's provision—underscored their bond, culminating in God supplying the ram as a substitute for Isaac, affirming His role as the provider in their sacred agreement.
Abraham (Part Twelve)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God was marked by profound faith and obedience, evident in numerous interactions and trials throughout his life. Abimelech, recognizing God's presence with Abraham, declared, "God is with you in all that you do," and sought a covenant with him, acknowledging the divine favor upon Abraham's actions. Despite living as a stranger in exile, often in the land of the Philistines, Abraham experienced God's protection and provision, as He permitted no one to wrong him and rebuked kings for his sake, ensuring his safety and prosperity in foreign lands. God's ongoing work with Abraham did not cease with the fulfillment of promises like Isaac's birth; instead, it continued to shape his journey of faith. Abraham's commitment was tested when God commanded him to offer Isaac as a burnt offering in the land of Moriah. Without hesitation, Abraham obeyed, demonstrating his trust that God would provide, as he assured Isaac, "God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering." When God intervened, providing a ram instead, Abraham named the place "The-Lord-Will-Provide," affirming his belief in God's faithfulness. This act of obedience led to God's renewed promise, swearing by Himself to bless Abraham, multiply his descendants, and ensure that through his seed all nations would be blessed. Abraham's long-term fellowship with God, spanning a century, allowed him to calculate and trust in God's unchanging nature, knowing that God does not lie and is faithful to His promises. Even in moments of personal grief, such as Sarah's death, Abraham mourned yet continued living by faith, relying on God as the source of his hope and blessings, refusing gifts from others to maintain his dependence on divine provision. At Beersheba, where Abraham planted a tamarisk tree and called on the name of the Lord, the Everlasting God, his stable and prosperous period was marked by God's clear presence, further solidifying the importance of relationship over place in his walk with God. Ultimately, Abraham's life of faith, culminating in his death at a good old age as God had promised, exemplified a deep, enduring bond with the Divine, characterized by trust, obedience, and recognition of God's constant care.
Abraham (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God stands as a profound and unique bond, marked by deep friendship and faith. God chose Abraham to represent Him as a type of the Father, a singular honor in spiritual history, reflecting a combination of Abraham's natural abilities and yieldedness through faith, empowered by God's Spirit to accomplish mighty spiritual works. Abraham is distinctly called God's friend, a favored companion to whom God is attached by affection and esteem, placing Abraham in a remarkable position where God, in the highest place, acknowledges him as a friend, extending benefits to Abraham's progeny not for their merit, but due to this friendship. This friendship manifests in the great promises God gave to Abraham, establishing him as the father of a new spiritual race and the leader of a mighty host of born sons of God. God's love for Abraham extends benefits to his descendants, including material wealth and spiritual heritage through the Word of God, preserved and taught by them. Abraham's role was to pass on the faith, the way of life, and central values that God entrusted to him, teaching through the faithful recording of his life in Scripture. God's call to Abraham initiated this relationship, beginning with a promise in its simplest form, a gospel that Abraham believed and obeyed, leading to his separation from his world. This faith rested on the character and power of God who declared, "I will," providing a solid foundation for Abraham's actions. God's personal appearances and encouragements to Abraham further strengthened this bond, guiding him through a life of faith filled with movement and instability, yet always directed by God. Central to Abraham's relationship with God was not the physical inheritance or rewards, but the covenant and personal connection they shared. Abraham cherished this relationship above all, motivated by the character and power of God, unwilling to let anything break their bond. This friendship, built on trust and submission to God's word, defined Abraham's life and actions, inspiring a pattern of separation from the world and a continuous pilgrimage guided by faith. Communication through prayer and study, akin to the way friends maintain closeness, remains vital in sustaining and deepening this relationship with God, as it was for Abraham, God's friend.
Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Two): Love Exemplified
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God is marked by profound faith and immediate obedience, as seen in Genesis 22. When God called out to Abraham after a long period of silence, possibly decades since their last recorded interaction, Abraham responded instantly with, "Here I am," demonstrating his readiness and loyalty despite the surprise of the call. This exchange reveals the depth of their bond, showing Abraham's unwavering eagerness to serve God at a moment's notice. God tested Abraham by commanding him to offer his beloved son Isaac as a burnt offering on a mountain in the land of Moriah, a directive that challenged Abraham's devotion. Despite the emotional weight of sacrificing his only son, whom he loved deeply, Abraham showed no hesitation or defiance. His response reflects a man of stern faith who prioritized God above all, even over his most cherished possession. This test was not to induce failure but to prove Abraham's commitment and loyalty, confirming the genuineness of his faith through action. Abraham's understanding of God's character further shaped his response. Aware that human sacrifice was against God's principles, as implied by earlier interactions where God expressed confidence in Abraham's knowledge of righteousness, Abraham trusted that God would not ultimately require Isaac's death. This assurance allowed him to proceed with the command, confident that God would provide a way out, as reflected in his belief that God sees and provides, tied to the meaning of Moriah. His faith was validated when God guided him to the specific place for the sacrifice, reinforcing the pattern of obedience seen from Abraham's initial call to leave his country for an unknown land. Throughout this narrative, Abraham's relationship with God stands as a model of trust and devotion. His willingness to follow God's vague instructions, both in leaving his homeland and in journeying to Moriah, underscores a consistent pattern of faith manifested in action. God, in turn, used these tests to demonstrate Abraham's integrity, not to find fault, but to reveal the strength of their covenant relationship and Abraham's role as a faithful servant.
Seeking God (Part One): Our Biggest Problem
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God was marked by profound intimacy and clarity. There was nothing vague about God to Abraham; he thoroughly understood His character and purpose. Abraham knew he could trust God to act and react within clear parameters. When faced with the promise concerning Isaac as the promised seed, Abraham added up what he knew about God, reached a conclusion, and acted with faith. He trusted that God would either resurrect Isaac or provide a substitute, demonstrating his confidence in the One he knew has the power and is faithful. Unlike many who base their perceptions on vague or external influences, Abraham's precise understanding of God prevented him from entertaining unworthy thoughts or slipping into idolatry. His dynamic relationship with God served as a foundation for his conduct, ensuring that his actions aligned with God's will and purpose.
God, the Church's Greatest Problem
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God stands as a profound example of faith and trust in the Almighty. Through the righteousness of faith, Abraham received the promise to be heir of the world, not through the law, but by grace, establishing him as the father of all who believe. Despite his advanced age and the barrenness of Sarah's womb, Abraham did not waver in unbelief at God's promise. He remained strong in faith, giving glory to God, fully persuaded that what He had promised, He was also able to perform. When tested, Abraham demonstrated his deep knowledge of God by offering up Isaac, the promised seed. He accounted for God's power, reasoning that God was able to raise Isaac from the dead if necessary, or provide a substitute. His faith was rational, rooted in a true understanding of God's nature and faithfulness, not mere emotion or guesswork. Abraham knew that since Isaac was essential to the fulfillment of God's promise, God would act to ensure the promise held true. This trust led to God providing a substitute, affirming Abraham's accurate conception of Him. A right understanding of God, as shown in Abraham's life, is essential to avoid idolatry and to live in alignment with His will.
Abraham (Part Nine)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God stands as a profound example of faith and friendship. God called Abraham, giving him a divine purpose to lead his family in righteousness and justice, ensuring that His promises would be fulfilled through Abraham's descendants. This calling was not just a command but a reflection of the deep bond between them, as God shared His plans with Abraham, revealing His intentions for Sodom and Gomorrah out of friendship and trust. Abraham, recognized as a friend of God, was privy to His thoughts, a privilege rooted in their close relationship. When the Lord appeared to Abraham by the terebinth trees of Mamre, Abraham immediately recognized Him and responded with zealous hospitality, hurrying to prepare a generous meal despite the time it took. This act of service highlighted Abraham's devotion and respect for God, even as God patiently waited, demonstrating His own gracious nature. During this encounter, God reaffirmed His promise that Sarah would bear a son, confronting her doubt with a gentle rebuke to strengthen her faith, showing His concern for both Abraham and Sarah in fulfilling His covenant. Abraham's boldness in interceding for Sodom further revealed the depth of his relationship with God. He approached the Lord with confidence, pleading for the righteous in the city, bargaining down from fifty to ten, knowing God's just nature would not destroy the righteous with the wicked. This audacity stemmed from Abraham's understanding of God's character, trusting that He desired salvation over destruction. God respected Abraham's plea, affirming that even a small number of righteous could spare the city, showcasing His willingness to engage with Abraham's heartfelt requests. Throughout these interactions, Abraham's faith was evident in his wholehearted dedication to God. Unlike others who wavered, Abraham's commitment was unwavering, seen in his hospitality, his intercession, and his obedience to God's call. God did not merely command Abraham but guided him through a gradual process of growth, unraveling past habits and building new patterns of righteousness, reflecting His desire to create a mind in Abraham that chose to follow Him voluntarily through faith. This relationship, built on trust and mutual understanding, set Abraham apart as a foundational figure of faith.
Israel's Missing Characteristics of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Abraham's relationship with God stands as one of the highest among the historical accounts of the Israelitish people. This bond was marked by a warm, friendly, and trusting connection, distinguishing Abraham as a unique figure in his faithfulness to God. Unlike the often tumultuous relationships between God and humanity, Abraham's interaction with Him was characterized by a deep belief and humble submission. He waited patiently on God, demonstrating a steadfast commitment that set a profound example of what it means to be faithful in one's walk with the Creator.
Experiencing God
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God exemplifies a profound and intimate connection, built over a lifetime of shared experiences. Though his technical and doctrinal knowledge was limited compared to ours, lacking access to extensive scriptures, Abraham is revered as the father of the faithful. God personally visited him on several occasions, spoke with him, and shared at least one meal, fostering a closeness that allowed Abraham to bargain with God for Lot's life. Called by God at age 75, he lived another 100 years as a converted person, walking with Him through numerous experiences, of which the biblical accounts are merely highlights. Despite his imperfections and mistakes, such as those involving Ishmael and Isaac, Abraham learned over time to trust God deeply. This trust reached its pinnacle when he was willing to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Moriah, demonstrating his profound faith. Through these experiences, God Himself affirmed to Isaac that Abraham obeyed His voice and kept His charge, commandments, statutes, and laws. Over his long life, seeing God at work beside him, Abraham came to know Him intimately, becoming like Him to the extent that he is our human example of how to walk with God. His faith was made perfect through works, as seen in his offering of Isaac, and he was called the friend of God, signifying the depth of their relationship. Unlike those Jesus did not know in the parable of the virgins, Abraham's intimate bond with God, forged through a lifetime of walking together, ensured he was recognized and trusted by Him.
Facing Times of Stress: Always in God's Presence
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAbraham, known as the friend of God, walked with Him in a profound relationship of fellowship. This intimate connection exemplifies the privilege of living in constant communion with God, a bond that Abraham nurtured through his steadfast commitment. His life reflects the essence of setting the Lord always before oneself, demonstrating a determination to remain in God's presence regardless of circumstances. Abraham's conversational approach to prayer, as seen in his intercession for Sodom in Genesis 18, reveals a persuasive yet respectful tone, highlighting the trust and devotion inherent in his dialogue with God. Through such consistent interaction, Abraham's relationship with God serves as a model of the joy and comfort found in walking daily with Him, ensuring that he was never alone in facing life's challenges.
Grace, Mercy, and Favor (Part Four): Favor to Live as God Lives
Sermon by Mark SchindlerAbraham's Relationship with God Abraham's journey with God reveals a profound growth in faith and humble submission over decades, shaping a relationship marked by trust and divine favor. In Genesis 13, Abraham demonstrated self-sacrifice for the sake of peace by allowing Lot to choose the seemingly better land, placing his own destiny into God's hands. As a result, God directed him to the Land of Promise, where he settled by the terebinth trees of Mamre in Hebron, establishing his base for life. Over the subsequent 23 years, Abraham grew in grace and knowledge, maintaining a humble attitude while actively engaging in a relationship with God. This period showed him that his own solutions to problems were insufficient compared to God's guidance. In Genesis 18, when the Lord appeared to Abraham by the terebinth trees of Mamre, Abraham's request for favor was not for personal gain but for the opportunity to serve, reflecting the mind of God. He ran to meet the three men, bowed to the ground, and pleaded, "My Lord, if I have now found favor in Your sight, do not pass on by Your servant." He eagerly provided water, rest, and food, personally serving Them under the tree. This act of service highlighted how his relationship with God had developed through humble submission and trembling at God's Word, earning God's favor. God's favor toward Abraham extended beyond mere kindness; it included revealing His plans and purposes. The Lord promised that Sarah would bear a son within nine months, despite their old age, affirming that nothing is too hard for Him. Furthermore, God chose not to hide His intentions regarding Sodom from Abraham, declaring, "I will not hide from Abraham what I am going to do." This openness underscored the depth of their relationship, built on mutual trust and Abraham's continued reliance on God's understanding rather than his own, as seen in his lifelong journey of faith. Abraham's story illustrates that divine favor grows through a lifetime of humble submission, resulting in a relationship where God holds nothing back, assuring fulfillment of His promises. His descendants were destined to become a great nation, through whom God would bless all nations, fulfilling the covenant made with him. This favor, earned through Abraham's actions and condition of heart, exemplifies the godly favor that develops from walking uprightly with God.
God as Father
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's Relationship with God Abraham's deep bond with God was pivotal in shaping his role as a father. God established a relationship with Abraham to ensure that His ways would be passed down through generations. As recorded in Genesis 18:19, God knew Abraham so that he might command his children and household to keep the way of the Lord, practicing righteousness and justice, thus fulfilling the promises made to him. This divine connection equipped Abraham with the ability to teach and train his son Isaac effectively, ensuring that God's principles endured. Through this relationship, Abraham not only influenced Isaac but set a foundation for future generations to follow God's path, demonstrating the profound impact of his communion with the Lord on his fatherhood.
The Glory of God (Part 3): From Glory to Glory
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God was marked by a profound closeness and friendship. God frequently appeared to Abraham, and they shared a bond so strong that Abraham is known as the friend of God. Whenever God visited, Abraham welcomed Him warmly, preparing food and engaging in heartfelt conversation. Their relationship was so intimate that God would not undertake significant actions, such as the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah where Abraham's nephew Lot resided, without first discussing it with Abraham. They even negotiated over the fate of the cities, with Abraham persuading God to spare them if only ten righteous people were found. This demonstrates the depth of their camaraderie and mutual respect, setting Abraham apart as a model of faithful interaction with God.
Image and Likeness of God (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAbraham's Relationship with God In Genesis 18:1-2, the Lord appeared to Abraham by the terebinth trees of Mamre as he sat in the tent door during the heat of the day. Abraham lifted his eyes and saw three men standing by him; he ran to meet them and bowed to the ground in reverence. He offered them water to wash their feet and rest under the tree, and prepared a meal of butter, milk, and a calf, which he set before them as they ate under the tree. They spoke to Abraham, asking about Sarah his wife, demonstrating a personal interaction. The Lord looked like a man, accepted Abraham's worship without rejection, and exhibited patience by waiting for the meal to be prepared while managing the universe, revealing not only form and shape but also qualities of patience and engagement in human affairs.
Leadership and Covenants (Part Seventeen)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Abraham's relationship with God stands as a profound example of faith and trust, marking a significant turn in biblical history. God called Abram, presenting him with a covenant filled with promises of immense magnitude, as seen in Genesis 12:1-7. God commanded Abram to leave his country, family, and father's house for a land He would show him, promising to make him a great nation, bless him, make his name great, and ensure blessings for those who bless him and curses for those who curse him, ultimately giving the land to his descendants. These divine assurances, known as the "I wills," contrast sharply with the self-serving declarations of Lucifer in Isaiah 14:12-14, highlighting God's unwavering commitment to His promises. Abram's response to God's call was one of immediate trust and obedience. Despite not being inherently wise, mighty, or noble, as noted in I Corinthians 1:26-31, Abram was chosen by God, reflecting the divine pattern of selecting the base and despised to fulfill His purpose. God shaped Abram from raw clay, as emphasized in Isaiah 51:1-2, transforming him into a great man through divine craftsmanship, not inherent merit. This transformation underscores that God creates what is truly good in those He calls, beginning His creative process from ground zero with every individual, including Abram. Abram's relationship with God earned him the unique title of God's friend, as affirmed in II Chronicles 20:7, Isaiah 41:8, and James 2:23. This designation was not due to a grand office or title but stemmed from his unparalleled obedience and trust in God. As John 15:12-15 illustrates, friendship with God develops through a lifetime of obedience and love, a standard Abram met at the highest level, even to the point of readiness to sacrifice his own flesh and blood. His faith, as Hebrews 11:6 states, was essential to pleasing God, making him a model for all who enter the same covenant. Known also as the father of the faithful, Abram's loyalty and steadfastness, highlighted in Luke 1:72-73, set a benchmark for devotion. His life demonstrates that trusting God, as he did, enables one to live up to the covenant's requirements. Through his example, God shows that success in His purpose is achievable, as Abram's faith allowed him to follow wherever God led, from Ur to Haran to Canaan, walking nearly 1,000 miles by faith. This journey symbolizes walking with God, a spiritual lesson for all believers, emphasizing that faith is the most critical characteristic for a successful spiritual life.
Why Israel? (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughAbraham's relationship with God was marked by a profound connection, where God knew Abraham and Abraham knew God. God worked with Abraham to develop qualities that enabled the patriarch to command his descendants to keep the way of the Lord. Through this relationship, Abraham became a conduit for godly character, passing down an affinity for God's way to his descendants, who later became known as Israel. God chose Abraham as the best candidate to build a model nation with desired qualities, recognizing him as the father of faith for all. Despite Abraham's imperfections and need for growth, his unique bond with God is highlighted by the singular request to sacrifice his only son, mirroring God's own sacrifice. This close relationship with Abraham also granted his descendants a special place in God's heart, forming the foundation of Israel's significance in God's purposes.
The Christian Fight (Part Six)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughAbraham's Relationship with God Hebrews 11:8 highlights Abraham's faith, noting that by faith he obeyed when called to go to a place he would receive as an inheritance, venturing out without knowing his destination. This obedience marked the beginning of a profound relationship with God, setting Abraham apart as the father of the faithful. His calling was a divine act of sovereign grace, where God personally selected him, redirecting his mind and life through revelation. This transformative experience compelled Abraham to make significant changes, breaking from his past life in Babylon on the plain of Shinar in the city of Ur, where he likely lived as a heathen with no prior conversion. God's direct intervention in Abraham's life awakened a new awareness of His truths, importance, and purpose. This relationship instilled in Abraham a reverence for God and a motivation to seek Him according to divine patterns, fundamentally altering his perceptions and desires. His life gained a new direction and Object toward which to walk, establishing new requirements to fulfill. As a prototype for all spiritual children, Abraham's journey with God, despite occasional shortcomings, set a vivid and superb example of faith-driven obedience and transformation.
Teaching the Good News of the Promise
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Abraham's Relationship with God Abraham's relationship with God stands as the foundation of the promises made to him and his descendants. God actively sought a deep, ongoing connection with Abraham, not treating him as an unthinking entity but as a sentient being capable of reciprocation. This bond, characterized by trust, was evident as Abraham became a friend of God, sharing a close relationship built on mutual confidence. God came to know Abraham intimately, understanding his thoughts and actions, as expressed in Genesis 18:19, where God declares, "For I know him," indicating a profound trust in Abraham's faithfulness. This reciprocal trust was pivotal. Abraham's faith in God's promises was unwavering; he believed God could even raise the dead, as shown in his willingness to sacrifice Isaac, confident in God's power to resurrect him. Likewise, God trusted Abraham, knowing he would command his children and household to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. This relationship was not merely transactional but covenantal, with God stressing His personal involvement through repeated use of personal pronouns, affirming that He Himself is the source of these promises. At its core, the relationship between God and Abraham was the starting point of the great nation promised, not founded on legal documents or conquests, but on a two-way trust. God's method of fulfilling His promises to Abraham hinges on this bond, as He declared that through Abraham teaching His law to his descendants, the promises would be realized. This dynamic relationship underscores that God's commitments are not impersonal; He remains the perpetual benefactor, ensuring that He will be their God, and they will be His people.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe New Covenant, which writes God's law onto the heart, in no way does away with any aspect of the law. Works do not justify us, they sanctify us.
The Christian Fight (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Christian life is a constant battle against our own human natures, this evil world, and spiritual foes who do not want to see us inherit the Kingdom.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughChrist will empower us, but will not live our lives for us. The marching orders for our pilgrimage derive from God's Word, containing His holy law.
Be Holy, as I am Holy
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingHoliness consists of not merely moral behavior, but a complete spiritual transformation, as exemplified by keeping His seventh day Sabbath.
Change and Hope
Sermon by John O. ReidAs God found it necessary to test our forbears, He allows us to go through grueling experiences (trials, tests, and temptations) for maximum growth.
Be Perfect
Sermonette by Mike FordBeing perfect refers to becoming mature in the image of God. Overcoming is not easy, but when Christ returns, we don't want just a participation trophy.
The Doctrine of Israel (Part Two): The Old Covenant
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod made the New Covenant because Jacob's offspring did not have what it took to fulfill the terms of the Old Covenant. The carnal mind is hostile to God's law.
Martha, Martha
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerMartha used her gifts, but to an excessive extreme. Jesus had to reel her in, setting her on a more productive course. We must use our gifts responsibly.
Facing Times of Stress: Grieved by Various Trials
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsFaith from God will be required to endure and profit from trials, bringing about character and genuineness of faith, as well as patience and trust in God.