Due to some technical problems, coupled with a speaking event, I have not kept up with my sermon postings here. But, I am trying to catch up! This portion of the series comes from a very exciting and frightening time in Abram’s life. Within the text is a story of intrigue and action, adrenaline and fear, courage against all odds, and then utter reliance on the One who alone can calm our fears.
The first sermon comes from Genesis 14, where Abram goes into battle against a coalition of destructive kings – and wins! He then meets with kings who represent the power of the world, and the power of God. Here is the link to that message.
We then went to chapter 15, verses 1 to 6, where God comes to a disillusioned and troubled Abram shortly after the battle. Abram had followed God from the comfort of Ur to a nomadic life in Canaan. Abram may have been frightened that his days anonymity were over. Everyone now knew of Abram the Hebrew. They knew of his strength. They knew of his wealth. And they new he was a man without a country. And Abram knew that, as a man in his mid 80′s, he still did not have the promised seed. God comes and reassures him that God was his shield and exceedingly great reward, and gives him hope that a child will come. On this powerful illustration, Abram sees beyond just his own son and shows faith in the Son of God. This is a beautiful portion of Scripture. He is a link to the sermon I preached on that text.
And then, last week, Resurrection Sunday, we completed Genesis 15, focusing on the covenant God made with Abram. This is again a powerful section of Scripture rich with imagery and symbolism that helps us take confidence and assurance in our God. God reveals His character as a sovereign, honest, patient, and merciful Creator. And God establishes a covenant that is of His design alone. It is a covenant where God calls curses upon Himself if the covenant is not fulfilled – in effect, God says that He will fulfill the promise of the covenant even if it costs Him His life!
And, friends, it did. For God the Son, the Second Person of the Godhead, died on a Cross of wood for sinners like you and I. He died that we might live. He became the curse for us, paying a price we could not pay. And He calls all men to simply come to Him in faith. And, even though in our rebellion we would rather spit in His face, He gives His grace to us, He gives us faith. And He saves us by His mighty Hand.
I pray this message is an encouragement to you. Our assurance in God’s promises and God’s salvation is not found in ourselves, it is only found in Him. You can download that sermon here.
If you ever in the Peoria area, I hope you can come and visit with us for worship. We begin praising our King at 10:00 am. And we have arguably the best meal in Central Illinois right after worship. Stay for fellowship!
Providence Church meets at 401 S Carol Ave, Morton, IL 61550.
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