In Genesis 13:1-14:24, Abram and Lot separate, with Abram blessing Lot as he trusts YHWH’s promises to be fulfilled with him regardless of what land he takes. Then, Abram doubles that blessing by rescuing Lot as neighboring forces capture Lot and his family. This message will talk about how God is at work in Abram’s family and how Abram grasped the call that he was blessed in order to be a blessing. This will include some reflection on Melchizedek as bringing God’s blessing, while also being a Christ figure.
(Genesis 13:1-14:24)
Sermon Outline
“So Abram went to live near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron, where he pitched his tents. There he built an altar to the Lord.” (Genesis 13:18)
God’s generous calling (Genesis 12:1-3)
God’s generous restoration (Genesis 12:20-13:4)
Generous faith in peace-making (Genesis 13:5-8)
Generous faith decision-making (Genesis 13:9-18)
Generous faith in risk-taking (Genesis 14:13-16)
Generous faith in material gain (Genesis 14:17-24)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- What do you think it looks like to be generous? When was a time you experienced the generosity of others in your life?
- This week, we continue the “Faith Life” series at Eastbrook by looking at the way Abraham responds to God’s goodness as displayed in Genesis, chapters 13 and 14. Ask God to speak to you before reading this portion of Scripture aloud.
- What is the cause of the conflict between Abraham and Lot in Genesis 13:5-7? (It is important to see here that God’s promises in Genesis 12:1-3 are already being fulfilled in abundance.)
- What do you find most remarkable about Abraham’s response to Lot, who is both younger than him and dependent upon his generosity, in Genesis 13:8-13?
- Following the separation between Abraham and Lot, God affirms His previous promises (see Genesis 12:1-3) to Abraham in Genesis 13:14-18. What do you think this meant to Abraham?
- In contrast to Abraham’s compromise in Genesis 12:10-20, chapter 13 is bookended by Abraham calling upon God at altars he has built (13:4, 18). Why do you think this is important given all that transpires in Genesis 13?
- When did you have to make a clear decision to rely upon God in the face of challenging circumstances? What happened?
- What were some of the risks that Abraham takes to assist his nephew, Lot, in Genesis 14:1-16?
- Contrast the response of the King of Sodom and Melchizedek, the King of Salem, in Genesis 14:17-24. What is God doing for Abraham in this section?
Response: Extend Generosity
These two chapters show Abraham stepping out in radical generosity toward Lot because of God’s generous goodness toward him. Take a moment to reflect on how you could extend generosity in some of your specific relationships this week. If you are alone, write down the names of people God is speaking to you about. Commit to pray for them and seek out ways to bless them this week. If you are with a small group, share together about those you sense God is asking you to be generous with this week. Pray for those people as you conclude your time with this study.