The Journey of Faith: Stepping into the Unknown

Bible Passage: Genesis 12:1–9

Summary: In Genesis 12:1-9, God calls Abram to leave his homeland and promises to make him into a great nation. This passage illustrates the beginning of Abram’s journey of faith, where he steps into the unknown solely on God’s promise.

Application: This passage encourages Christians to trust God’s calling and to step out in faith even when the path is unclear. It reminds believers that faith often requires leaving comfort zones and trusting God's promises, which is vital in a world filled with uncertainty.

Teaching: The teaching from this sermon will focus on the importance of responding to God's call with obedience and faith. Abram's journey exemplifies how God rewards faith and obedience, even amidst fear and the unknown.

How this passage could point to Christ: In a broader biblical context, this passage points to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise to bless all nations through Abram’s lineage. Jesus, a descendant of Abraham, embodies the promise of salvation for all, extending the call of faith to all believers.

Big Idea: Faith requires stepping out in obedience to God's promises, even into the unknown, trusting that He will guide us on our journey.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the socio-historical context of Abram's call. Look into issues of language translation in Genesis 12, particularly regarding the nuances of God's promises to Abram. Additionally, delve into the implications of faith in the ancient Near Eastern context, which may enhance your application. Use your Logos library to examine commentaries that discuss the theological significance of Abram's covenant and how it shapes our understanding of faith today.

1. Call to Courageous Faith

Genesis 12:1-3

You could highlight how God's call to Abram in Genesis 12:1-3 invites him into a journey with no clear destination.

Land, family and inheritance were among the most significant elements in ancient society. For farmers and herdsmen land was their livelihood. For city dwellers land represented their political identity. Descendants represented the future. Children provided for their parents in old age and enabled the family line to extend another generation.

Old Testament (12:1-9: Abraham Travels to Canaan)

When Abram gave up his place in his father’s household, he forfeited his security. He was putting his survival, his identity, his future and his security in the hands of the Lord

This segment underscores faith as a venture into the unknown, driven by trust in God's promises. Perhaps explore how modern believers, like Abram, are often called to leave behind familiar and comfortable situations in order to pursue God's purpose. Consider emphasizing the centrality of God's promise to Abram, as it echoes in Christ's call to all to follow Him in faith, trusting His eternal plan even without full knowledge of the path ahead.

According to Ac 7:2, the LORD spoke to Abram while he was still in Mesopotamia (Gn 11:31). God gave Abram a one-verb command with four aspects to it. Abram was to go out from (1) his land, (2) his relatives, and (3) his father’s house, (4) to a land chosen by God. Obedience to God often means leaving one thing in order to receive something else even better. Saying I will five times, God unilaterally promised Abram progeny, prominence, and protection.

Here om verse 3, Three promises were based on God’s call for Abram to leave his land: (a) a great nation, (b) a blessing for Abram, and (c) a great name (v. 2). These promises would enable him to “be a blessing” (the second imperative, v. 2). Based on this obedience were God’s three promises to: (a) bless those who blessed him, (b) curse anyone who would treat him lightly, and (c) bless the families of the earth through him (v. 3). To bless or curse Abram was to bless or curse Abram’s God

2. Obedience in Action

Genesis 12:4-6

Maybe examine Abram's immediate obedience despite the uncertainties of his journey, as described in Genesis 12:4-6.

CSB Study Bible: Notes Chapter 12

Having migrated with his father’s household from Ur (11:31), Abram stayed an uncertain amount of time in Haran. Since Terah lived 145 years after the birth of Abram (11:26, 32) and Abram was seventy-five years old when he left Haran, Abram literally fulfilled the command to leave his father’s house (v. 1). It later becomes clear that, at this point, Abram did not fully understand God’s commands and promises. In matters of faith, understanding often follows obedience

This portion can inspire listeners to respond to God's call with action, illustrating that faith is not only belief but also obedience. Perhaps discuss the importance of taking the first step, trusting that God will continue to guide and reveal His plans. In Christ, we see the perfect example of obedience to the Father's will, reminding us of the faithful steps required in our spiritual walk.

3. Worship at Every Stage

Genesis 12:7-9

Consider focusing on the significance of Abram's worship upon reaching Canaan in Genesis 12:7-9, as he builds altars to the Lord.

Altars function as sacrificial platforms. Their construction can also mark the introduction of the worship of a particular god in a new land. Abram’s setting up of altars in each place where he camped defines areas to be occupied in the “Promised Land” and establishes these places as religious centers in later periods

This act symbolizes recognition of God's presence and faithfulness at each stage of the journey. Perhaps encourage your listeners to cultivate a habit of worship and gratitude in their own faith journeys. Tie this to the broader Christological theme by reflecting on how our worship today is a response to Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice, forming a living testament to our trust in God’s promises being fulfilled in Christ.

This is the first of three times Scripture indicates that the Lord physically appeared to Abram (cp. 17:1; 18:1). The Lord’s promise to give the land of Canaan to Abram’s offspring is the single most repeated affirmation in the Torah. At least thirty-seven references are made to it in the books of Moses. The altar Abram built at Shechem is the first of four he is said to have built; others were set up between Bethel and Ai (v. 8), at Hebron (13:18), and at Mt. Moriah

When Abram called on the name of the LORD here, he identified himself as a true member of the godly line of Seth (4:26). This is the first of three occasions on which Abram is said to do this (13:4; 21:3).

What does God promise Abram in Genesis 12:1-3?

How does Abram's immediate obedience inspire our own responses to God’s calls?

Why is it significant that Abram builds altars as an act of worship upon reaching Canaan?

What challenges might Abram have faced when leaving his homeland, and how does that relate to challenges we face today?

How can we recognize God's call in our lives as Abram did?

What does 'leaving comfort zones' mean in relation to faith, based on Abram’s example?

In what ways does faith require both belief and action, as demonstrated by Abram?

How can we make worship a priority at each stage of our faith journeys, similar to Abram's practice?

In your workplace, you may be grappling with a challenging ethical decision that could affect your career. Observing God's call in faith means staying true to your principles, even if it jeopardizes your advancement. Take a

In engaging with diverse communities in public life, you might face challenges in understanding others' perspectives. To observe God’s call for empathy and love, make an effort to attend local events or forums that focus on cultural exchange or social issues. Aim to listen and learn rather than respond defensively. Practice asking thoughtful questions, and share how your faith shapes your vision for community. By actively engaging in dialogue, you foster goodwill and show God’s love, exemplifying what it means to be a peacemaker in a divided society.

If you're feeling unfulfilled or stagnant in your job, it may be challenging to observe God’s call in your career. Consider initiating a ‘faith at work’ group where colleagues can come together to discuss their values, struggles, and how faith intersects with their professional lives. This can lead to meaningful conversations about purpose and service, allowing you to stay aligned with God’s promises and empower others to thrive through faith. Engage in prayer before meetings and encourage everyone to share ways they can honor God in their daily tasks.

moment to pray for wisdom and guidance. Then, document your values and how they align with your decision. When a tough choice arises, reference this guide. This not only reinforces your commitment but also acts as a testimony to your colleagues, showcasing how faith can lead to integrity in the workplace.

As a student, navigating peer pressure can often lead you away from God’s call in your life. When faced with the temptation to compromise your values or engage in unhealthy competition, remember that you can find support in your faith community. Join or start a small group at school focused on faith and integrity. Share your struggles and pray together for strength to stand firm in your convictions. Becoming an active participant in a community that reinforces positive values helps you make choices that honor God and yourself.

In your children's church class, you might notice some friends struggling to participate or feel left out, which can be disheartening. Encourage the children to observe God's call to love and include others. Organize a day where they intentionally invite someone to join their activities who might feel isolated. Teach them through scripture, like 1 John 4:19, to show love actively. This simple action nurtures accountability and fosters a spirit of community that reflects God’s inclusive love while helping those who feel lonely.

In public life, especially amidst divisive discussions on social media, observing God’s call can feel daunting. You might find yourself overwhelmed by negativity or the urge to engage aggressively. Instead, choose to be a peacemaker by actively sharing posts that promote kindness and understanding based on Gospel principles. When someone disagrees, respond with grace rather than hostility. Consider starting a social media challenge where you daily post comments that reflect a loving, Christian worldview, encouraging others to do the same. This can foster a more respectful discourse.

As a teenager living at home, conflicts with siblings or parents can make it hard to observe God's call of love and respect. It’s easy to react with frustration or anger. Instead, when tensions rise, pause and take a moment to pray for understanding and patience. Suggest a family meeting where everyone can express their feelings in a God-honoring way. Use this time to read a Bible verse about love and forgiveness together, encouraging open dialog, which fosters an environment of faith and obedience in familial relationships.