Called to Courageous Change

English Standard Version Chapter 11

8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God. 11 By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as many as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.

Abraham's willingness to trust God against impossible odds demonstrates a model of faith that embraces obedience, hopes in God's promises, and endures through trials.

Application: This sermon can help Christians understand that faith is not merely belief but an active trust in God's character and promises. By looking at Abraham's life, the audience can learn to apply faith in their own challenges, leading to transformative experiences and deepening their relationship with God.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that true faith is characterized by action, persistence, and a deep trust in God's word, encouraging believers to emulate Abraham's faith in their personal journeys and to recognize that God rewards steadfast faithfulness.

How this passage could point to Christ: Abraham's faith points to the ultimate promise fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the cornerstone of our faith. Just as Abraham believed God and it was counted to him as righteousness, so now we are justified through faith in Christ, fulfilling God's covenantal plan of salvation for humanity.

Big Idea: The faith of Abraham shows us that trust in God leads to divine fulfillment and blessing, urging us to develop a faith that acts and perseveres despite life’s uncertainties.

Recommended Study: Consider using Logos to conduct a thorough study on the theological implications of Abraham's covenant with God, examining both the cultural context of his time and the New Testament references to his faith. Exploring commentaries on Genesis 12-22 can provide insight into the operational nature of faith and its foundations in God's promises. Additionally, look at typological connections between Abraham and Christ to emphasize the continuity of faith throughout scripture.

1. Called to Courageous Change

Genesis 12:1-3

You could illustrate how Abraham’s journey begins with a divine call that requires leaving his comfort zone. Emphasize this as a mirrored call in our Christian walk—to trust and act upon God’s promises without seeing immediate results. This encourages believers to step out in faith, trusting in God’s guidance, similar to how Abraham did.