Courageous Faith - Abraham’s Faith
Notes
Transcript
Handout
1 Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee:
2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.
4 So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.
5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.
6 And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land.
7 And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him.
8 And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Beth-el, and pitched his tent, having Beth-el on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord.
Lesson Abstract: This lesson explores Abraham’s courageous faith, highlighting his obedience to God's commands, his willingness to forsake familiar comforts, and his unwavering commitment to worship. Through Abraham’s example, believers discover how faith courageously confronts uncertainty, sacrifices personal comforts, and prioritizes God's worship. Abraham’s journey provides powerful insights and practical truths for living a life of faithful courage today.
Lesson Introduction
Abraham stands as a towering figure in biblical history, known widely as the "father of the faithful." (Romans 4:16) His life, marked by unwavering obedience and deep trust in God’s promises, exemplifies the essence of courageous faith. Born as Abram in Ur of the Chaldees, Abraham was called by God to leave behind his homeland, family, and familiar comforts to journey toward an unknown land that God would later reveal. Throughout his journey, Abraham continually demonstrated profound faith, becoming the patriarch through whom God established His covenant promises.
Hebrews 11:8–10 “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.”
Abraham's ministry was one of faithfulness, characterized by an intimate relationship with God marked by obedience and worship. (Romans 4:1-16). Despite trials, uncertainties, and tests—including the challenge of offering his son Isaac—Abraham remained steadfast, believing in God’s promises even when circumstances appeared impossible. His life, as chronicled in Genesis, serves as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of faith, and it provides believers today a model for trusting God wholeheartedly. Abraham's legacy as "the father of the faithful" is vividly illustrated in this study as we explore his courageous faith through God's command, his willingness to forsake the familiar, and his commitment to firmly worship God.
1. The Courage to Follow God's Command (Genesis 12:1-3)
Scripture: Genesis 12:1-3 (KJV)
"Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee:
And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed."
Explanation:
Abram demonstrated courageous faith by immediately responding to God’s command without clear details. God called Abram to leave the comfort, security, and familiarity of his homeland to journey toward an unknown destination. Abram's obedience reflected profound trust in God’s character and promises, believing that God’s plan was superior to his own comfort or security.
2. The Courage to Forsake the Familiar (Genesis 12:4-5)
Scripture: Genesis 12:4-5 (KJV)
"So Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.
And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came."
Explanation:
Abram’s faith gave him the courage to forsake his familiar surroundings and stable environment at an advanced age. His willingness to journey toward uncertainty emphasizes genuine reliance upon God’s faithfulness. Abram exemplified that courageous faith requires believers to step away from familiar routines, relationships, and resources to fully embrace God’s purpose and promise.
3. The Courage to Firmly Worship God (Genesis 12:6-8)
Scripture: Genesis 12:7-8 (KJV)
"And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.
And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, having Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the LORD, and called upon the name of the LORD."
Explanation:
Abram demonstrated courageous faith not only by moving physically, but by prioritizing worship spiritually. Even in unfamiliar territory, Abram built altars—symbolizing worship and devotion—to acknowledge and honor God's promises. This courage to worship reflected Abram's conviction that the foundation of faith is continually seeking, calling upon, and depending upon the Lord, regardless of circumstances.
I. The Courage to Follow God's Command (Genesis 12:1-3)
I. The Courage to Follow God's Command (Genesis 12:1-3)
1 Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee:
2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.
Abram displayed courageous faith when he obeyed God’s challenging command without hesitation. Genesis 12:1 declares, "Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee." Abram’s obedience exemplifies a willingness to trust God's word, even though the future remained uncertain. Courageous faith requires believers to respond immediately and unconditionally to God's calling.
Abram’s courage was bolstered by divine promises given in Genesis 12:2-3, where God assures Abram, "And I will make of thee a great nation...and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed." These promises provided a foundation for Abram’s courageous faith, highlighting the certainty of God's blessings when we obey His commands. Like Abram, believers today can confidently move forward, relying on God's word and trusting His faithful nature.
Courageous faith involves embracing God's plan even when human logic may falter. Abram did not have a detailed roadmap, but he had God's promises and presence. Likewise, believers are called to step out in faith, assured by scriptures like Psalm 37:23, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD." True courage lies not in knowing every step, but in faithfully following the One who guides each step.
Courage to Follow God’s Command
Abram courageously obeyed God’s command, demonstrating unwavering faith despite uncertainty. Genesis 12:1-3 underscores the importance of trusting in God's promises as we obediently follow His calling. Such courageous obedience unlocks divine blessings and reveals God's faithful character.
Courage to obey requires TRUST in God’s promises.
Hebrews 11:8 “8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.”
Courageous faith involves stepping into the UNKNOWN.
2 Corinthians 5:7 “7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)”
God's calling always accompanies His PRESENCE.
Exodus 33:14 “14 And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.”
Obedience brings blessings and establishes spiritual LEGACY.
Deuteronomy 28:2 “2 And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God.”
Faithful courage overcomes human logic with DIVINE wisdom.
Proverbs 3:5–6 “5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.”
II. The Courage to Forsake the Familiar (Genesis 12:4-5)
II. The Courage to Forsake the Familiar (Genesis 12:4-5)
4 So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.
5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.
Abram courageously left behind the familiarity of home and the security it provided, stepping into the unfamiliar solely because of God's command. Genesis 12:4 emphasizes Abram's decisive action: "So Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him." Abram, at seventy-five, was willing to forsake comfort, cultural roots, and familial relationships, illustrating how true faith courageously breaks away from comfort zones to follow divine directives.
Abram's decision to bring Sarai, Lot, and all their substance indicated total commitment to God's promise. Genesis 12:5 records, "And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son...and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan." Courageous faith is marked by comprehensive action—nothing was left behind as Abram fully trusted God’s provision.
Abram’s example teaches that forsaking the familiar, though difficult, aligns our lives with God’s higher purposes. Similarly, Matthew 19:29 affirms the blessing in forsaking earthly attachments: "And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters...shall receive an hundredfold." Courageous faith often calls believers to relinquish comfortable routines to embrace divine adventures.
The Courage to Forsake the Familiar
Abram’s faith gave him the courage to forsake his familiar surroundings and stable environment at an advanced age. His willingness to journey toward uncertainty emphasizes genuine reliance upon God’s faithfulness. Abram exemplified that courageous faith requires believers to step away from familiar routines, relationships, and resources to fully embrace God’s purpose and promise.
Forsaking the familiar is essential for spiritual GROWTH.
Luke 9:62 “62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Courageous faith demands TOTAL commitment.
Luke 14:33 “33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.”
God rewards SACRIFICES made in obedience.
Mark 10:29–30 “29 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, 30 But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.”
True faith embraces uncertainty trusting God’s faithfulness.
Isaiah 41:10 “10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: Be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; Yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Divine PROVISION accompanies obedience.
Philippians 4:19 “19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
III. The Courage to Firmly Worship God (Genesis 12:6-8)
III. The Courage to Firmly Worship God (Genesis 12:6-8)
6 And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land.
7 And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him.
8 And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Beth-el, and pitched his tent, having Beth-el on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord.
Abram exemplified courageous faith by maintaining worship as a priority, even amidst unfamiliar surroundings. Genesis 12:7 shows Abram’s immediate response to God's revelation: "And there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him." Building altars symbolizes dedicated worship and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, crucial for sustaining courageous faith.
In Genesis 12:8, Abram again builds an altar, "and called upon the name of the LORD." This repeated act of worship underscores Abram’s courage to publicly and consistently acknowledge God. Courageous faith involves ongoing worship and reverence toward God, especially in uncertain seasons.
Abram's worship demonstrates reliance on God’s presence and promises as his ultimate assurance and strength. His faith-filled worship serves as an example, urging believers to courageously build spiritual altars in their lives, making worship a cornerstone of their faith journey. Psalm 29:2 reinforces this, "Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness."
The Courage to Firmly Worship God
Abram demonstrated courageous faith not only by moving physically, but by prioritizing worship spiritually. Even in unfamiliar territory, Abram built altars—symbolizing worship and devotion—to acknowledge and honor God's promises. This courage to worship reflected Abram's conviction that the foundation of faith is continually seeking, calling upon, and depending upon the Lord, regardless of circumstances.
Courageous faith expresses itself through CONSISTENT worship.
John 4:23–24 “23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”
Worship STRENGTHENS believers in uncertain times.
Psalm 95:6–7 “6 O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker. 7 For he is our God; And we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,”
Faithful worship PUBLICLY honors God’s authority
Psalm 96:8–9 “8 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: Bring an offering, and come into his courts. 9 O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: Fear before him, all the earth.”
Spiritual worship ANCHORS faith and ensures divine fellowship
Psalm 100:4–5 “4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise: Be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; And his truth endureth to all generations.”
Worship continually ALIGNS believers with God’s purpose
Romans 12:1–2 “1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
