Calling on the LORD

Bible Passage: Genesis 4:26

Summary: Genesis 4:26 highlights the significant moment when men began to call upon the name of the LORD, marking the establishment of divine worship in human history.

Application: This sermon helps Christians understand the importance of calling on the Lord in prayer, worship, and everyday life, especially during times of struggle and uncertainty, encouraging them to cultivate a personal relationship with God.

Teaching: The sermon will teach that calling upon the Lord is not just a ritual, but a heartfelt communication that connects believers to God’s power and presence in their lives.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the broader context, this theme overarches the entire biblical narrative, culminating in Jesus, who is the ultimate mediator through whom humanity can invoke the name of the LORD.

Big Idea: The essence of worship is found in our earnest call upon the LORD, a practice that is foundational for sustaining faith and nurturing spiritual connection.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, it might be beneficial to explore the historical context of worship in Genesis using your Logos library. Investigate how this phrase is used throughout Scripture and its evolution, examining any exegetical tensions that may arise from differing interpretations. Additionally, consider the significance of communal versus individual worship as represented in this text.

Genesis 4:26 KJV 1900

26 And to Seth, to him also there was born a son; and he called his name Enos: then began men to call upon the name of the Lord.

When George Washington took command of the Continental Army, he faced immense challenges, yet he would often be seen praying fervently for strength and guidance. There’s a story of him kneeling in the snow, praying for his men’s protection and unity. This act of humble faith reminds us that prayer is not about eloquence but surrendering our insecurities and acknowledging our dependence on God. It illustrates how prayer can instill hope and direction in dire situations.

How many of you know that names have meaning?

Seth’s name means: appointed one

Enos’ name means: mankind.

Show the list of name meanings in the book of Genesis that points to the gospel.

1. Significance of the First Call

Genesis 4:26a

Maybe begin by exploring the significance of the moment when men first began to call on the name of the LORD. This reflects a foundational period in spiritual history where humanity recognized the need for divine intervention and guidance. Consider how calling on the Lord signifies an intentional act of faith, a choice to turn away from self-reliance and towards divine reliance. This encourages believers today to establish the practice of calling on the Lord in their own lives as an act of submission and trust.

Speak about the context of Cain killing Abel, which could have been a trigger on which there was a known need for the LORD that beforehand, did not seem to man to be necessary.

What historical context is important to understand the significance of the first call upon the LORD?

The fall of man.

Cain killing Abel.

Why is the act of calling on the LORD considered foundational for sustaining faith?

When we stop calling on the LORD in prayer, we begin to slide away in our faith. We depend on Him less, we trust Him less, and we trust in ourselves.

What does calling upon the name of the LORD reveal about humanity's need for divine intervention?

2. Foundation for Worship

Genesis 4:26b

Perhaps delve into the idea that calling upon the name of the LORD established a new form of worship and relationship between humans and God. Highlight how this practice laid a foundation for communal worship and a collective identity centered around divine allegiance. This can inspire believers to appreciate that their prayers and petitions are part of a long tradition of divine worship, enhancing their understanding of the purpose and power of prayer in building their faith community.

What does the phrase 'calling upon the name of the LORD' imply about the nature of true worship?

What role does communal worship play in enhancing individual spiritual practices?

Why is it important to understand the transformation of worship practices from Genesis to the New Testament?

It will change our perspective of God. When we recognize that we are not worshiping through the sacrificial system but have access to God through the sacrifice of Christ. This will transform our hearts and minds to one of gratitude and love towards God.

3. Strength in Calling

Genesis 4:26c

You could focus on how calling upon the LORD serves as a form of spiritual strength and encouragement during personal and communal trials. Emphasize that this act is not just about seeking help but fostering a deeper relationship with God. This point could help listeners connect with the message that prayer as calling on God provides spiritual sustenance and courage, especially in overcoming personal and communal struggles in life's journey.

How can personal struggles influence the way we call on the Lord?

How does calling on the name of the LORD reflect a choice between self-reliance and divine reliance?

It is a choice that goes against one’s pride and independence. For me, I often have to remind myself that I need to depend on God and not attempt to ‘make’ things happen.

It involves me waiting, being patient, and trusting that God is working, not me forcing it to happen.

In what ways can prayer serve as spiritual strength during challenging times?

I am weak. Without prayer, I would fail, my faith would wane and I would crumble. For me, prayer is an conversation in which I cast my heart and mind onto the LORD and bring my burdens. There I find rest and peace knowing that God is able to provide strength I do not possess.

How can the example of George Washington's prayer life inspire modern believers?

Leaders lead by example, we are all leaders to someone who is looking up to us.

It should inspire us all to live a life that demonstrates the habit, and power of prayer in our daily lives. This will inspire others around us who see us pray.

In what specific ways can prayer foster deeper community ties among believers?

We grow a deeper love toward one another.

4. Christ Our Mediator

Genesis 4:26

Maybe conclude with a Christ-centered perspective, connecting the idea of calling on the LORD in Genesis to Jesus Christ, who fully embodies the mediating presence that connects humanity with God. Reflect on how Jesus is the ultimate expression of this foundational practice, emphasizing that through Him, believers can experience the most profound connection to the divine. This can encourage followers of Christ to continually seek His presence and grace through heartfelt prayer.

Why is it significant to recognize Jesus as the ultimate mediator in our prayers?

Because before Jesus’ sacrifice we were bound to a system that demanded perfection and access only through a system of priests. Today we have access through Jesus to the Father.