But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.
Leading up to the Theophany of God in our text tonight, Abraham has had six promises by God concerning his offspring:
Gen. 12:1-3,7 - Abram’s initial call.
Gen. 13:14-17 - Lot’s departure from Abram.
Gen. 15:4-5; 13-21 - The vision of God’s covenant.
Gen. 17 - The covenant of circumcision
God’s presence moved Abram to service (vs. 1-8)
Three times the patriarch Abram is going to be described as running.
Abram’s service required:
Observation v. 4 (Luke 7:44-48)
Intentionality v. 5
Effort vs. 6-8
A transition takes place in Abram’s life from rest (v. 1) to service (v. 8)
