Abraham's Intercession: A Model of Divine Revelation
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, First Baptist family. Today, we delved into Genesis 18:16-33, exploring the profound encounter between Abraham and God. This passage reveals how being in God's presence exposes our true selves and our faith. Abraham's interaction with God, especially his intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah, teaches us about the nature of divine revelation and the heart of a believer.
Abraham's journey began with a visit from three men, one of whom was the pre-incarnate Christ. Initially unaware of their divine nature, Abraham's hospitality and subsequent realization of God's presence set the stage for a deeper revelation. God chose to disclose His plans to Abraham, not only to inform him but to involve him in His divine purposes. This disclosure was meant to be proclaimed to others and to guide Abraham and his descendants in righteousness and justice.
As God revealed His intention to judge Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham's response was telling. He interceded passionately, not just for the righteous but for the entire city, demonstrating a heart aligned with God's glory and compassion for people. Abraham's boldness in prayer, appealing to God's nature, underscores the importance of knowing God's character to pray effectively.
This passage challenges us to reflect on our own encounters with God. Do we listen when God reveals His plans through His Word? Do we respond with a heart for His glory and a love for others? Abraham's transformation from self-centeredness to a God-centered and others-focused life serves as a model for us. As believers, our time in God's presence should lead us to care deeply for His glory, the redeemed, and those far from Him.
### Key Takeaways
1. Divine Revelation as a Gift: God’s disclosure of His plans to Abraham highlights that divine revelation is a gift meant to be shared. Abraham was chosen to proclaim God's standards and judgments to a lost world, emphasizing the importance of sharing God's Word with others. This revelation is not just for personal edification but for the benefit of the entire community. [40:24]
2. Obedience Stemming from Revelation: God reveals His plans to guide us into obedience. Abraham was called to lead his family in righteousness and justice, showing that divine revelation demands a response of faithful living. Our actions should reflect our beliefs, and true obedience is the overflow of our faith in God. [43:35]
3. Intercession Reflects God’s Heart: Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah reveals a heart that mirrors God’s compassion and justice. He pleaded for the city based on God’s nature, showing that effective prayer appeals to God’s character. This teaches us to pray with boldness and confidence, knowing who God is and what He values. [54:05]
4. A Heart for the Redeemed and the Lost: Abraham’s concern for both the righteous and the wicked in Sodom demonstrates a balanced heart for God’s people and those far from Him. As believers, we are called to care deeply for our fellow Christians and to intercede for the salvation of the lost, reflecting God’s love for all humanity. [56:48]
5. Transformation Through God’s Presence: Abraham’s transformation from self-centeredness to a God-centered life illustrates the profound impact of being in God’s presence. Our encounters with God should lead to a 180-degree change in our priorities, focusing on God’s glory and the well-being of others. This transformation is a testament to the power of divine revelation and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. [34:00]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[06:35] - Church Announcements
[19:38] - Prayer and Intercession
[21:32] - Greeting Time
[28:29] - Introduction to Genesis 18
[30:07] - Abraham’s Encounter with God
[31:30] - God’s Revelation to Abraham
[32:54] - Abraham’s Intercession for Sodom
[34:00] - Transformation in Abraham’s Life
[35:27] - God’s Righteous Judgment
[36:55] - Abraham’s Bold Prayer
[38:04] - Listening to God’s Revelation
[39:13] - Divine Disclosure and Obedience
[40:24] - Proclaiming God’s Standards
[43:35] - Living Righteously
[45:49] - Spending Time in God’s Word
[47:21] - Properly Expounding Scripture
[49:29] - Responding to God’s Revelation
[51:28] - The Nature of Righteousness
[54:05] - Caring for God’s Glory
[56:48] - Heart for the Redeemed and the Lost
[58:16] - The Gospel Message
[01:00:46] - Love God, Love Others
[01:02:39] - Pleading for God’s Action
[01:04:16] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Genesis 18:16-33
### Observation Questions
1. What was Abraham's initial reaction when he realized he was in the presence of God? How did his behavior change? ([28:29])
2. What specific request did Abraham make to God regarding the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah? ([35:27])
3. How did God respond to Abraham's intercessions for Sodom and Gomorrah? ([36:55])
4. What does the passage reveal about the nature of divine revelation and its purpose according to the sermon? ([39:13])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why did God choose to reveal His plans to Abraham, and what does this tell us about the nature of divine revelation? ([40:24])
2. How does Abraham's intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah reflect his understanding of God's character? ([54:05])
3. In what ways did Abraham's transformation from self-centeredness to a God-centered life manifest in his actions and prayers? ([34:00])
4. How does the sermon suggest that believers should respond to divine revelation in their own lives? ([45:49])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt you were in God's presence. How did it impact your actions and priorities? ([34:00])
2. Abraham interceded for Sodom and Gomorrah with boldness and confidence. How can you incorporate boldness in your own prayer life, especially when praying for others? ([54:05])
3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing God's revelation with others. How can you actively share what God has revealed to you with your community? ([42:25])
4. Abraham's transformation led him to care deeply for both the righteous and the lost. Identify one person in your life who is far from God. How can you intercede for them this week? ([56:48])
5. The sermon challenges us to live out our faith through obedience. What is one area in your life where you feel God is calling you to greater obedience? How will you respond? ([43:35])
6. How can you ensure that your time in God's Word leads to genuine transformation in your life, similar to Abraham's transformation? ([45:49])
7. Abraham's prayers were rooted in his understanding of God's character. What steps can you take to deepen your knowledge of God's attributes to enhance your prayer life? ([55:26])
Devotional
Day 1: Divine Revelation as a Gift
God’s disclosure of His plans to Abraham highlights that divine revelation is a gift meant to be shared. Abraham was chosen to proclaim God's standards and judgments to a lost world, emphasizing the importance of sharing God's Word with others. This revelation is not just for personal edification but for the benefit of the entire community. Abraham’s encounter with God and the subsequent revelation of His plans for Sodom and Gomorrah were not meant to be kept secret. Instead, they were intended to be shared, guiding Abraham and his descendants in righteousness and justice. This teaches us that when God reveals something to us, it is not just for our own benefit but for the edification and guidance of others as well.
As believers, we are entrusted with the responsibility of sharing God’s Word and His revelations with those around us. This can be through teaching, preaching, or simply living out the principles of the Bible in our daily lives. The divine revelations we receive are meant to be a light in the darkness, guiding others towards God’s truth and love. Reflect on how you can share the revelations God has given you with your community, and consider the impact it can have on their lives. [40:24]
Amos 3:7 (ESV): "For the Lord God does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets."
Reflection: Think of a recent revelation or insight you have received from God. How can you share this with someone in your community today to encourage and guide them?
Day 2: Obedience Stemming from Revelation
God reveals His plans to guide us into obedience. Abraham was called to lead his family in righteousness and justice, showing that divine revelation demands a response of faithful living. Our actions should reflect our beliefs, and true obedience is the overflow of our faith in God. When God disclosed His plans to Abraham, it was not just to inform him but to involve him in His divine purposes. This involvement required Abraham to act in accordance with the revelation he received, leading his family and descendants in the ways of righteousness and justice.
Obedience to God is a natural response to understanding His will and character. When we receive divine revelation, it should prompt us to align our lives with God’s standards. This means making decisions and taking actions that reflect our faith and trust in Him. Consider how you can live out the revelations you have received in your daily life, ensuring that your actions are a testament to your faith in God. [43:35]
James 1:22 (ESV): "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
Reflection: Reflect on a specific area of your life where you need to align your actions with God’s revelation. What steps can you take today to live out this obedience?
Day 3: Intercession Reflects God’s Heart
Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah reveals a heart that mirrors God’s compassion and justice. He pleaded for the city based on God’s nature, showing that effective prayer appeals to God’s character. This teaches us to pray with boldness and confidence, knowing who God is and what He values. Abraham’s boldness in interceding for Sodom and Gomorrah was rooted in his understanding of God’s character—His justice and mercy. Abraham’s prayers were not just about saving the righteous but also about appealing to God’s compassionate nature.
Effective intercession requires us to know God’s heart and to pray in alignment with His will. When we intercede for others, we should do so with the confidence that God hears us and cares deeply about the people we are praying for. Reflect on how you can intercede for others with a heart that mirrors God’s compassion and justice, and consider the impact of such prayers on the lives of those you are praying for. [54:05]
1 Timothy 2:1-2 (ESV): "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who needs prayer. How can you intercede for them today, appealing to God’s character and compassion?
Day 4: A Heart for the Redeemed and the Lost
Abraham’s concern for both the righteous and the wicked in Sodom demonstrates a balanced heart for God’s people and those far from Him. As believers, we are called to care deeply for our fellow Christians and to intercede for the salvation of the lost, reflecting God’s love for all humanity. Abraham’s intercession was not limited to the righteous; he also showed concern for the wicked, demonstrating a heart that mirrors God’s love for all people. This balanced concern is a model for us as believers, reminding us to care for both the redeemed and the lost.
Our prayers and actions should reflect a deep love for our fellow Christians and a compassionate concern for those who are far from God. This means actively seeking opportunities to support and encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ while also reaching out to those who do not yet know Him. Reflect on how you can cultivate a balanced heart that cares for both the redeemed and the lost, and consider practical ways to demonstrate this love in your daily life. [56:48]
2 Peter 3:9 (ESV): "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance."
Reflection: Identify one person who is a believer and one who is not. How can you show love and support to both individuals today, reflecting God’s heart for the redeemed and the lost?
Day 5: Transformation Through God’s Presence
Abraham’s transformation from self-centeredness to a God-centered life illustrates the profound impact of being in God’s presence. Our encounters with God should lead to a 180-degree change in our priorities, focusing on God’s glory and the well-being of others. This transformation is a testament to the power of divine revelation and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Abraham’s life was profoundly changed by his encounters with God, shifting his focus from his own desires to God’s purposes and the needs of others. This transformation is a powerful example of how being in God’s presence can change our hearts and priorities.
As believers, our time spent with God should lead to a noticeable change in our lives. This means prioritizing God’s glory and the well-being of others above our own interests. Reflect on how your encounters with God have transformed your life, and consider how you can continue to grow in this transformation, allowing God’s presence to shape your priorities and actions. [34:00]
2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent encounter with God. How has it transformed your priorities and actions? What steps can you take today to continue growing in this transformation?
Quotes
1. "As a result of this revelation, it causes Abraham to respond in a way that shows who he is now that he has been set apart. He cares about God’s glory, he cares about the righteous, he cares about those that are far from God. And as a result of this revelation, it causes him to intercede on all of those things or for all those things because he knew who God was, because he knew God’s nature, he petitioned God to move to do things that he knew only God could do." [32:54] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "When we find ourselves in the presence of God as believers, people who have been set apart by the Spirit of God, we begin to care more for God and for the people that he places around us. How we respond after being in God’s presence, it exposes our faith, it exposes who we are and who we are like. That’s what I want you to get as we walk through this text. You can easily find out who a person is by the way they respond to these things we’ve been talking about and what we’re going to talk about today." [34:00] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God’s disclosing this to Abraham because he’s Abraham supposed to tell everyone else about it. He’s supposed to tell him the righteous standards of God. He’s supposed to tell them that God does indeed punish wickedness. God gives Abraham divine revelations so that he’ll proclaim it to a lost world. Understand that’s one of the reasons. Look at the second reason verse 19 for I have chosen him that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice so that the Lord may bring to Abraham what he has promised." [42:25] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When we receive it, when we find ourselves in his presence, what does that revelation expose about you? For believers this morning, as you hear the bad, the worst, the good, the best news of God’s revelation to us, hopefully it causes you to respond in a way that speaks. To see God glorified. Hopefully, hopefully you’re petitioning him to move in such a way that shows your great love for him. But hopefully you’re, you’re petitioning him to move on behalf of those around you, those that are redeemed, those that are lost because of the heart that you have for people made in the name of God." [59:39] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Does your life today, does it show your great love for God and for your neighbor? But being, being in God’s presence, it exposes your faith. Do you, do you stand there at the mountainside looking down? Do you stand there with God and plead for him to act according to his nature? See the picture that he, that we’re given here. Sodom. It’s a picture of the world. As we read about some of the things next week, it’s just like our world. Some of the things that God judges them for is happening in our country." [01:01:50] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "For unbelievers this morning, you’ve heard God’s revelation to us that you’re a sinner. There’s absolutely nothing you could do about it. You’ve heard that Jesus, who is God, came to us, died for us, took on our sins, that it’s all a free gift for those that repent and believe in him. You’ve heard those things. My question for all of us now, now that you’ve heard it, now that you’ve been in his presence, through his spirit, through his word, what is God’s revelation exposing about you and your faith?" [01:02:39] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "God’s revelation to us is in his inspired word. And, God, he gives us the Holy Spirit so that we can properly expound it and discern it. Who inspired the Bible? The Holy Spirit, right? Who indwells us? The Holy Spirit. Who better to give us discernment as we go to him? He’s the one who inspired it. God’s word is sufficient. It’s everything we need to proclaim. It’s everything we need to live a life righteously. And so we find ourselves in his presence by going to it constantly." [45:49] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "When we find ourselves in the presence of God as believers, people who have been set apart by the Spirit of God, we begin to care more for God and for the people that he places around us. How we respond after being in God’s presence, it exposes our faith, it exposes who we are and who we are like. That’s what I want you to get as we walk through this text. You can easily find out who a person is by the way they respond to these things we’ve been talking about and what we’re going to talk about today." [34:00] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "God’s disclosing this to Abraham because he’s Abraham supposed to tell everyone else about it. He’s supposed to tell him the righteous standards of God. He’s supposed to tell them that God does indeed punish wickedness. God gives Abraham divine revelations so that he’ll proclaim it to a lost world. Understand that’s one of the reasons. Look at the second reason verse 19 for I have chosen him that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice so that the Lord may bring to Abraham what he has promised." [42:25] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "When we receive it, when we find ourselves in his presence, what does that revelation expose about you? For believers this morning, as you hear the bad, the worst, the good, the best news of God’s revelation to us, hopefully it causes you to respond in a way that speaks. To see God glorified. Hopefully, hopefully you’re petitioning him to move in such a way that shows your great love for him. But hopefully you’re, you’re petitioning him to move on behalf of those around you, those that are redeemed, those that are lost because of the heart that you have for people made in the name of God." [59:39] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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