This is part of a video series covering the entire Bible in 4 years, one chapter at a time. Start at the beginning with Genesis 1 (Youtube link: https://youtu.be/wC2qD4RGOdo) and work through the playlist. Or go to https://www.peace.org.au/bible.html for more information.
In this video listen to Genesis 22 read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.
Genesis 22 tells the incredible story of the testing of Abraham. Up until now, the whole narrative has been about how Abraham had to exhibit faith so as to obtain a son. Now that he has a son, he is asked to give him up by sacrificing him.
While this is also a test of faith, it is really a test of values. Does Abraham value his son more than God? Does Abraham really love God, or only love what God can do for him? Many of us love God because of the blessings we receive from Him, such as Heaven, or His promises here and now. Later in scripture Job loses everything and rerfuses to give up on God, and thus goes through the same type of test, but without knowing it. Job is found to value God above what God can do for hm, and in the process all is restored in greater measure. Many of us are also called to go through tests of what we value, and whether God has a higher place than these things.
This passage also raises questions about child sacrifice, and God’s requests of us. Does God ask us to do things which are wrong? Listen and find out.
Jan 23, 2021 | Message by David Alley