Abraham and Isaac
Genesis 12 and 22
This week our children are learning about Abraham and Isaac. These men represent the beginning of God’s plan to redeem and bless the world through one, chosen family. The power and grace of God are displayed throughout the lives of these men. God makes seemingly impossible promises to Abraham and then Isaac. Then he stakes his reputation on fulfilling those promises. He promises Abraham to make his family into a great nation. While that doesn’t sound like that wild of a promise, it becomes seemingly impossible when it is made to a man and woman who are near 100 years old and have not had any children. Even when Abraham’s wife, Sarah, heard God’s promise she laughed out loud. But, God was faithful to his promise and gave the aging couple Isaac. But the tests of faith did not end with the birth of Isaac. God asked Abraham to sacrifice his promised son. Not only did this seem to run contrary to the promise made by God, it also seemed to run contrary to the character of God. But, God used this test to demonstrate his love for Abraham and work God would accomplish through the faith of people like Abraham. Here are some questions and themes to help you with your discussions this week with your children.
- Why was it so hard to believe that Abraham and Sarah would have a baby? They were both very old. They were like grandparents instead of parents. They would only have a baby if God gave them a baby.
- Did Abraham and Sarah believe God’s promise? Yes and no. Abraham believed God would do what he promised, but it was not easy to believe. Sarah laughed because she thought it sounded totally impossible for her to get pregnant.
- What did God do for Abraham when he went to sacrifice his son? He stopped Abraham and provided a ram to be sacrificed. This was a reminder that God would provide what was needed to accomplish all that he had commanded.
Character Trait: Perseverance
I do things the right way until they are finished.
Memory Verse:
And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age
Matthew 28:20
