MNF - Abraham's Journey of Faith

Abraham: Journey of Faith to the City of God

April 18, 2005

*timeline from Shem to Abraham

*map of Abraham’s journey

1. Timeline
2. Tower of Babel (use maps)
3. Hebrews 11:8-10; 13-16
1. blind obedience shows faith
2. patience shows faith (waiting as strangers in Canaan)
3. the ultimate destination never reached; indicates that the ultimate journey was not to the land of Israel but to the heavenly city—paradise, Zion, promised land—and the author of Hebrews points out that Abraham was looking for the heavenly city
4. Genesis 12:1-4—the journey begins at age 75
1. the covenant of blessing
2. we are the covenant people who are the children of Abraham by faith—not by birth (Gal. 3:7, 9, 26-29)—the promises of blessing and inheritance (ultimate inheritance) are ours NOT those of Jewish descent
3. story of Brainerd Pres.’ pastor and the purchase of land
5. Like Abraham, his descendants (all believers) are called on a journey of faith to seek a city whose builder and maker is God. looking forward to our final destination will dramatically impact how we live our lives.
1. we’ll not be satisfied in the passing things of this world
2. sickness and pain and frustration will serve as reminders that this world is not our home
3. we will strive to please God