The Caldwell Commentaries Podcast

Genesis Lesson 81: Life of Joseph - Part III

Genesis 41:14-43:10

Joseph finally arrived at the time we label his "years of forgetting (forgiving) and fruitfulness"!  The butler's brain at long last remembered the godly young man in the prison who so accurately interpreted his (and the baker's) dream, and he recommended him to Pharaoh who likewise needed a dream interpreter!  In one day, Joseph was lifted from the prison to the palace, where he sat as "prime minister," second only to the king!  

In this lesson, we learn 22 more ways in which Joseph pictured Christ!  You do not want to miss this great way God proves Scripture is His Word, which is through prophetic types!  Studying typology truly brings the Bible to life, my friends.  It is not taught enough these days!

Genesis Lesson 80: Life of Joseph - Part II

Genesis 37:36-41:13

In this second part of our look at the life of the patriarch Joseph, we find another 13 ways his life prophetically portrayed the life of the Saviour, Jesus Christ.  With this lesson, Joseph's years of toil and affliction come to an end as he is finally lifted from the pit of prison to the palace of Pharoah!

Genesis Lesson 79: Life of Joseph - Part I

Genesis 33:-37:45

The next four lessons, which are on the life of Joseph, come from the Caldwell Commentary study entitled "CHRIST in GENESIS".

Joseph, the last of seven prominent men in the Book of Genesis, has more space devoted to him than any of the others (Adam, Abel, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob).  This is likely because almost everything in Joseph's life prophetically typified the Lord Jesus Christ in His two advents.  In this four-part study, we will discuss 82 ways in which the life of Joseph pictured-in-type the life of the Lord!

Genesis Lesson 78: Back to Bethel {Also the Death of Rachel}

Genesis 35:1-29

Jacob's family had sunk to the level of the immoral and sordid society around them; rather than lifting the Canaanites from the idolatry in which they were deeply entrenched, Jacob had permitted those false "gods" to penetrate his own camp.  Rather than being a blessing to the lost people of the land who desperately needed to see Jacob and his family as holy and pure so they would be drawn to their God, the Israelites had become a curse to those around them.  According to Jacob's own words, the "stuck up" the place (34:30) and were hated with a passion because of "The Shechem Massacre" committed by his sons.

The good news is that God had not forgotten His covenant promises; so, no matter how many times His children failed Him, He encouraged them to pick-up where they strayed and to get "back on track".  Jacob knew Bethel was God's appointed place for him, but he had delayed and detoured.  It was time for him to go "Back to Bethel"!

Genesis Lesson 77: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Genesis 33 and 34

These two chapters of "the book of beginnings" do not star Clint Eastwood; rather, the main characters of the first "act" of this narrative are Jacob and Esau, whose reconciliation after 20 years turned out to be relatively "good".  The main characters of the second "act" are Jacob's daughter Dinah and two of his sons, Simeon and Levi.  Dinah was raped by the Hivite prince of Shechem, and that was "bad," but the situation turned very "ugly" when two of Dinah's brothers took revenge upon not just the prince, but the entire population of the city of Shechem.  Jacob is definitely not seen as a good father in this entire episode.  It is a very ugly blemish on the patriarchal line of the Saviour - which again demonstrates why ALL men (women) NEED the Saviour!

Genesis Lesson 76.5: Jacob Becomes Israel

Genesis chapters 32 and 33

This lesson is from our study on "CHRIST in GENESIS".  It is the about the wrestling match between the pre-incarnate Christ and Jacob and contains some extra information from that presented in Lesson 76.

Genesis Lesson 76: A Most Significant Wrestling Match!

Genesis 32:22-32

One thing to realize as you listen to this lesson on the famous wrestling match of Jesus and Jacob is that it was the pre-incarnate Lord Who wrestled all night with Jacob to get something from him - and what He wanted was Jacob's absolute surrender!  At the end of the "match, there was something Jacob wanted, but he did not wrestle the Lord all night to get it.  It wasn't until the morning light of a new day and until his hip was dislocated and Jacob could do nothing but cling to the Lord, that he begged for a blessing and would not stop clinging until he got it!

This is not a sad picture of a loser - a pitiful failure - a weakling!  This is the picture of a spiritually strong man, for Jacob finally had been broken of his self-will.  He was finally dependent on God!  His clinging is a picture of a man of faith surrendered to God's will.

This is an important lesson for all of us, for we all wrestle with ourselves - our carnal nature with our spiritual nature!  

Genesis Lesson 75: Oh Brother! {The Long Overdo Reunion of Esau and Jacob}

Genesis 32:1-21

"A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city" (Proverbs 18:19)!  Genesis chapters 32 and 33 center of the meeting of Jacob and Esau (twins) after having been separated for 20 years - because Jacob deceived and lied to get the patriarchal firstborn blessing and Esau wanted to murder him. 

In this lesson, "Oh, Brother!" we primarily discuss the preparation for that meeting.  To do this, we look at five outline sections:  1. The Angelic Protection, which was a host of angels seen only by Jacob (32:11).  2.  The Advance Preliminaries (some good lessons in this on how to seek reconciliation with a "brother").  3.  The Apprehensive Preparation (Jacob divided his caravan into two division, so that at least one might slip away in escape if Esau came with swords).  4. The Appropriate Prayer, which sone of the greatest recorded prayers of Scripture.  Jacob's prayer (32:9-12) shows much growth in grace as he confessed his unworthiness!  5. The Ample Provisions (Jacob sent a very generous present for Esau).

Genesis Lesson 74: The Mizpah Peace Pact {Laban‘s School of Hardknocks}

Genesis 31:36-55

Jacob's 20-year experience in "The Laban School of Hardknocks" had come to an end.  Jacob learned many much needed lessons about reaping and sowing, about the Lord God, and about humility.  He had not learned everything, but God was ready for him to "graduate" and move on.  In this lesson, he makes his permanent break from Laban, who had angrily chased him until he overtook him in the hills of Gilead.  If not for God's intervention (in a dream to Laban), Jacob may have perished or have had everything taken from him.

In this lesson, we look at Jacob's speech of righteous indignation, addressed to his father-in-law.  He was righteously angry for having been fervently chased, falsely charged, and financially cheated.  He concluded his indictment of Laban with a testimony for God.  He acknowledged that if not for God's presence and protection, Laban would have sent him away empty.  Jacob exposed Laban's evil before all those gathered from both camps, but Laban never repented or asked forgiveness.

We also discuss the Peace Pact made between Laban and Jacob.  To serve as a reminder of this pact, Jacob established a pillar and a pile of stones, which he called "Galeed," which means "a heap of witness".  It was a witness between Laban and Jacob - or a sentry or "watchtower" of "Mizpah" to guard the boundary between the two men and ensure the terms of their peace were kept.  At the Mizpah Monument, Laban made a number of demands on Jacob, all of which were attacks of his character.

People who refer to Genesis 31:49 as "The Mizpah Blessing" really need to understand the verse IN ITS CONTEXT!!  It is NOT a blessing at all.  Also, it was spoken by a wicked-hearted man to purposely imply that his son-in-law was not to be trusted.  It was not spoke to bring them together, but to keep them apart.  It was only spoken by Laban to protect himself, not Jacob or his family.  Mizpah, to Laban, was a monument of suspicion and fear, not love and trust!

Genesis Lesson 73: Stealing Away!

Genesis 31:17-35

God had spoken to Jacob in a dream, telling him that, after 20 years of patiently submitting to his devious, selfish, and conniving father-in-law, Laban, it was time to return to the land of his father (Isaac).  Thus, with his focus back on the Lord and the land the Lord promised him and his descendants, Jacob began his return trip to Canaan.  In this lesson, "Stealing Away," we discuss "Jacob's Flight," "Laban's Pursuit," "God's Intervention," "Laban's Accusation," Jacob's Defense," and "Rachel's Deception".

This is an interesting lesson!

Genesis Lesson 72: Parting Prompting

Genesis 31:1-16

In this lesson, "Parting Prompting," we look at the two primary circumstances that prompted Jacob's decision to finally, after 20 years, separate himself from Laban and head back to his true home.  We also discuss his persuasive conversation with his two wives regarding his need to depart and their consent to depart with him and leave their father (Laban).  Fortunately, Rachel and Leah were united in their response; both women had harbored resentment toward their father for the way he essentially "sold" them to Jacob, had excluded them as virtual "strangers" from receiving any inheritance, and he had even "devoured" their dowry money on himself.  He demonstrated little care for them; too busy building up his own self-worth.  A very selfish father!

Genesis Lesson 71: Laban Out Spotted

Jacob out-smarts his devious, deceptive father-in-law, Uncle Laban!

Genesis Lesson 70: Mandrakes for the Man ("A Very Interesting Sister Swap")

A very interesting lesson and an interesting "swap" between sisters: mandrakes for the man!  Do you even know what a mandrake is and what is was believed to do?  

Genesis Lesson 69: Bigamy Burdens

This lesson demonstrates why God ordained marriage to be one man with one woman!  

Genesis Lesson 68: The Wrong Woman! {Oh NO!}

Oh me!  Can you imagine waking up in the morning after your wedding night and finding you married the wrong bride - especially after working labor free for 7 years to "earn" her?  Quite a story, but it is exactly what happened to "the deceiver" Jacob, who got a taste of his own medicine!  In his Uncle Laban, Jacob found his match!  What did he do when he found Leah, not Rachel, in his bed?  Did he take out his anger on her?  Who do you think the Lord God had as Jacob's "mate," Rachel or Leah?  Was Jacob right to take a second wife?  

Genesis Lesson 67: The Reaping Begins!

Jacob and Laban; reaping and sowing!  Oh my.

Genesis Lesson 66: New Home in Haran {Jacob Meets His ”Match”: Laban and Rebekah!}

Jacob will meet his match in Haran with his mother's brother, Laban.  He will also meet "the love of his life"!

 

Genesis Lesson 65: Pillow to Pillar {Vision Expansion and Vow Expressed}

Genesis 28:16-22

Jacob's life was a picture of the spiritual man struggling against his flesh (see Galatians 5:17).  His primary struggle was not about his love of the world, but it was about his own self-sufficiency - which, of course, boils down to a pride issue.  Time after time, Jacob took matters into his own hands without relying on God, in Whom he did believe.  

When we left Jacob in Lesson 64, he was still sleeping (on a rock pillow).  He fell asleep fearful, lonely, disgraced, exiled, and destitute, but the Lord gave him great tidings of promises and assurances by way of a marvelous dream (commonly called the dream of Jacob's Ladder).  In this lesson, we discuss the events that took place when Jacob awoke (it was a twofold awakening).  First, we discuss "Jacob's Vision of God Expanded" as he has a new awe for God and creates a new memorial for God (A PILLAR MADE FROM HIS PILLOW) and a new name for the place of his dream ("Bethel," "the House of God").  Second, we will talk about "Jacob's Vow to God Expressed" (and the two views about that vow).

Genesis Lesson 64: The Ladder Lord {Jacob’s ”Defining Moment” Dream}

Genesis 28:10-15

This is one of the major turning point in Jacob's life!  At a place Jacob named "Bethel," where he stopped to spend one of his many nights while en route to his mother's former home in Haran of Padan-aram, Jacob had his first personal encounter with the Lord.  This is the famous dream about the ladder from earth to Heaven, which Jesus later (to Nathanael) equated with Himself!  We will look at "The Darkness and the Pillow" (verse 11) and "The Dream and the Pronouncement" (verses 12 to 15).

A very exciting, informative lesson.  You will learn a lot.

Genesis Lesson 63: Jacob Leaves Home {He is Enrolled in "The School of Hard Knocks”!}

Genesis 28:1-9 

With this lesson, we embark upon a study of the life of Jacob, the third patriarch of Genesis.  The next 20 years of his life would be spent in God's "School of Faith" (in Jacob's case, it was more like "The School of Hard Knocks").  He had to leave home to save himself from Esau's rage and desire to kill him.  Jacob would never again see his beloved mother, though he did not know it at the time.  Twenty years of separation from his family would be a time of heavy and hard reaping of all he had sown, but he would return a far better man.

Genesis Lesson 62: A Divided Family - Part II {Deception leads to Dysfunction}

This is the continuation of a two-part series on the division that developed (really over years) in Isaac's family after he tried to give the covenant blessing (to carry on the Messianic line) to Esau.  Not only had Esau disqualified himself from receiving it, but the Lord had told Rebekah when the twins were in her womb that the blessing would go to the younger son (Genesis 25:23).  Isaac deliberately tried to circumvent God's will, and Rebekah and Jacob then deceived him so that actually God's will was accomplished, but not in the way He would have accomplished it!  It is never right to attempt to secure God's will in a sinful way, and deceiving your own father is definitely sinful.

Join us as we discuss the creation of a very dysfunctional family!  We will talk about "A Deceptive Conversation," "A Deceptive Coverning," "A Deceptive Cooking," "A Deceptive Kiss" - in the lesson to follow (63), we will study "A Divine Consecration".

 

Genesis Lesson 61: A Divided Family - Part I {The Domino Effect of Sin}

In this two-part study on Genesis chapter 27, we peer into the contents of a believer's home and are warned of what can happen to even the godliest of homes when one or more family members try to take matters into their own hands and do things their way rather than rely on God and do things His way! 

We will learn about the domino effect of sin!  Isaac's sin led to Rebekah's sin; Rebekah's sin led to Jacob's sin, and Jacob's sin led to Esau's sin.  It was a mess!  Yet, the terrible situation that resulted in "A Divided Family" did not develop in just one day.  It had been festering for a long time.  Parental favoritism and a lack of fatherly guidance and disciple regarding sibling rivalries had been brewing for many years.  Because these issues were not addressed by the spiritual head of the family (Isaac), and were even further aggravated by his obvious favoritism of Esau, a tragic splitting of the family occurred.  A GREAT LESSON TO STUDY TO LEARN FROM THE SAD LESSONS OF OTHERS!  

Genesis Lesson 60: The Testing of Isaac - Part II

Genesis 26:19-35

In the one chapter in Genesis that focuses of Isaac as the main character, we find him going through a series of testings, all intended by the Lord to refine him spiritually.  In Lesson 59, we looked at the first half of this two-part study on "The Testings of Isaac" (his famine, falsehood, and fruitfulness tests). 

With this study, we will look at four more tests presented to Isaac, son of Abraham.  They are "The Fighting Test" (verses 19-22), "The Fear Test" (verses 23-25), "The Forgiveness Test" (verses 26-32), and "The Fatherhood Test".  We learn a lot about Isaac in this two-part study!

Genesis Lesson 59: The Testing of Isaac - Part I {One Chapter in Bible Dedicated Exclusively to Isaac}

Genesis 26:1-18 

The life of Isaac is always connected, in one aspect or another, to the life of someone else, such as his dynamic father Abraham, his elder brother Ishmael, his strong-willed wife Rebekah, or his high profile son Jacob.  There is only one chapter in Genesis in which Isaac is the central figure, and that is chapter 26.  After coming down from Mount Moriah, where his life reached its spiritual climax, Isaac (like all of us) continued to face more trials and testings, all intended to refine him.  

In this lesson and the one to follow (#60), we will look at "The Testing of Isaac".  His first recorded test after his father's death was "the famine test".  Like his father before him, he was headed down to Egypt to escape, but the Lord stopped him and spoke directly to Isaac for the very first time!  His next test, also like his father, was "the falsehood test".  Unfortunately, Isaac repeated his father's sin, lying that Rebekah was his sister!  The next was his "fruitfulness test," and we are happy to report he did pass that one!

Genesis Lesson 58: Beans for the Birthright {The Importance of Choosing Right!}

Genesis 25:29-34 

This is about a swap between twin brothers; one in which  Esau, the elder twin, foolishly chose to trade the temporary and perishing (a bowl of "beans") for the eternal and lasting (the Messianic birthright).  Jacob's method of obtaining his brother's firstborn birthright may not have been good (he struggled his whole life with doing things "his way" instead of waiting on God), but what he desired was good (like Mary, Martha's sister, he chose that good part).  Jacob desired that which is eternal; his focus was on spiritual things.  Jacob wanted to be the spiritual head of the next generation of God's covenant line.  He wanted to carry on the line of the promised family that would ultimately lead to the Savoiur. A super-great lesson filled with practical application!

Genesis Lesson 57: Twin Troubles that Continue Today! {Esau and Jacob}

Genesis 25:19-28 

In this lesson, we find that as God took care of gaining a wife for Isaac, so  He took care of giving him offspring (even though Rebekah was barren).  The Lord would be faithful to His Messianic-lineage promise, even though Isaac and Rebekah were married 20 years before He finally opened her womb.  THEN the real troubles began!  "Twin Troubles" started in the womb and continue to this day through the descendant of Esau and Jacob!  Oh me.

Genesis Lesson 56: The Pilgrimage Ended {The Importance of Finishing Well}

Genesis 25:1-18

With Genesis chapter 25, we come to the last chapter of the life of the great patriarch of the faith, Abraham.  For more than a century, he had been on a pilgrimage of faith with the Lord God in the Promised Land of Canaan.  It was wonderful to learn how Abram (his original name) stepped out of Ur of the Chaldees to being his spiritual journey with God, but it is even more impressive to find that, more than a century later, he was still going strong for and with the Lord!  It is one thing to begin well with God, but it is even a better thing to finish well.  

In this lesson, "The Pilgrimage Ended," we discuss the deaths of both Abraham (25:1-11) and Ishmael (25:12-18).

Genesis Lesson 55: Coming of Isaac’s Bride {An Historic-Prophetic Love Story}

"I will go" were the three most significant words Rebekah ever spoke!  They formed the prompt and definitive answer to the question posed by Abraham's servant regarding her willingness to become the bride of his master's son (Isaac).  Rebekah had come to a quick and firm conviction that the call of God on her life was to be Isaac's wife.  She never met Isaac, but she committed herself to him based on the words about him from his father's servant (Eliezer).

The beautiful love story of Isaac and Rebekah goes much deeper than the surface level of the account.  It presents us with a marvelous picture - in many ways - of the great marriage arranged in Heaven by God the Father, Who sent His faithful Servant, the Holy Spirit, to call out a Bride (the Church) for His only begotten, beloved Son, the Lord Jesus.

Genesis Lesson 54: Call of Isaac’s Bride {Exciting Prophetic Picture of Christ and His Church!}

Incredible analogy-prophetic type of Christ and His Bride, the Church is presented in the account of how Abraham sent his faithful servant Eliezer to secure a bride (Rebekkah) for his son, Isaac.  You must hear!

Genesis Lesson 53: Quest for Isaac’s Bride {Packed with Fascinating Christology!}

Genesis 24:1-33 

Chapter 24 of Genesis is the longest chapter in the Bible.  It not only contains a delightful LOVE STORY, but presents a critical event in the history of man's redemption.  The picture (type) of Christ presented in and through Isaac did not end with Mount Moriah.  There are fascinating parallels between "The Quest for Isaac's Bride" (this lesson) and the calling out by the Spirit (represented by Abraham's faithful servant Eliezer) of Christ's Bride, the Church!

This is a great study - you do NOT want to miss the details!  Even though you may think you already know the account, you are going to learn something NEW!

Genesis Lesson 52: The Funeral Test {Maintaining a Godly Testimony in Time of Sorrow}

Genesis 23:1-20

In Genesis chapter 23, we learn how a believer can maintain a godly testimony even in the midst of dealing with the death of a loved one.  By Abraham's example as he coped with the death of his life-partner, we learn there is a time to express sorrow and deal with grief, but there is also a time to show responsibility and not be so overcome with grief that the believer presents a poor testimony of his/her faith.  

One of the most critical times in a believer's life to demonstrate the difference his/her faith in Jesus Christ makes is at the time of death!

In this lesson, we discuss a "Tribute to Sarah," the "Tears of Abraham," the great "Testimony of Abraham," and a business "Transaction with Ephron" (as Abraham secured a final resting place for his beloved wife).

Genesis Lesson 51: Stars and Sand {Isaac’s After-Moriah Mysterious ”Absence” - Another Amazing Picture of Christ!}

Genesis 22:15-24

This is the conclusion of a "mountain peak" chapter of Scripture (Genesis 22)!  One of the greatest principles of the Bible, taught from cover to cover, is that blessings follow obedience.  This truth was certainly made evident following Abraham's obedience in offering up Isaac - even though he did not need to carry through with that assignment (it was a God-given "test").  Among the blessings, Abraham received further confirmation from God about the covenant promises given him earlier.  

Learn why Isaac is not mentioned in Genesis 22:19, when he came down from Moriah with his father, and why he is not mentioned again until he appears to meet his bride (Rebekah) in chapter 24!  It is another amazing prophetic type of Christ, but one most people miss!  Be sure you don't!

Genesis Lesson 50: Where is the Lamb? {Learn of Abraham’s Incredible Gospel Prophecy on Moriah!}

Genesis 22:7-14

This is the continuation of Lesson 49 ("Clear Vision"); we left off  with Abraham and his son Isaac alone on Mount Moriah (leaving the two servants at the base of the Mount).  To this point, Isaac's faith had not been tested, for he did not know what the Lord requested of his father.  How would he respond when he learned he was to be "the lamb for the burnt offering" (22:7b)?  

There is an incredible prophecy given by Abraham in this passage of Scripture - Genesis 22:8.  Every Christian needs to know and understand the depth of that prophecy!  It is also important to know and understand why Isaac was never going to actually BE the sin-sacrifice and why he was replaced with a ram.  

Did Abraham understand "the Gospel" of the future from this experience?  Yes.  Jesus tells us he did (John 8:56).  You may also want to also listen to our podcast Lesson 11 under the tag "CHRIST in GENESIS" entitled "The Gospel of Moriah".  

Genesis Lesson 49: Clear Vision {The Gospel on Moriah! - A ”Holy Ground” Study}

Genesis 22:1-6 

This is the great message of "The Gospel on Moriah"!  In this lesson, we are on "holy ground" for it is one of the clearest events foreshadowing the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Calvary in the entire Bible!  Genesis chapter 22 is one of the "mountain peaks" of revelation concerning the redemptive work of the beloved Son of God - and it is through Abraham's obedient willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac!  Also pictured in this marvelous true account is the Lord's resurrection on the third day.  Listen and learn about Abraham's "Great Test," his "Great Love," and his "Great Faith" (see Lesson #50).

Genesis Lesson 48: Abraham and Abimelech {An Interesting Peace Treaty}

Genesis 21:22-34 

In this lesson, Abraham has his second encounter with Abimelech (a Philistine king).  It was much different than their first meeting four years earlier, which had been a humiliating experience for Abraham (he was rightly reproved by the king for lying about his relationship with Sarah).  This second encounter found Abraham in a much improved spiritual condition.  The two make a peace treaty, which is ratified with sacrifices, witnesses, and promises.  The treaty lasted 70 years; interestingly the one who broke it was Isaac, and he did so by repeating the sin of his father - he lied about his relationship with Rebekah!  Amazing.

Genesis Lesson 47: Separation of Hagar and Ishmael {Was this More Difficult for Abraham than when asked to sacrifice Isaac?}

Genesis 21:11-21

One of the most difficult separations Abraham faced in his life (and he faced many) was his separation from Ishmael, his illegitimate son born by Sarah's Egyptian handmade, Hagar.  The separation was necessary for the accomplishment of God's purposes for both Isaac and Ishmael, so Abraham obeyed by casting out both Hagar and Ishmael, even though it broke his heart.

It is wonderful to learn how the Lord God took care of Ishmael (and Hagar) and blessed him!  It is also interesting to learn how the Apostle Paul used the separation of Hagar and Ishmael from Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac as an allegory involving Law and grace (Galatians 4:21-31)!  A lot to discover in this deep lesson!

Genesis Lesson 46: Isaac and Ishmael {Finally, Some Laughter!} {Isaac, a Type of Christ}

Genesis 21:1-10 

After reading about the destruction of Sodom in chapter 18, the sad end of Lot in chapter 19, and Abraham's shameful return to the sin of lying about Sarah in chapter 20, it is great to break out in laughter in the beginning of chapter 21.  This lesson begins with the birth of Isaac, whose name means "laughter".  This promised son was a long time coming, but when he was finally born, he brought immense joy into the life of his family . . . well, with one exception, and his name was Ishmael.  

In this lesson, "Isaac and Ishmael," we look at the birth delight (21:1-7), the brotherly discord (21:8-10), and some amazing typology (Isaac as a type of Christ) in a section entitled Bible Depths.

Genesis Lesson 45: Oh No, Not Again! {Abraham’s Repeat Sin / Plus First Healing Miracle in Bible}

Genesis 20:1-18

This lesson is the account of the third major failure of Abraham.  Sadly, it was a repeat of his first failure, when he purposely hid the truth that Sarah was his wife and not just his sister.  If even a great man like Abraham (the "father of faith" and "friend of God") sins, we certainly know none of us are exempt!  One of the reasons (among multitudes) we know the Bible is truly God-inspired is because it always speaks the truth about people, even "the best" of God's people.  We read about Noah's drunkenness, Moses' temper, David's adultery, and Peter's denials.  

We look at Abraham's iniquity, God's intervention, and King Abimelech's integrity and inquisition of Abraham and Sarah.  In this account, we find the first healing miracle recorded in the Bible!  Find out what it was and on whom it was performed!

Genesis Lesson 44: Friend of the World - Lot Part II {We are ”in the days of Lot” Jesus Predicted - Luke 17:28}

Genesis 19:15-38

This is the second of a two-part lesson on Lot, "Friend of the World".  In lesson 43, we learned that Lot was a compromised believer, an ineffective leader, and a powerless witness for the Lord.  He was also a double-minded man.  He lingered too long in Sodom and longed for Zoar (another worldly city).  He also failed as a husband and was a pitiful father.

We need to learn from Lot's serious mistakes, for the Lord warned that the days preceding His Second Coming will be "as it was in the days of Lot" (Luke 17:28).  If you know anything about the immorality of Sodom, you know we are "there" today!

Genesis Lesson 43: Friend of the World - Lot {The Tragedy of the Compromised Christian Life}

Genesis 19

This is the first of a two-part study on Genesis chapter 19, which is about God's judgment on the exceedingly wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, and the tragic consequences of Lot's spiritual decline.  Lot, though a believer in God, evidently worked harder at being "The Friend of the World" than being "The friend of God, as his Uncle Abraham is called (see Lesson 42).

A study of Lot is important because many Christians attempt to live on a "Lot level" of spirituality.  They do not deny their belief in Christ, but neither are they "sold out" for Him, which they consider "too radical".  The tragedy is that the lukewarm, double-minded, compromised Christian does not experience the joy of his salvation.  Lot's life demonstrates this more than perhaps anyone in Scripture, for his life ended in one of the lowest conditions imaginable for a believer.  His life was almost completely wasted.  He was saved, "yet so as by fire" (I Corin. 3:15).  He was a compromised believer, an ineffective leader, and a powerless witness (in this first half of Genesis 18).

Genesis Lesson 42: The Friend of God {Abraham’s Distinct O.T. Title}

Genesis 18:1-33 

Abraham is referred to in Scripture by a number of names and titles ("father of many nations," "father of the faithful," "a prophet," "a mighty prince," a man "strong in faith"), but the most cherished title is "the friend of God".  Because he is the only individual in the Old Testament to have this compliment specifically said of him, we want to know why he "earned" this distinction.  The almost unanimous answer is derived from the intimate conversation between the Lord and Abraham in Genesis chapter 18, as well as the confidence in Abraham the Lord demonstrated in this same chapter.

 

Genesis Lesson 41: El Shaddai {All-Sufficient God}

Genesis 17:1-27 

This is the chapter in which Abram becomes Abraham and Sarai becomes Sarah - name-changes made by God!  This is also the chapter in which 90-year old Abraham laughs (in joy) when the Lord tells him that Sarah his wife will bear him the promised son (not some younger woman, like Hagar), and his name shall be Isaac (which means "laughter")!

One of the great names for God is "El Shaddai," meaning "the all-sufficient God"!  He was "all-sufficient" for Abraham, and He is "all-sufficient" for us today!  Amen!  Learn the context for the first time in Scripture God is referred to by this marvelous name!

Genesis Lesson 40: The Fruit of Impatience {The Conception of Ishmael}

Genesis 16:1-16

This is the sad account of the conception of Ishmael, and how Abraham wrongly heeded the suggestion of his wife to conceive an heir through her Egyptian handmade Hagar.  

In our discussion of this event, we look at: (1) The Scheme Proposed, (2) The Scheme's Problems (Hagar's pride, Sarah's anger, and Abraham's lack of leadership), and (3) the Servant Pursued (Hagar's wilderness encounter with the pre-incarnate Christ).

This is an important lesson about waiting on God and not taking matters into our own hands, "in the flesh".  This serious mistake committed by Abraham has consequences that still disrupt the peace of our world today in the on-going animosity between the sons of Ishmael and the sons of Isaac.

Genesis Lesson 39: Abraham’s Exceeding Great Reward {The first of God’s ”I AM” statements}

Genesis 15:1-21 

Following his physical battle against Chedorlaomer (king of the four-king coalition) and his spiritual battle against the temptations of Bera (King of Sodom), Abraham was concerned the wicked invaders he humiliated by defeating them with his much smaller band of men might return in vengeance.  He was getting old and still had no child or land, as per God's promises (12:2-7).  Lot returned to live in Sodom (a great disappointment), and Abraham was drained, physically and emotionally.  He needed some divine assurance, and the Lord delivered!  He graciously answered every one of Abraham's concerns.

In this powerful lesson, we discuss (1) A Mighty Shield (the first of God's great "I AM" statements), (2) A Multitudinous Seed, (3) A Monumental Statement (the doctrine of justification by faith is set forth for the first time), and (4) A Mysterious Ceremony (to seal the Abrahamic Covenant).  

Genesis Lesson 38: Abraham and Two Kings {Meet Mysterious Melchizedek! Was He the Pre-incarnate Christ?}

Genesis 14:17-24 

It is often the case for a believer to encounter a great temptation and/or danger after winning "a battle".  Abraham experienced a miraculous victory over a powerful four-king coalition from the East (which had just defeated a five-king confederation near the Dead Sea).  He outrageously rescued Lot from captivity, but as he was returning home from the physical battle, he was unexpectedly faced with a spiritual battle.  He was tempted with great wealth and acclaim by the King of Sodom.

But, in God's providence, Abraham first encountered "the King of Salem" (meaning "Peace"), who is also called "Melchizedek," which means "King of righteousness"!  This mysterious man (the pre-incarnate Christ?) brought bread and wine (first mention of these elements in Scripture) for Abraham and his men.  Melchizedek was "the Priest of the Most High God" - the very first Priest mentioned in Scripture!  

We discuss 5 interesting truths concerning Melchizedek:  His Provision,  His Priesthood, His Proclamation, Abraham's Payment (to Him), and His Person (identity).  This is intriguing, to say the least!

The lesson concludes with a detailed discussion of Abraham's meeting with the King of Sodom (named Bera) and how Abraham (like Christ) resisted temptation!

Genesis Lesson 37: The Dead Sea War {Aka ”Ten-King War” - First War in History!}

Genesis 14:1-16

We discuss the very first recorded account of war, not only in the Bible, but in all ancient literature!  It is called "The Dead Sea War" or "The 10-King War" (it was a rebellion of five kings against four kings, and the tenth "king" was Abram.  Also, after the war, a mysterious eleventh King appeared from seemingly nowhere.  His name is Melchizedek).

Through this encounter, Abraham faced three more "tests": (1) "The Compassion Test" - in which he risked his life to rescue his nephew, (2) a "repeat" on "The Courage Test," which he failed in Egypt, but passed with flying colors in his rescue of Lot, and (3) "The Completion Test," which he also passed with flying colors.

For more on the fascinating truths and prophetic aspect of this first recorded war of history, see Lesson 9 "The 10-King War and Melchizedek" under "CHRIST in GENESIS" on this podcast.

Genesis Lesson 36: Abram and Lot Separate {Being a Peacemaker}

Genesis 13:5-18

This lesson provides us with a sharp contrast between Uncle Abram and nephew Lot.  Both men had journeyed down to Egypt (out of God's will), but one returned wiser, while the other returned worldlier.  Abram learned his lesson, through Divine chastisement and by way of great humiliation, to walk by faith in God's Word.  He learned not to use circumstances or even self-preservation as his guides (although he would later slip in this area by repeating his sin about Sarah).  Evidently, Lot did not learn any significant spiritual lessons while in Egypt.  When Abram departed Egypt, there was no place for Egypt in his heart.  On the other hand, when Lot left Egypt, he took "Egypt" with him in his heart.  

 

Genesis Lesson 35: Abram; Canaan to Egypt {His Lie about His Wife}

Genesis 12:10-13:4

We continue Abram's journey of faith with God as he traveled from the land of promise (Canaan) to Egypt (picture of the world).  In the situation we discuss in this lesson, we (hopefully) learn from Abram's mistakes and his lie!  The four main divisions of our look at what some would call a "backsliding experience" are: (1) the famine, (2) the falsehood, (3) the failure, and (4) the return to fellowship!

It never pays to step out of God's will by devising our own schemes on how to handle difficult situations.  It never pays to doubt God in times of trials, and self-preservation is never an excuse for disobedience!  Time spent "in Egypt" is wasted time!  These are just some of the important spiritual lessons learned from Abram in this lesson.

Genesis Lesson 34: Abram; Haran to Canaan {The Beginning of Abraham’s Spiritual Journey}

Genesis 12:1-9

We begin the spiritual journey of the man called Abram (Abraham).  His walk began where our walk with God begins, which is with God taking the initiative!  God spoke, and it was the revelation from Him that pierced Abram's soul and began to break the hold the world, the flesh, and the devil had over him!  It was the Word of the God of glory that generated a response from Abram and began leading him down the path to eternal salvation.  It is fitting that God began His summons to Abram with a call to separation!  He was not only to leave his country (idolatrous Ur of the Chaldees), but also his idol-worshipping family!

Genesis Lesson 33: Introduction to Abram {Preserving the Promised Seed}

Genesis 11:10-32

Generation after generation following the dispersion at Babel was given opportunity to repent and turn back to God, but unfortunately the degenerate condition of man soon came to resemble pre-Flood days.  Tragically, the spiritual decline even affected the Messianic line.  But God had made a promise, and He keeps His promises.  He would send the Promised Seed of the woman, the Messiah/Saviour into the world to crush Satan and pay the wages of sin so those who believe on Him could be forgiven and saved. 

Thus, because God is the God of love, mercy, and grace; the God Who keeps His promises, He reached down to call a man out of a Shemite family; a man whose family worshipped idols; a Gentile living in Ur of the Chaldees (area of modern-day Iran).  His name was Abram.

In this lesson, we begin studying the life of a Abram - whose name was later changed to Abraham by God (17:5).  It was from Abraham's seed that the Messiah would come.  God would indeed preserve the lineage of the Messiah, Jesus Christ!