Hear the Call

printable version

Genesis 12:1-9

Connecting Question

What’s the longest journey you have been on?

Who is an elder that left an impression on you? How?

Prayer for Illumination

Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that as the Scriptures are read and your Word is proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen.

Context

Our series, HEAR THE CALL will look to Old Testament stories of Abram, Moses, David, Esther, Isaiah, and Jonah, each one had a calling and each one heard in their own ways. We can take heart knowing that they had difficulty with what God asked. We know God is calling each of us. What is your call? When we look at Easter, how do we know what God’s call is for Easter? How far will God call us to go? Let’s Hear the Call together.

From Pastor Terry Fretheim at EntertheBible.org:

The reader should especially take into account the type of literature contained in the book. Genesis is not a science textbook but a theological story about God and God’s relationship with creation and humanity. Recall that this literature centers on God’s promises. Note the ways in which the stories depict Israel’s ancestors as dysfunctional families and, at the same time, how God is able to work in and through them on behalf of the divine purposes.

Look at the Book

Open to Genesis 11. What is happening? What leads us up to chapter 12?
What is the first action verb of Genesis 12:1? Flip back to Genesis 1. How does God create?
What is the second action word in Genesis 12:1? Who does God say this to? What do we know about this man and his family?
God calls Abram to leave behind three things when he “goes.” What are they? Which one would be hardest for you to leave? Why?
In 12:2-3, we see what God promises to do to support Abram. Who is the subject of the sentences? What does God promise?
What do we know about Abram’s age? What would that be like to have God “show up” at this stage of life?
What is Abram’s call?
Do you sense a call in your life now? To what?
What do you think is Easter Church’s call in this time and place? To what?
In Genesis 12:3 is where we get the phrase, “we are blessed to be a blessing.” What might that mean?
What tension is created in Genesis 12:7? How?
Google the song, “Canaan Bound” by artist Andrew Peterson. Listen and reflect on this interpretation of the call of Abram.
What is your takeaway from Abram’s story?
What would you like to talk about that we have not yet?

Taking it Home

Has someone pointed out a calling for you? What was that like?

God of the promise, you call your people together into your one mission in Christ’s name. Make us brave, grant us peace, challenge our expectations, and empower us to truly follow your Spirit’s lead. You are our one God who calls us together as one people, and we thank you in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Grow Guide | Sept 8, 2024