"Then (Abram) believed in the Lord; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness."
-Genesis 15:6
At this point in his life, Abram was probably very fearful. He had just defeated four very powerful nations, and they were probably seeking revenge. Also, he was getting old, and wondered if God would really give him a son that He promised. Abram probably did not feel secure, and questioned God's sovereignty. God knew these fears Abram had, and told Abram, "do not fear, I am a shield to you, Your reward shall be very great". Abram immediately doubts God, and tells God that he has no son even though God has promised him one for a very long time now.
God then takes Abram outside and tells him to count the stars, if he can. God then says that Abram's descendants shall be as numerous as the stars. I want to stop in the story and talk about this part for a bit. Remember that Abram had many fears and doubts, and these things were consuming his thoughts. God realized this, and He took Abram outside into the cool night. Often times when we have problems our minds are filled with worry and fear. We have to learn to step outside of our problems and turn to God. Our focus should not be our fears but God's promises.
Continuing the passage, God tells Abram to bring certain animals and cut them in half. Abram falls into a deep sleep, and God promises to give his descendants land and possessions. Abram was even concerned about land, but God promised it to him anyway. After God speaks, a fire blazes in between the pieces of the animals, signifying the closure of a covenant. Animals cut into halves were used as a reminder to people that if they did not keep the covenant, they would surely die.
Notice that in this passage Abram never actually has to do anything for God. God is promising him a son and great lands, and meanwhile Abram is doing nothing. Abram even falls into a deep sleep while God is promising him these things. Also, only God walks through the pieces of the animals. Abram has no commitment to this covenant, only God. This is known as a one way covenant, or an unconditional covenant. Abram had no requirements in this covenant, only God had responsibility.
God has promised us a son as well. This son is not a son of our own, but God's one and only son. Even more, God has already completed this covenant. This too is an unconditional covenant, only God has to do the work. Jesus was sent down and He paid for our sins, giving us a chance for true life. He completed the covenant when He cried out "It is finished! (John 19:30)". Some may say, well how can this be unconditional if we have to believe? Isn't that a condition? Not really. Regardless of whether or not we believe, God has already done His part of the covenant. All we have to do is accept or deny His grace to us. What do you choose?
-Smart
(p.s. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments)
No comments:
Post a Comment