Genesis 11:10-12:9

Sola
(Genesis 11:10-12:9)

In the landscape of the Reformation, winds of change swept across the church in the endeavor to return to biblical righteousness and away from works-based righteousness. Martin Luther, a name that stands tall among the effort, became known as the father of the Reformation. Yet, long before Luther was another: Abraham. In all his faithful obedience, Abraham emerges as the true patriarch of the Reformation ideal, a revelation that resounds powerfully in the pages of Galatians.

In the stirring words of Galatians 3:1-9, the apostle Paul exposes the heart of the matter. He confronts the Galatian believers with a crucial question, challenging their deviation from the path of grace: “Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith” (Gal 3:2)? The answer, as Paul unravels, lies in the profound example of Abraham, and was later the foundation Luther built upon.

Abraham, the man of faith, emerges as the pivotal figure in God’s redemptive plan. It is his unwavering trust in the promises of God that sets him apart and ignites the true spirit of the Reformation. Paul proclaims that “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness” (Gal 3:6). This profound declaration echoes down the corridors of time, declaring the cornerstone upon which the Reformation rests.

Abraham’s faith serves as the prototype for all who would follow. He believed not in his own efforts or the merits of the law, but in the unmerited favor of God. His faith became the catalyst for God’s transformative work, paving the way for the glorious message of salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.

As we explore the call of Abraham in Genesis 11:10-12:9, the truth reverberates: Martin Luther, though instrumental, stands as a torchbearer of a movement birthed centuries earlier by the faith of Abraham. The true father of the Reformation, whose footsteps Luther merely followed, emerges as a towering figure of faith and a beacon of hope for all who seek the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ.

Salvation hinges upon…
Genesis 11:10-26

In the intricate tapestry of genealogies, where names and ages interweave, we witness the unfolding of God’s sovereign plan. Genesis 11:10-26 guides us through the generations, tracing the lineage from Shem to Terah until we arrive at the pivotal figure who will shape the course of salvation history—Abram, later known as Abraham.

Salvation hinges upon this lineage, a testament to God’s faithfulness even in the midst of human frailty and the consequences of sin. Shem, the son of Noah, becomes the starting point, for from his line would emerge a man whose faith would alter the course of human destiny. As we delve into the details, we learn that Shem fathered Arpachshad at the age of 100, just two years after the floodwaters receded. Shem lived for 500 years after this event, witnessing the birth of other sons and daughters who would carry the torch of God’s promise.

Arpachshad, in turn, became the father of Shelah at the age of 35. His life continued for 403 years, encompassing the birth of more children who would be part of the unfolding story. The lineage moves forward, from Shelah to Eber, from Eber to Peleg, and from Peleg to Reu, each generation leaving its mark on the unfolding narrative. The passing of years, the birth of sons and daughters, and the continuation of life become a testament to God’s providential hand guiding the affairs of humanity.

Serug follows, then Nahor, with each man living out his years, begetting more children, and becoming part of the tapestry that leads us closer to the birth of Abram. And then, in the midst of this intricate web of generations, Terah emerges. At the age of 70, he becomes the father of Abram, whose name means “exalted father.” Little do we realize at this point the immense significance that this son will hold in the grand story of God’s redemptive plan.

As we reflect on this lineage, we find ourselves standing at the threshold of a much larger narrative—the story of God’s salvation for humanity. We see the echoes of these names, from Adam to the second Adam, in the biblical history that unfolds in Luke 3:23-38. And in the heartbeat of this divine chronicle, we find the resounding name of Abraham, in whom the promises of God converge and from whom a chosen nation would arise.

…grace alone…
Genesis 11:27-32

At this point in the text we are compelled to ask “What’s so special about Abraham?” Genesis 11:27-32 provides for us a glimpse into the generations of Terah, where Abram, Nahor, and Haran emerge as notable figures. However, it is Abram, later called Abraham, who stands as a pivotal character, carrying the weight of divine purpose and calling. The question is why? What makes him so important?

In the tapestry of human history, a surprising pattern emerges. Despite the failures of humanity—Adam’s disobedience, the devastating flood, and the hubris of the Tower of Babel—God’s grace continues to shine forth. It is against this backdrop of human frailty and disobedience that the selection of Abraham becomes even more remarkable.

In the face of Adam’s transgression, which marred the perfect communion between God and humanity, hope seemed dim. The flood, a consequence of widespread corruption, further highlighted the brokenness of humanity. The Tower of Babel, with its rebellion and disunity, showcased the depths of human pride.

Yet, in the midst of this seemingly bleak panorama, God’s grace and mercy break forth anew. Instead of abandoning humanity to its self-destructive path, He chooses to extend His favor to an individual—Abraham. This unexpected act of grace reveals the redemptive heartbeat of God, His unrelenting love for His creation, and His unwavering commitment to bring salvation to all. Abraham’s selection becomes a turning point in human history. It marks a fresh start—a renewed opportunity for God to demonstrate His faithfulness and extend His grace. Through this chosen individual, God intends to unravel His divine plan of salvation, leading to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Amidst the failures and shortcomings of humanity, God’s selection of Abraham stands as a signature of hope. It showcases that God’s grace is not hindered by human limitations or past transgressions. Rather, it is precisely through flawed individuals that God’s redemptive purposes are often accomplished, revealing the surpassing power of His grace.

Abraham, a man set apart by God’s grace, stands as a model for every believer. His significance lies not in his genealogy, merits, or accomplishments, but solely in the boundless grace bestowed upon him by the Almighty. As we delve into the narrative of Abraham in Genesis 11:27-32, we come to understand that his story carries timeless lessons for all who seek to walk in faith.

Abraham’s distinction is not rooted in his lineage, as shown in the generations of Terah. Instead, it is his unwavering response to God’s call and the demonstration of faith that make him exceptional. Abraham becomes a powerful emblem, reminding us that our standing before God is not based on our human achievements, but on His grace alone.

Within the pages of Scripture, we find the truth beautifully echoed. In Genesis 18:19 and Nehemiah 9:7, we witness Abraham’s chosen status, selected by God for a purpose beyond his own comprehension. It is in this divine choice that we discover the incredible depth of God’s grace, which extends to every believer.

Abraham’s background, as noted in Joshua 24:2, adds to the beauty of his story. He emerged from a pagan upbringing, emphasizing that his selection was not due to his upbringing or inherent worthiness. Rather, it underscores the profound truth that God’s grace reaches into the darkest corners of human existence, transforming lives and offering hope to all.

Deuteronomy 7:1-8 further illuminates the uniqueness of Abraham’s calling. It unveils the lavish grace poured upon him and his descendants, despite their unworthiness. Abraham becomes a living testament to the unmerited favor of God—a grace that surpasses all human understanding.
Romans 9:10-23 continues to highlight Abraham’s special position, emphasizing that his chosen status was not based on works or achievements. It underscores the truth that salvation hinges solely on God’s sovereign grace, a grace freely given to all who respond in faith.

In 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, the remarkable nature of our own journey to faith is brought to the forefront. God intentionally selects the weak, the foolish, and the lowly to showcase His power and wisdom. Abraham’s story exemplifies this truth, revealing that his significance lies completely in being a vessel for God’s grace to work through.

As we examine the life of Abraham, we are confronted with the realization that he is not extraordinary because of his own attributes or accomplishments. Rather, his exceptional nature stems from God’s grace upon him. Abraham becomes a model for every believer, reminding us that it is solely by God’s grace that we are chosen, called, and transformed.

…working through faith alone…
Genesis 12:1-3

Genesis 12:1-3 unveils a pivotal moment in the life of Abram, where the call of God sets in motion a remarkable journey of faith. These verses echo with the resounding truth that salvation hinges upon grace alone, working through faith alone.

In the divine encounter, the Lord commands Abram to leave behind his country, his kindred, and his father’s house, embracing a path of uncertainty and obedience. This call demands a radical step of faith, requiring Abram to trust in the guidance and provision of God. It is a call to surrender the familiar and embark on a journey led by divine promise.

The significance of faith is intertwined with the promises God makes to Abram. God declares that He will make Abram into a great nation, blessing him and making his name renowned. Moreover, God declares that through Abram, all the families of the earth will be blessed. These promises underscore the pivotal role Abram will play in God’s redemptive plan.

As we immerse ourselves in these verses, we witness the divine initiative of grace. God chooses Abram, not based on his merits or achievements, but purely out of His unmerited favor. The unfolding promises reveal the magnitude of God’s grace extended to this chosen individual, impacting not only his life but the lives of countless others.

The repetition of the word “you” throughout these verses further emphasizes the narrowing focus from mankind to Abram. This narrowing underscores the unique calling upon Abram’s life and the pivotal role he would play in God’s unfolding plan. The emphasis on “you” highlights the personal nature of God’s grace and His intimate involvement in the life of Abram.

In Romans 4:1-3, the apostle Paul underscores the significance of Abraham’s faith in God. Paul writes, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness” (Rom 4:3). This powerful declaration points to the fact that Abraham’s righteousness was not based on his belief in the existence of God, but rather his trust in God’s promises and his willingness to take Him at His word. Abraham’s faith was not mere intellectual acknowledgment; it was a deep conviction that God’s promises would come to fruition. It was a faith that believed in the trustworthiness and faithfulness of God. This kind of faith is what set Abraham apart and resulted in his righteousness being credited to him.

In Romans 4:9-25, the apostle Paul presents Abraham as the prime example of the kind of faith that saves. Paul affirms that Abraham’s faith preceded circumcision, the sign of the covenant, emphasizing that it was faith alone that resulted in his righteousness. In other words, Abraham was yet a Gentile when God called him to become the father of Jewish faith. Prior to this divine encounter, he was not part of the chosen people, nor did he possess any inherent merit or special status. Abraham’s calling demonstrates that salvation transcends human categories such as race or lineage. Salvation is a result of God’s unmerited favor, extended to humanity through His gracious initiative. Yet, it is through faith alone that individuals from every tribe, tongue, and nation respond to that grace, entrusting themselves to God’s promises.

Abraham’s journey invites us to ponder our own response to the call of God and the promises He extends. It challenges us to place our faith in the unchanging character of God, recognizing that salvation is not achieved by our own efforts, but received through faith alone in the redemptive work of Christ alone.

…for the glory of God alone
Genesis 12:4-9

Genesis 12:4-9 unveils the continued journey of Abram as he responds in obedience to the call of God. In these verses, we witness the interplay between God’s grace, faith, and the ultimate purpose of salvation: the glory of God alone.

Abram, at the age of seventy-five, sets out from Haran in response to God’s promise, accompanied by his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, and all their possessions. This act of obedience demonstrates Abram’s faith in God’s call and his willingness to trust in the unseen.

As they enter the land of Canaan, God continues to reveal His plans to Abram. The Lord appears to him, assuring him that the land would be given to his descendants. In response, Abram builds altars, acknowledging the presence and faithfulness of God.

The significance of these actions becomes clear when we consider the arithmetic of salvation. Ephesians 2:8-10 reminds us that we are saved by grace alone, a gift freely given by God. However, the grace that saves is never alone. True faith, a response to God’s grace, leads to good works. Our salvation is not based on our works, but it is intended to produce a life marked by transformed actions that bring glory to God.

James 2:14-23 reinforces this truth by highlighting that genuine faith is evidenced by works. Abraham’s faith was not a mere intellectual belief; it was demonstrated through his obedient actions. His response to God’s call in his journey and the construction of altars were visible manifestations of his unwavering trust in God’s promises.

John 15:4-9 reminds us of the purpose behind our good works. As branches connected to the vine, we are called to abide in Christ and bear fruit. Our good works are not to earn salvation, but to bring glory to God. They reflect the transformative power of God’s grace and point others to the source of our salvation.

Summing it all up, we find that salvation hinges upon grace alone, a gift freely bestowed by God. However, this grace is never alone. It works through faith alone, a response that leads to transformed lives and good works. The ultimate purpose of these works is to bring glory to God alone, magnifying His redemptive power in the world.

Sola

As we reflect on this passage, let us consider its practical application in our lives. Firstly, we are called to stop trying to work for God’s love. Salvation is not something we can earn or achieve through our own efforts. It is a gift freely given by God’s grace. Instead of striving to gain God’s love, let us rest in the assurance that His love is already bestowed upon us. We can embrace the truth that our salvation is rooted in God’s unmerited favor alone, not in our own works or accomplishments.

Secondly, we are invited to stop trying to work for our own glory. It is natural for us to desire recognition, validation, and significance in the eyes of others. However, true fulfillment and purpose come from living for the glory of God alone. Instead of seeking our own glory, let us redirect our focus towards bringing glory to God through our thoughts, words, and actions. When our lives are aligned with His purpose and His will, we find true meaning and fulfillment.

Additionally, we are called to embrace the sufficiency of God’s grace alone. Our works do not add to or enhance the work of salvation accomplished by Christ on the cross. It is through His grace alone that we are saved. Therefore, we can let go of the burden of striving to earn our salvation or relying on our own merits. Instead, we can trust in God’s grace and surrender to His transformative power in our lives.

Lastly, though we are encouraged to live a life characterized by faith alone, we must remember that the kind of faith in view is the kind that never stays alone. While our works do not save us, genuine faith is manifested in a life that bears good fruit. As we trust in God’s promises and His faithfulness, our faith should lead us to obedient actions. We can actively seek to align our lives with His will, following the example of Abraham, who demonstrated his faith through his responsive obedience.