SHALOM GOSPEL MISSIONARY CHURCH

Pastor Yosief Tesfay

✝️ Introduction

Every great journey begins with a single step — and one of the greatest journeys of faith in the Bible began when God called a man named Abraham. At that time, Abraham was living a simple life in his homeland, surrounded by family, comfort, and familiarity. Yet God had a bigger plan — a plan that would change Abraham’s life and bless the entire world. God said, “Go from your country… to the land I will show you” (Genesis 12:1).

Abraham did not know where he was going. He did not have all the answers. But he believed God and obeyed. That one act of faith became the foundation of God’s covenant promise — a promise that would lead to the birth of a nation, the coming of the Messiah, and salvation for all who believe.

Today, Abraham’s story speaks directly to us. God still calls people to walk by faith, to trust His promises, and to follow Him into the unknown. Like Abraham, we are invited to leave behind our fears and step into God’s amazing plan. His story teaches us that faith is not just believing — it is obeying, trusting, and surrendering to God’s will.

Genesis 12–23

Beloved, the story of Abraham is not just history — it is a message for us today. Through Abraham’s life, God shows us how He works through faith, obedience, and covenant promise.

1. God’s Call Requires Faith – Genesis 12

God called Abraham to leave everything familiar and follow Him to an unknown land. Abraham obeyed, not knowing where he was going. Faith begins with obedience — trusting God’s word even when the destination is unclear.

2. God’s Promise Is Greater Than Our Circumstances – Genesis 13–17

God promised Abraham descendants as numerous as the stars, even though he and Sarah were too old to have children. Abraham believed, and God counted his faith as righteousness. God changed Abram’s name to Abraham, “father of many nations,” showing that His plan is always bigger than our doubts.

3. God’s Covenant Is Sealed by Obedience – Genesis 17

The sign of circumcision showed that Abraham and his family belonged to God. Today, our sign is not physical but spiritual — a heart fully surrendered to God.

4. God Is Faithful to Fulfill His Word – Genesis 18–21

God kept His promise. Sarah gave birth to Isaac, the child of promise. Even after years of waiting, God’s timing was perfect. His promises never fail.

5. Faith Must Be Tested – Genesis 22

God asked Abraham to offer Isaac, the very son he loved. Abraham obeyed, trusting that God would provide — and God did. A ram was given in Isaac’s place, pointing us to Jesus Christ, the Lamb who died in our place.

6. Faith Leaves a Legacy – Genesis 23

Even in Sarah’s death, Abraham’s faith continued. He bought land in the Promised Land, showing that God’s promises extend beyond one lifetime.

✝️ What Abraham Teaches Us Today

• Faith obeys even when the road is unknown.
• God’s promises are sure, even when they seem impossible.
• True faith surrenders everything to God.
• God always provides — in His time and His way.

Abraham trusted God and became the father of faith. Through Jesus Christ, we too become part of that same promise. God still calls us today — to leave behind fear, comfort, and doubt — and to walk by faith toward His perfect plan.

“By faith Abraham obeyed and went…” – Hebrews 11:8