Preaching Abraham (8)

The last text for this brief series is Genesis 17:1-22 -though actually it should begin Gen 16:16 - do you see why? Yesterday's sermon focused on Worship -be open to God's surprises; Ethics - beware loving this world (with some words on Wall Street!); Faith - keep trusting. These big three belong together as foundational for believers.

Turning to Gen 17 there is another vital word. I call it God's amazing 8 letter word. It's already emerged with Noah (Gen 6:18; 9:8-11), but now it's reinforced with Abraham, and resounds on through the story (Exodus 24:5-8, Jeremiah 31:33) and especially with Jesus (Mark 14:24). Yes, the word is COVENANT.

Maybe this word sounds rather dry to you, but it's action-packed about the way that God intends that we belong together.
The main impact of the sermon will be:
By God's grace my sermon will say: God amazingly covenants with believers, effecting our relationships, future, distinctives and our togetherness
And my sermon will do: God's covenant in Christ makes us different people today.