Genesis - Part 27

If you want it bad . . .

Meeting Purpose

To discuss Genesis chapters 1-16, focusing on God's interactions with humanity and lessons for today.

Key Takeaways

-             God's approach shifted from intervention pre-flood to interaction/orchestration post-flood

-             Abraham's story demonstrates both faith and human fallibility in following God's plan

-             We can learn from biblical patriarchs about patience, obedience, and trusting God's timing

Topics

Pre-Flood vs Post-Flood Divine Approach

-             Pre-flood: God primarily intervened, with limited interaction (e.g., Enoch, Noah)

-             Post-flood: God began interacting more, guiding people through promises and covenants

-             Shift allows us to see human potential without divine guidance vs with it

Abraham's Call and Journey

-             God called Abram at 75 to leave his homeland (Gen 12:1-4)

-             Demonstrated faith by leaving everything familiar

-             God repeatedly promised numerous descendants (Gen 12, 13, 15)

-             Abraham's faith wavered at times (e.g., passing off Sarah as his sister in Egypt)

Human Impatience vs God's Timing

-             After 10 years without children, Sarah suggested using Hagar as a surrogate (Gen 16)

-             Cultural practice, but not aligned with God's plan

-             Led to long-term consequences (Ishmael's lineage)

-             Illustrates the principle: "If you want it bad, you get it bad"

Patriarchal Legacy

-             Biblical patriarchs were flawed humans, not idealized heroes

-             Their stories show both positive examples and cautionary tales

-             Modern fathers/grandfathers have significant impact on future generations

-             Importance of reconciliation and positive relationships in families

God's Interaction Today

-             Genesis reveals God's ongoing plan for humanity

-             We should expect God to respond to us, but often requires patience

-             Faith can waver, but obedience and trust are key

-             God is forgiving and uses our experiences for growth (sanctification)

Next Steps

-             Reflect on personal "patriarchal" influence and legacy

-             Practice patience in waiting for God's timing and answers

-             Learn from biblical examples to balance faith with human tendencies

Apply the principle

Faith in God’s step-by-step plan for our lives 

Pray before you leap

Expect God to respond

Wait for His answerr

Learn obedience; wisdom

Don’t want it bad