GROWTH GROUP QUESTIONS
Genesis 12, 15, 17
12/6/2020
Context and Background:
We’re first introduced to Abram and Sarah when they are 75. This couple is barran, but Abram has taken Lot under his wing. Lot was the son of his dead brother Haran.
Abram and Sarai’s story takes 25 years to unfold and begins with instructions to leave the land of Ur based on some BIG promises from God.
Abram obeys, but he faces many hurdles before he sees the promises of God take shape. Famine, a run in with Pharoah, a break up of his family, war, waiting, mistakes, destruction of neighboring nations, and many conversations with God.
Abram’s relationship with God develops through a long ongoing conversation. Let’s take a closer look.
Observation:
Genesis 12 –
- What are all the things that God promises Abram?
Genesis 15 (10 years later) –
- How is the conversation between God and Abram the same or different between Gen 12 and 15 ?
- God opens by saying “Do not be afraid” what fears could Abram be facing?
- What seems to be troubling Abram and how does he dialogue with God about it?
- How does God respond to Abram’s concerns and questions?
- How does God adjust Abram’s time perspective during his sleep vision?
- What are events that are foretold and foreshadowed?
Genesis 17 (another 14 years later) –
- What new details of his promise and plan does God reveal to Abram in the renewal of his covenant?
- What new relational dynamics are on display in this chapter 17 conversation between Abraham and God?
- How does God deal with the Ishmael mistake that Abraham and Sarah make while waiting?
Interpretation:
- How can God use waiting to develop his relationship with those who belong to him?
- What do we learn about God’s character?
- What are surprising facets of faith and righteousness you’re seeing in Abraham?
Application:
- What are you waiting on God about? How is the conversation evolving in the waiting?
- What questions and insights/fears have surfaced for you as you engage God in your waiting.
- What are God’s promises to us? What makes it hard to hold on to them?
RESPONSE
Who is hurting in our community? Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and to give you wisdom about how you can move towards them in love.
Over the holidays, find one way to reach out to the person(s) the Lord brings to mind. See how God uses your unique gifts and talents to build our community in unity.