The Journey of the Father
Journey of the Son
From Wher was Avram Called?
The Ages of Avram and Terakh
“Biblical protagonists frequently exit the narrative stage long before their chronological lives are over. For example, Noah dies before the Abraham narrative begins. But a simple calculation shows that Noah dies when Abraham was 58 years old (see Gen. 9:28-29); similarly Isaac was still alive when his grandson Joseph was sold (Gen. 35:28-29). Genesis … is a sweeping series of portraits that trace a character from birth to death before the next character is introduced … The spotlight only falls on Abram once Terah has stepped down, despite the fact that the first events in the Abram story occur during Terah’s lifetime … This narrative style illuminates the correlation between Terah’s journey and God’s revelation to Abram … It is reasonable to conclude that Terah’s decision to immigrate to Canaan is connected to God’s command to Abram.” —Grossman, Jonathan (2016). Abram to Abraham: A Literary Analysis of the Abraham Narrative. Peter Lang. 74-75.
Bibliography
https://bibleproject.com/classroom/abraham
Middleton, J. Richard. Abraham’s Silence: The Binding of Isaac, the Suffering of Job, and How to Talk Back to God. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic: A Division of Baker Publishing Group, 2021.
Cotter, David W. Genesis. Edited by Jerome T. Walsh, Chris Franke, and David W. Cotter. Berit Olam Studies in Hebrew Narrative and Poetry. Collegeville, MN: The Liturgical Press, 2003.
Josephus, Flavius, and William Whiston. The Works of Josephus: Complete and Unabridged. Peabody: Hendrickson, 1987.
Bible Study: Two Journeys – A Study on Genesis 11:27-12:5
This study will help you reflect on the themes of God’s calling, faith, and blessing in the life of Abraham. Over the next few days, meditate on the Scriptures, study key Hebrew words, and apply these lessons to your life.
Day 1: The Journey of the Father – A Life Cut Short
Read: Genesis 11:27-32
Reflection:
1. Terah set out for Canaan but stopped in Haran. Why do you think he did not complete the journey?
2. How does Terah’s incomplete journey contrast with Abraham’s journey in Genesis 12?
3. Are there areas in your life where you have started but not finished what God called you to do?
Hebrew Word Study:
- “Ur” (אוּר) – This word means “fire” or “light.” Ur of the Chaldeans can be understood as “the fire of Babylon.” How does this relate to the refining process of faith?
Application:
Write down any unfinished steps of faith in your life. Pray for God’s guidance to move forward.
Day 2: The Call of God – A New Beginning
Read: Genesis 12:1-3
Reflection:
1. What does God ask Abraham to leave behind? Why is this significant?
2. What does God promise Abraham in return for his obedience?
3. How does God’s call to Abraham parallel His call to believers today?
Hebrew Word Study:
- “Go” (לֶךְ-לְךָ) – Literally translated as “go for yourself” or “go to yourself.” This implies a personal journey of transformation. How does this deepen your understanding of Abraham’s calling?
Application:
Think about a time when God asked you to step into something unknown. How did you respond? Ask God for courage to obey His call.
Day 3: The Journey of Faith – Walking in God’s Promises
Read: Genesis 12:4-5
Reflection:
1. How does Abraham’s response differ from Terah’s journey?
2. What role does faith play in Abraham’s journey?
3. How do you see God’s hand guiding Abraham even before he arrives in Canaan?
Hebrew Word Study:
- “Blessing” (בְּרָכָה – Berakhah) – This word implies a divine favor that enables someone to flourish. How does God’s blessing shape Abraham’s future?
Application:
Identify ways you have seen God’s blessings in your life. Share one of these blessings with someone today.
Day 4: Living the Journey – Trusting in God’s Word
Read: Joshua 24:2, Hebrews 11:8-10
Reflection:
1. What does Joshua reveal about Abraham’s background?
2. How does Hebrews 11 describe Abraham’s faith?
3. How can you live out a faith that trusts God’s promises like Abraham?
Greek Word Study (from Hebrews 11:8):
- “Faith” (πίστις – Pistis) – This word conveys trust, belief, and steadfast confidence. How does this shape our understanding of Abraham’s journey?
Application:
Make a commitment to trust God in a specific area of your life. Pray and take one practical step of faith today.
Conclusion
Abraham’s story teaches us that the key to a successful journey is not human effort but faith in God’s word and promises. As you reflect on these passages, consider how you can apply these lessons in your walk with God.
Memory Verse: Genesis 12:2 – “I will make of you a great nation, I will bless you, and I will make your name great; and you are to be a blessing.”