First Baptist Church Cedar Vale

  Sermon Outline: "Nothing is Too Hard for the Lord" Genesis 17-18 1. God’s Promise to Abraham and Sarah Genesis 17:17-19 Abraham laughed at God’s promise of having a son at his old age. Thomas Watson's Commentary: Abraham’s laughter reflects human weakness in understanding God’s promises, yet reveals God’s power to overcome human limitations. God reaffirms the covenant, emphasizing His sovereignty. Key Verse: “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14) 2. Human Tendency to Bargain with God Genesis 17:18 Abraham attempts to bargain with God over Ishmael, reflecting human fragility. Psalm 50:21: "You thought I was one like yourself. But now I rebuke you." We must rest in God's mercy, recognizing no bargains are needed—Christ has secured salvation on the cross. 3. God’s Reaffirmation of His Covenant Genesis 18:1-8 The Lord appears in the form of three men (a veiled reference to the Trinity). Abraham gives his best to God, preparing a meal. Applicat...

I. Introduction: Learning from Abram’s Journey A. Brief Recap of Genesis 12: Abram’s failure to trust God during the famine and his decision to go to Egypt. Highlight the consequences of relying on his own understanding rather than God’s guidance. Emphasize how these actions led to personal compromise and family tension. B. Transition to Genesis 13: Despite Abram’s failures, God remains faithful. God’s grace is not thwarted by human error; He continues His plan of redemption. II. Choosing Faith over Fear (Genesis 13:1-4) A. Returning to the Place of Worship: After leaving Egypt, Abram returns to Bethel, where he had previously built an altar. Discuss the significance of “returning” and how it symbolizes repentance and realignment with God’s will. B. Worship as a Response to God’s Deliverance: God delivers Abram and Sarai from Egypt, and Abram’s response is worship. The proper response to God’s mercy and grace is worship and gratitude, not guilt or shame. III. The Test ...