Small Group Guide for "God’s Promise to Abram"

  1. Home
  2. Current Sermon Series
  3. Message Detail
  4. Small Group Guide for "God’s Promise to Abram"

God’s Promise to Abram

Sunday, September 22nd 2024

First Scripture: Genesis 15:1-6

Second Scripture: Hebrews 11:8-16

Use the Two Passages: Focus on the primary and secondary passages used in this sermon.

Pray for Understanding: Before diving into the text, take a moment to pray for guidance and illumination from the Holy Spirit. Ask for wisdom and insight as you study.

Read the Scriptures: Begin by reading the selected Scriptures thoughtfully and prayerfully. Read the passages more than once to familiarize yourself with the content.

Observation Questions: After reading the text, go through the "Observation Questions" section. These questions will help you notice and record specific details about the text. Look for key words, phrases, repeated ideas, and any observations that stand out to you.

Interpretation Questions: Once you've observed the text, proceed to the "Interpretation Questions" section. These questions will guide you in understanding the meaning and context of the passage. Consider the historical and cultural background, the author's intent, and how the passage fits into the larger narrative of the Bible.

Application Questions: Finally, explore the "Application Questions." These questions will help you apply the lessons and insights from the Scriptures to your own life. Reflect on how the text speaks to your faith, relationships, and daily choices.

Journal Your Insights: Write down your observations, interpretations, and applications in a journal or notebook. This will serve as a valuable record of your spiritual growth and understanding of the Word of God.

Discussion and Sharing: If you are studying in a group, take time to discuss your findings with others. Share your insights, listen to their perspectives, and learn from one another.

Pray for Transformation: As you conclude your study, pray for the transformation of your heart and mind. Ask God to help you live out the truths you've discovered in the Scriptures.

Consistency is Key: Make a habit of using this inductive Bible study method regularly. The more you practice, the more confident and skilled you will become in studying and understanding the Bible.

Remember that the goal of this inductive study method is not just to gain knowledge but to deepen your relationship with God and apply His Word to your life. Approach your study with an open heart, a curious mind, and a desire to grow in your faith.

May your study be richly blessed, and may God's Word transform your life as you engage with it through the inductive method.

View the Sermon this Guide was Created For

Introduction

Welcome, everyone! Today, we will be exploring Genesis 15 together. This passage is significant as it describes God’s covenant with Abram, reflecting both Abram’s doubts and God’s unwavering promises. Let’s dive into the text and see what we can learn from Abram's journey of faith.

Opening Prayer

Start by inviting someone to lead an opening prayer or you can pray: "Dear God, as we gather together to study Your word, open our hearts and minds to understand and embrace the lessons You want to teach us. Help us to see Your faithfulness through the story of Abram and apply these truths to our own lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen."

Scripture Reading

Guide the group through the sections of Genesis 15. Consider doing this in three segments to focus the discussion.

1. Genesis 15:1-6 – God’s Promise to Abram

  • Read Aloud: Invite someone to read Genesis 15:1-6.

Takeaways:

  • God initiates the conversation with a comforting assurance: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.”
  • Abram expresses his doubts and concerns: he has no heir, and God’s promises seem unfulfilled.
  • God responds with a reaffirmation of His promise, pointing to the stars and promising descendants as numerous as they.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How do you think Abram felt when God first spoke to him in this passage?
  2. Have you ever doubted a promise from God? What did you do with those doubts?
  3. What does God's response to Abram’s doubt teach us about His character?

2. Genesis 15:7-11 – The Covenant Sacrifice

  • Read Aloud: Invite someone to read Genesis 15:7-11.

Takeaways:

  • God reminds Abram of His previous acts of guidance and deliverance.
  • Abram seeks reassurance, asking for confirmation of God’s promise regarding the land.
  • God instructs Abram to prepare a covenant sacrifice, symbolizing a binding agreement.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Why does Abram ask for reassurance from God, and how does God respond?
  2. What is the significance of the covenant sacrifice in this context?
  3. How do you seek reassurance from God in your own faith journey?

3. Genesis 15:12-21 – God’s Covenant with Abram

  • Read Aloud: Invite someone to read Genesis 15:12-21.

Takeaways:

  • As Abram falls into a deep sleep, God reveals the future to him, including the suffering of his descendants and their eventual deliverance.
  • God formalizes the covenant with a deep and mysterious promise, walking between the sacrifice pieces as a flaming torch, symbolizing His binding commitment.
  • Specific boundaries of the promised land are given, affirming God’s long-term plan.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What emotions might Abram have experienced during this deep sleep and vision?
  2. How does God’s covenant assurance help Abram with his future doubts and challenges?
  3. In what ways has God shown faithfulness in your life, even amidst long waits or doubts?

Group Discussion and Sharing

  • Encourage each person to share an instance where they struggled with doubt and how they saw or are still waiting for God’s faithfulness.
  • Reflect on how this passage impacts your understanding of faith and God’s promises.

Closing Reflection

Summarize the key points discussed:

  • Doubts are a natural part of faith but can lead us to deeper trust in God.
  • God’s promises, no matter how delayed they seem, are unwavering and sure.
  • God invites us to express our concerns and will provide reassurance in His own time.

Closing Prayer

Invite someone to close the group in prayer or you can pray: "Lord, thank You for this time together and for the story of Abram that teaches us about faith and Your promises. Help us to hold on to Your words, especially in times of doubt, and to trust that You will fulfill Your plans in Your perfect timing. Amen."

Thank you all for your participation! Have a blessed week and may we continue to trust in God's promises together.

Top