Dive into Session 3 of our Genesis Bible Study series, where we explore the life and legacy of Abraham (Genesis 12–25). Join us as we unpack the profound themes of God's calling, covenant, challenges, and Abraham’s unwavering commitment, revealing the heart of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. In this session, we journey through the story of Abraham, a pivotal figure in the book of Genesis, whose life exemplifies faith, obedience, and God’s grace.

We begin by setting the foundation, as Moses introduces Abraham in his genealogy in Genesis 11:27–32. Originally named Abram, he hailed from Ur of the Chaldees, an idolatrous land, and was raised in a family that served other gods (Joshua 24:2). Despite his barren wife Sarai and the spiritual challenges of his upbringing, God chose Abraham for a divine purpose, initiating a transformative journey that would echo through history.

We’ll explore four key aspects of Abraham’s story:
God’s Calling (Genesis 12:1–3): God called Abraham to leave his homeland, kindred, and father’s house for an unknown land, a command that tested his faith and love for God. This wasn’t just a physical move but a spiritual leap, as Abraham obeyed without knowing the full destination. God’s promises were extraordinary: to make Abraham a great nation, bless him, magnify his name, and bless all families of the earth through him. This call underscores God’s initiative and the power of faith-driven obedience, reminding us to trust and follow the Lord in our own lives.

God’s Covenant (Genesis 12:7, 13:14–16, 15:17–18): God didn’t abandon Abraham after his departure from Ur. Through repeated affirmations, God reassured him of His promises—a land for his descendants and a legacy as numerous as the dust of the earth. In a profound moment, God ratified His covenant by passing through sacrificed animals alone (Genesis 15:17–18), symbolising a binding oath. This act shows God pledging Himself to fulfill His promises, even invoking a self-maledictory oath. The smoking furnace and burning lamp further symbolise God’s presence, guiding and protecting Abraham’s seed, as later seen in the pillar of cloud and fire (Exod 13:21).

Abraham’s Challenges: Abraham’s journey wasn’t without trials. From leaving a familiar homeland to parting with his nephew Lot, facing conflicts, and rescuing Lot from captivity, Abraham encountered significant obstacles. Yet, God’s grace sustained him, comforting him with renewed promises after each trial (Genesis 15:1). These challenges tell of following God’s call and the strength provided through faith, encouraging us to persevere in our spiritual journeys.

Abraham’s Commitment: Abraham’s faith shone through his obedience, from building altars to God (Genesis 12:7) to trusting in God’s promises despite Sarai’s barrenness. His story reflects a life anchored in trust and devotion, making him the “father of faith” (Galatians 3:29). As believers in Christ, we are Abraham’s heirs, adopted into God’s covenant through faith, sharing in the promises of redemption.

This session ties back to our previous discussions. In Session 1, we explored the Creator, creation, corruption, curse, and cure, seeing the fall of man and God’s promise of a Redeemer (Genesis 3). Session 2 covered Genesis 4–11: the effects of sin through Cain’s rebellion, humanity’s multiplied wickedness, and the Tower of Babel’s prideful ambition. Yet, God’s grace and mercy remained evident to redeem His people.

Now, in Session 3, we see God’s redemptive plan unfold through Abraham, whose faith and covenant relationship with God lay the foundation for the nation of Israel and the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. When we read the Bible with God at the centre, we see His majesty, holiness, mercy, and love shining through every page. Abraham’s story shows God is a promise-keeping, covenant-keeping God who calls us to leave sin behind and trust in His salvation.

As Hebrews 11:6 declares, “Without faith, it is impossible to please Him,” but those who seek Him diligently will find Him a faithful rewarder. “Father Abraham has many sons, many sons has Father Abraham. I am one of them, and so are you, so let’s just praise the Lord!” This familiar Sunday School song captures the truth of Galatians 3:29—we are Abraham’s seed through faith in Christ, heirs to God’s promises.

Join Us: Whether you’re new to the faith or a seasoned believer, this study invites you to reflect on God’s calling in your life. Are you ready to trust and obey, as Abraham did? Trust Christ, and embrace the eternal life He promises (John 3:16). Don’t miss this opportunity to grow in faith and understanding of God’s Word.

What to Expect: While we won’t cover Genesis 12–25 verse by verse due to time constraints, this overview provides a rich exploration of Abraham’s life and its significance in God’s redemptive plan.

Church For You is an independent baptist church at 3 Kirk St, Elizabeth Park, Adelaide, South Australia - www.churchforyou.com.au

Pride is identified as the root of sin, leading to destruction and strife. It focuses on self-glory above others, blinding individuals to their need for God's grace. Pride opposes the qualities of love described in 1 Corinthians 13, blocking grace from one's life. #pride #sin #grace #humility #faith #love

Discover the vital role of grace in God's work within us. Humbling oneself allows God to work. Embrace Jesus' yoke of meekness and submission to find true rest and surrender prideful independence. God promises grace. #grace #meekness #submission #faith #Jesus #yoke

Pride cuts off accountability, fostering dictatorship and narcissistic leadership. It births cults and abusive churches. God opposes the proud, offering grace to the humble. Grace is essential; humility unlocks God's grace. #pride #accountability #leadership #grace #humility #spiritualgrowth

Discover how God exchanges a spirit of heaviness for a tailor-made garment of praise. Experience unspeakable joy and a lightness of being as faith replaces despair. Embrace the dress code of the saints and cast off tattered rags. #Faith #Praise #GarmentOfPraise #Isaiah6110 #Joy #Redemption

Join us for an inspiring sermon diving deep into the timeless wisdom of Proverbs 18:12, where we explore the profound contrast between pride and humility.

Proverbs 18:12  Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

This topical teaching examines how pride, the root of all sin, leads to division, destruction, and a graceless life, while humility opens the door to God’s grace, wisdom, and true honour.

In today’s selfie-obsessed, pride-driven culture, the world celebrates self-promotion and personal achievement. Yet, Scripture flips worldly values upside down, revealing that true greatness lies in humility—a heart surrendered to God and focused on serving others.

This sermon highlights the dangers of pride, which blinds us to our need for God’s grace, fosters division, and blocks spiritual growth. Through biblical examples like Lucifer’s fall (Isaiah 14), Adam and Eve’s rebellion (Genesis 3), and the Pharisees’ self-righteousness (Luke 18), we see how pride leads to a downfall, isolates us from accountability, and opposes God’s authority.

In contrast, humility is the path to divine honour. Drawing from the ultimate example of Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:5-8), who humbled Himself to serve and sacrifice, we learn that humility is not weakness but a posture of love, service, and dependence on God. From washing His disciples’ feet to submitting to the Father’s will on the cross, Jesus shows us that before the crown comes the cross, and before glory comes surrender.

Other biblical examples like Joseph, David, Mary, and Moses illustrate how God exalts the humble in His perfect timing.

This message also offers practical steps to cultivate humility in a prideful world: depend on God through prayer, serve others sacrificially, accept correction with grace, honor others above yourself, practice self-examination, seek accountability, speak with grace, and cultivate gratitude. By clothing ourselves with humility (1 Peter 5:5), we open the floodgates to God’s grace, wisdom, and intimacy with Him. The sermon reminds us that pride divides, but humility fosters unity, love, and a vibrant church community.

Key scriptures include Proverbs 18:12, James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5, Philippians 2:5-8, and John 15:5, among others. Discover how to crucify pride, embrace Jesus’ yoke of meekness (Matthew 11:29), and live a life that magnifies the Lord. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth or a deeper walk with God, this sermon will challenge and encourage you to pursue humility as the path to true honour.

Sermon Highlights:
The Dangers of Pride: Pride is the root of sin, leading to destruction, division, and a graceless life (Proverbs 18:12, James 4:6).
The Beauty of Humility: Humility invites God’s grace, wisdom, and exaltation (1 Peter 5:5, Proverbs 11:2).
Biblical Examples: Jesus, Joseph, David, Mary, and Moses show how humility leads to God’s honor.
Practical Steps: Learn to depend on God, serve others, accept correction, and cultivate gratitude to grow in humility.
The Promise of Honour: God dwells with the humble, reviving their spirits and guiding them (Isaiah 57:15).

Call to Action: Reflect on your heart—where is pride lurking? How can you embrace humility today? Join us as we seek to magnify the Lord together (Psalm 34:3) and grow in His grace.

Subscribe for more biblical teachings, share this video to encourage others, and leave a comment with your thoughts on how humility can transform your life and relationships.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word that guides us to true greatness through humility. Help us crucify pride, clothe ourselves with humility, and magnify You in all we do. May Your grace flow through us as we serve others and seek Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Visit www.churchforyou.com.au for more resources on living a humble, God-honouring life.

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Tags: Proverbs 18, humility, pride, biblical sermon, Christian teaching, God’s grace, Jesus Christ, spiritual growth, serving others, biblical humility, true honor, crucifying pride, Christian living, faith, God’s Word, Adelaidechurch

Welcome to an in-depth study of 2 Corinthians 6:14–7:1, a timeless and powerful passage that calls believers to live distinctively as God’s people, set apart for His glory.

The biblical call to separation, the promise of God’s indwelling presence, and the pursuit of holiness in the fear of God. This message is not about legalism or isolation but about embracing the joy and privilege of living a life transformed by God’s grace, reflecting His holiness, and honoring Him as His temple and children.

Sermon Highlights:
The Call to Separation (2 Corinthians 6:14–17): “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” Drawing from the imagery of Deuteronomy 22:10, where an ox and a donkey cannot plow together effectively, Paul illustrates the spiritual mismatch of aligning with those whose values oppose God’s purpose. This is not a call to shun unbelievers—Jesus Himself dined with sinners (Luke 15:2)—but a caution against entangling alliances that compromise our devotion to Christ.

What fellowship can righteousness have with unrighteousness? What communion can light have with darkness? These contrasts—light versus darkness, Christ versus Belial, the temple of God versus idols—emphasize the incompatibility of God’s holiness with the world’s sin. As believers, we are the temple of the living God (1 Corinthians 6:19), where His Spirit dwells, calling us to live distinctly for His glory.

The Promise of God’s Presence (2 Corinthians 6:16–18): “I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” This is not a fleeting visit but a permanent indwelling of God’s Spirit within every believer, individually and collectively. The sermon paints a vivid picture of believers as “mobile temples,” carrying God’s presence wherever we go. God promises to receive us, to be a Father to us, and to call us His sons and daughters. This adoption (Romans 8:15) reflects His fatherly love, embracing us with open arms and granting us the privilege of intimacy, inheritance, and closeness with the Almighty. This promise is not based on our perfection but on God’s grace, guaranteed by His authority.

The Pursuit of Holiness (2 Cor 7:1): Paul concludes with a call to action: “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” This pursuit of holiness is not about achieving sinless perfection but about persistent progress in becoming more like Christ. The sermon emphasizes that holiness involves cleansing both outward sins (e.g., greed, gossip, addiction) and inward sins (e.g., pride, envy, bitterness). Perfecting holiness is an ongoing process of maturing in faith, motivated by reverent awe of God, not dread. This fear of God is a loving devotion, a desire to honour our Father who loves us deeply. The church plays a vital role in this journey, as we encourage, exhort, and hold one another accountable to live for God’s glory.

Practical Applications:
Examine Your Yokes: Reflect on relationships, commitments, or habits that may pull you away from Christ. Are you unequally yoked in marriage, business, or entertainment choices? Prayerfully seek God’s wisdom to break any yoke that hinders your spiritual progress.

Embrace Your Identity: You are the temple of the living God. It's a spiritual reality. Live in a way that honours His dwelling place, avoiding media or pursuits that defile.

Trust God’s Promises: Rest in His indwelling presence and fatherly love. When tempted, declare, “I am God’s temple; I am His child,” and choose to please your Father.

Pursue Daily Cleansing: Psalm 139:23–24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart.” Ask God to cleanse your eyes, ears, heart, and speech daily.

Walk in Awe of God: Cultivate a reverent fear of God. Pray Psalm 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart, O God.”

Encourage One Another: Surround yourself with believers who stir you up to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24). Seek accountability and support to grow together.

Key Takeaways:
This passage is a divine blueprint for a life that honours God. It’s not about prideful moralism but humble consecration to the One who saved us by His precious blood.

God’s grace empowers us to break free from compromising yokes, cleanse our hearts, and walk in awe of Him as His temple and children. God, who began a good work in us, will carry it to completion (Philippians 1:6). Our holiness is not a heavy yoke but a joyful privilege.

It’s a call to grow in grace, not just rest in saving grace, and to live as God’s distinct people, reflecting His glory. Know the assurance of salvation through Christ and walk in the joy of holiness.

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Welcome to our Sunday morning sermon, where we dive deep into the timeless truths of Psalm 103, a beautiful and powerful passage that reveals the heart of God toward His people. In this message, we explore the boundless love, mercy, and righteousness of God, as seen through His character and actions throughout history. Join us as we reflect on how God forgives our sins, heals our diseases, redeems us from destruction, and crowns us with lovingkindness and tender mercies.

Sermon Highlights:
God’s Heart for You (Verses 1–5): The psalm begins with a call to “Bless the Lord, O my soul,” urging us to praise God with our whole being. We are reminded to “forget not all His benefits,” including forgiveness of sins, healing of diseases, redemption from destruction, and the renewal of our strength like the eagles. God’s love is personal, comforting us like a parent and filling our lives with good things.

God’s Righteousness and Justice (Verses 6–10): God executes righteousness and judgment, especially for the oppressed. His ways were revealed to Moses and His acts to the children of Israel, showing His holiness demands justice. Yet, His mercy is plenteous, and He is slow to anger, offering hope through His grace rather than dealing with us according to our sins.

God’s Mercy and Compassion (Verses 11–18): God’s mercy is as high as the heavens, removing our transgressions “as far as the east is from the west.” Like a father pities his children, God understands our frail, fleeting nature—likening us to grass or flowers that wither—yet His mercy is everlasting for those who fear Him. His righteousness extends to future generations for those who keep His covenant.

God’s Sovereign Rule and Call to Praise (Verses 19–22): The Lord reigns from His throne in the heavens, actively ruling over all creation. We are called to join the angels, His hosts, and all His works in blessing and glorifying Him. As we approach the Lord’s Table, we are invited to praise Him for the redemption offered through Jesus Christ.

Key Themes:
God’s Character: Holy, merciful, gracious, and just, God’s nature is worthy of our praise. His actions throughout history demonstrate His unchanging love and care for His people.

Redemption and Mercy: Through Christ’s sacrifice, God redeems us from destruction, removes our sins, and offers eternal life. His mercy far outweighs His wrath, giving us hope and freedom from the burden of sin.

Call to Worship: Psalm 103 calls us to bless the Lord with all that is within us, reflecting on His benefits and glorifying Him as we partake in communion.

Why Watch This Sermon?
This message is a heartfelt reminder of God’s incredible love and grace toward us, despite our weaknesses and sins. Whether you’re feeling weary, burdened by sin, or simply seeking to deepen your faith, Psalm 103 offers encouragement and a renewed perspective on God’s mercy and righteousness. As we prepare to come to the Lord’s Table, this sermon invites you to reflect on the redemption and freedom found in Christ, inspiring you to praise Him with all your heart.

Scripture Reference:
Psalm 103 (KJV): “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies…” (Read the full passage for a complete understanding of God’s heart.)

Reflection Questions:How does reflecting on God’s benefits (forgiveness, healing, redemption) inspire you to praise Him today?
In what ways have you experienced God’s mercy removing your sins “as far as the east is from the west”?
How can we live out the call to “keep His covenant” and trust in Christ’s redemptive work in our daily lives?

Join Us:
As we come to the Lord’s Table, let’s celebrate the redemption and mercy of God through Jesus Christ. This sermon is perfect for anyone seeking spiritual encouragement, a deeper understanding of God’s love, or inspiration to live a life of praise. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more biblical teachings that uplift and challenge your faith. Share this video with someone who needs to hear about God’s everlasting mercy!

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Additional Notes:This sermon was delivered with passion and includes references to personal anecdotes and hymns, making it relatable and engaging.

The message ties into the observance of the Lord’s Supper, emphasising redemption and praise.
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We are an independent baprist churech located at Elizabeth in Adelaide. 3 Kirk St Elizabeth Park.

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