A MINISTRY FOR HUNGRY SAINTS - Word Of Truthwotruth.com/COMMENTARIES-NEW/Genesis/Genesis-21a.pdf · 2017. 5. 27. · (Genesis 13:1-12) Having left Egypt as a very wealthy man, Abram

An overview of the Book of Genesis, by Given O. Blakely

COMMENTARY ON: 13:1-12

Since May, 1993, a ministry instituted for the encouragement of believers in Christ

Lesson #21GENESIS 3:15“And I will put enmitybetween thee and thewoman, and between thyseed and her seed; it shallbruise thy head, and thoushalt bruise his heel.”

“The sceptre shall not departfrom Judah, nor a lawgiverfrom between his feet, untilShiloh come; and unto himshall the gathering of thepeople be.” (Gen 49:10)

ABRAHAM AND LOTABRAHAM AND LOTAbram and Lot left Egypt together, and Abram headed immediatelyfor Canaan – in particular the south, what would be Judah in thefuture. Abram went to the place where his tent had been pitched inthe beginning – when he first arrived in Canaan. There he called uponthe name of the Lord as he did before. Because of the abundance oftheir flocks, Abram and Lot found the place where they were dwellingcould not sustain both of them. This was discovered when theirherdmen began to strive with each other. Knowing that this was notgood, Abram told Lot to pick out the portion of the land he preferred,saying he would select the other part. Lot chose the well-wateredplain of Jordan which, at that time, was similar to the Garden of theLord. Abram dwelt in the land of Canaan, while Lot chose to dwell inthe cities of the plain. Thus the stage is set for some remarkableworks of the Lord that will prove to be points of instructionthroughout history. Even the day of judgment will be effected.

A MINISTRY FOR HUNGRY SAINTS

GENESIS 12:2-3“And I will make of thee agreat nation, and I will blessthee, and make thy namegreat; and thou shalt be ablessing: and I will blessthem that bless thee, andcurse him that curseth thee:and in thee shall all familiesof the earth be blessed.”

And Abraham said, My son,God will provide himself alamb for a burnt offering: sothey went both of themtogether. (Gen 22:8)

A Ministry for Hungry Saints, Series on the Book of Genesis, Lesson #21, Meeting #466– in its 19th year

ABRAHAM AND LOT

INTRODUCTION

A BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TEXTAbram and Lot left Egypt together,

and Abram headed immediately forCanaan – in particular the south, what

would be Judah in the future. Abramwent to the place where his tent had beenpitched in the beginning – when he firstarrived in Canaan. There he called upon

the name of the Lord as he did before.Because of the abundance of their flocks,Abram and Lot found the place wherethey were dwelling could not sustain both

TRANSLATION LEGEND: ABP=Apostolic Bible Polygiot m(1992); ALT=Analytical-Literal Translation (2005), AMPLIFIED=Amplified Bible (1965), ABP=Apostolic Bible Polygot with Greek Interlinear (2003); ASV=American Standard Version (1901),BBE=Bible in Basic English (1949), CEV=Contemporary English Version (1995); DRA=Douay-Rheims (1899), ERV =English RevisedVersion (1885), ESV=English Stand Version (2001), GENEVA=Geneva Bible (1599), GNB=Good News (1966), GWN=God’s Word(1995), IE= International English (1973), ISV=International Standard Version (1967), JPS=Jewish Publication Society (1917), KJV=KingJames Version (1611), L.ITV= Literal Translation of the Bible (1976), LIVING=Living Bible (1971), MESSAGE=The Message (1993),MKJV= Modern KJV (1962), MONTGOMERY=Montgomery’s New Testament (2001), MRD=Peshitta-James Murdock Translation(1852), NAB=New American Bible (2002), NASB=New American Standard Bible (1977), NAU=New American Standard Bible (1995), NIB=New International Bible, NIV=New International Version (1984), NJB=New Jerusalem Bible (1985), NKJV=New King JamesVersion (1979), NLT=New Living Translation (1996), NRSV=New Revised Standard Version (1989), PHILLIPS=J B Phillips NewTestament (1962), PNT=Bishop’s New Testament (1595), RSV=Revised Standard Version (1952), TNK=JPS Tanakj (1985),WEB=Webster Bible (1833),WEYMOUTH=Weymouth’s New Testament (1903), WILLIAMS=William’s New Testament (1937),TYNDALE=Tyndale’s Bible (1526), WYCLIFFE=Wycliffe New Testament (1382), YLT =Young’s Literal Translation (1862).

---------- GREEK LEXICON LEGEND ----------- LEXICON LEGEND: FRIEBERG = Friberg Lexicon, UBS = UBS Lexicon, LOUW-NIDA = Louw-Nida Lexicon, LIDDELL SCOTT =Liddell Scott Lexicon, THAYER = Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, LEH = LEH Lexicon, GINGRICH = Gingrich Lexicon

Lesson Number 21

The Book of Genesis

A MINISTRY INITIATED INMAY 1993, AND DEDICATEDTO STRENGTHENING THOSEWHO ARE IN CHRIST, BYBUILDING THEIR FAITH,ENHANCING THEIR JOY, ANDSTABILIZING THEIR HOPE, ENABLING THEM TO WORKOUT THEIR SALVATION WITHFEAR AND TREMBLING.

THE INSPIRED RECORD OFTHE BEGINNING OF ALLTHINGS: THE HEAVENS ANDTHE EARTH, MANKIND, SIN,THE FIRST CHOSEN ANDBLESSED NATION, THE FIRSTCURSE, THE FIRST PROMISE,AND THE FIRST FAITH.

DISCLAIMER: The quoting of other translations is not to be taken as a condoning of them. My purpose is rather to show the remarkable diversity, and sometimes outrightcontradictions that exist among these various versions of Scripture. Our understanding of the Word of God ultimately depends upon our comprehension of the LordHimself and His eternal purpose. Where this understanding is not present, we are shut up to scholasticism and conjecture, both of which are of the world, not of God.

Gen 13:1 “And Abram went up out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had, and Lot with him, into the south. 2 AndAbram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold. 3 And he went on his journeys from the south even to Bethel, untothe place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Hai; 4 Unto the place of the altar, which he hadmade there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the LORD. 5 And Lot also, which went with Abram, hadflocks, and herds, and tents. 6 And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for theirsubstance was great, so that they could not dwell together. 7 And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram'scattle and the herdmen of Lot's cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land. 8 And Abram saidunto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for webe brethren. 9 Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand,then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left. 10 And Lot lifted up his eyes, andbeheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah,even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar. 11 Then Lot chose him all the plainof Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other. 12 Abram dwelled in the landof Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom..” . . . . . . (Genesis 13:1-12)

Having left Egypt as a very wealthy man, Abram makes his way to an altar, and afterwards faces a challenge – Given O. BlakelyAbraham and Lot -- Page 1 of 20


of them. This was discovered when theirherdmen began to strive with each other.Knowing that this was not good, Abramtold Lot to pick out the portion of the landhe preferred, saying he would select theother part. Lot chose the well-wateredplain of Jordan which, at that time, wassimilar to the Garden of the Lord. Abramdwelt in the land of Canaan, while Lotchose to dwell in the cities of the plain.Thus the stage is set for some remarkableworks of the Lord that will prove to bepoints of instruction throughout history.Even the day of judgment will beeffected.

THE MANNER IN WHICH THERECORD OF ABRAHAM’S LIFE IS

GIVENIt is important that we note the

manner in which the life of Abraham ismade known. Thus far, the followingevents have been recorded.

( The general time when he wasbegotten by Terah (Gen 11:26).

( When he took Sarai to be his wife

(Gen 11:29).

( When he commenced the journeyto Canaan with his father, wife,and Lot his nephew (Gen 11:31).

( When God first appeared to him,telling him to get out of hiscountry, his father’s house, and hiskindred, and go to a land that Hewould show him (Gen 12:1-3).

( The time that he left Haran,commencing the second leg of hisjourney (Gen 12:4).

( The time the Lord appeared to himin Canaan, promising to give himthe land. At this time, Abrambuilt an altar unto the Lord (Gen12:7).

( The time he arrived in Bethel andbuilt a second altar, calling uponthe name of the Lord (Gen 12:3).

( The time of the famine in Canaan,and his temporary migration toEgypt (Gen 12:10).

( The incident with Pharaoh andSarai (Gen 12:11-20).

( When, with Sarai and Lot, he leftEgypt and returned to Canaan(12:20).

Ten events taking place over a

period of more than seventy-five years.

REVELATIONS ABOUT ABRAHAM’S

AGEThe Spirit reveals the age of

Abraham at four key intervals of his life.

( 75 when departed Haran (Gen12:4).

( 86 when Ishmael born (Gen16:16).

( 99 when name changed toAbraham, and Sarai’s name toSarah. At this time it wasconfirmed that Isaac would be bornthe next year (Gen 17:1-21)

( 100 when Isaac born (Gen 21:5).

NOT THE MANNER OF HUMANBIOGRAPHIES

First, this is not the manner inwhich men would write of the life of aperson. All of these above eventsoccurred during a period of twenty-fiveyears.

None of the events relate toAbraham as a mere man. All of themhave to do with his involvement in thepurpose of God – being called of God,and journeying to the land promised tohim.

For Abraham, and by means of hisfaith, he had some awareness of theseassociations, and therefore shaped hislife around the commission and promiseof the Lord. In this, he is a nobleexample for us all.

The Application to UsWe are blessed to be living in a

time when considerable has been saidabout Divine direction and purpose –infinitely more than was known to

We are blessed to be living in a time whenconsiderable has been said about Divinedirection and purpose – infinitely more thanwas known to Abraham.

CONTENTSCONTENTS|| INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION || ABRAM AND LOT LEAVE EGYPT (13:1)(13:1)|| ABRAMABRAM WASWAS VERYVERY RICHRICH (13:2)(13:2)|| WHEREWHERE HISHIS TENTTENT HADHAD BEENBEEN ININ THETHE

BEGINNINGBEGINNING (13:3)(13:3)|| THETHE PLACEPLACE OFOF THETHE ALTARALTAR (13:4)(13:4)|| LOTLOT ALSOALSO HADHAD FLOCKS,FLOCKS, ANDAND HERDS,HERDS,

ANDAND TENTSTENTS (13:5)(13:5)|| THETHE LANDLAND WASWAS NOTNOT ABLEABLE TOTO BEARBEAR

THEMTHEM (13:6)(13:6)|| STRIFESTRIFE AMONGAMONG THETHE HERDMENHERDMEN (13:7)(13:7)|| LETLET THERETHERE BEBE NONO STRIFESTRIFE (13:8)(13:8)|| ISIS NOTNOT THETHE WHOLEWHOLE LANDLAND BEFOREBEFORE

THEE?THEE? (13:9)(13:9)|| THETHE PLAINPLAIN OFOF JORDANJORDAN (13:10)(13:10)|| LOTLOT CHOSECHOSE ALLALL THETHE PLAINPLAIN OFOF

JORDANJORDAN (13:10)(13:10)|| ABRAMABRAM ANDAND LOTLOT DWELLDWELL WHEREWHERE THEYTHEY

PREFERREDPREFERRED (13:11)(13:11)|| CONCLUSIONCONCLUSION



Abraham. Here are a few of thoseconsiderations, none of which, so far asthe record is concerned, had beenrevealed to the patriarch Abraham.

( God keeps the feet of His saints (1Sam 2:9).

( The steps of a good man aredirected by the Lord (Psa 37:23).

( God turns the heart of kings (Prov21:1).

( The angels are charged withkeeping the saints (Psa 91:11; Heb1:13-14).

( No adversary can pluck God’speople out of His hand, or succeedin separating them from the love ofGod which is in Christ Jesus (John10:28-29; Rom 8:35-39).

( God works all things together forgood to those who love Him andare the called according to Hispurpose (Rom 8:28).

( God will finish His work, and cut itshort in righteousness (Rom 9:28).

( The gifts and calling of God arewithout repentance (Rom 11:29).

( God makes His people stand (Rom14:4).

( God is faithful (1 Cor 1:9; 10:13).

( God does not allow His people to

be tempted above their ability (1Cor 10:13).

( God not only begins the goodwork, but brings it to itscompletion (Phil 1:6)

( God’s people are kept by thepower of God through faith (1 Pet1:5).

( The Lord keeps His people fromfalling (Jude 1:24).

Marvelous realities like these hadnot been revealed prior to Abraham, norduring his lifetime. Yet, his faithoperated as though they were fullyknown by him. That is the nature offaith. That is how a person reacts towhom it has been given to believe.

Spiritual InfancyWhile spiritual infancy is a phase of

life that must yield to godly maturity, itis not a time during which blunders andfailings must dominate. If we doubtthis, we must consider thesteadfastness of Abraham. Thedifficulties with spiritual immaturity arefound in its continuance beyond areasonable period of time (Heb 5:12).There is a period associated withbeginnings during which God causes aperson to stand (Rom 14:4), protectingthem from the jeopardies of being“children” in understanding. However,this protection postulates growth anddevelopment in the faith. If that growthdoes not occur, a fall is inevitable (Gen6:4-6).

This is the nature of spiritual life,and it is lived out in the person ofAbraham. As we progress through hislife, we will behold his faith growing,and his reasoning becoming morestrong. All of this takes place eventhough he, by way of comparison, hadreceived a comparatively small amountof revelation.

Consider the life of the patriarch inview of what had not been revealed tohim.

( A Messiah who would take awaysin.

( The fact of reconciliation to God.

( The promise of eternal life.

( God’s eternal purpose.

( The reality of sanctification.

( That God has a household.

( That the world is going to bedestroyed by fire.

( The day of judgment.

( The work of changing people fromglory to glory by the Holy Spirit.

( The hope of glory.

( The imputation of righteousness.

A ConclusionThe life of Abraham is a

confirmation to us that faith will standthe test of trial, the length of time, andthe call fo obedience. Our review of thelife of this saint of God must beattended by an acute awareness ofthese circumstances.

It is time to confront the illogicalnature of perpetual infancy and spiritualignorance. The continued existence ofthese conditions are a glaringcontradiction of both the reality andnature of salvation. A salvation thatdoes not really save is not valid.

Marvelous realities like these had not beenrevealed prior to Abraham, nor during hislifetime. Yet, his faith operated as thoughthey were fully known by him. That is thenature of faith. That is how a person reactsto whom it has been given to believe.



ABRAM AND LOT LEAVE EGYPT

Gen 13:1 “And Abram went up out ofEgypt, he, and his wife, and all that hehad, and Lot with him, into the south.”

Our attention is now turned fromPharaoh to Abram. The previouschapter ends with these words: “andthey sent him away, and his wife, andall that he had” (Gen 12:20). This,however, was only according toappearance. The reality of the case isthat Abram left willingly, of his ownaccord. He knew what time it was!

WENT UP OUT OF EGYPT“And Abram went up out of Egypt

. . .” Other versions read, “up fromEgypt,” NKJV “left Egypt,” GWN “fromEgypt returned,” NJB “returned Egypt,”WEB “left Egypt and traveled north,” LIVING

“went north out of Egypt,” GNB and “leftEgypt and went back.” MESSAGE

Having spent sufficient time inEgypt to outlast the famine in Canaan,Abram returns to the land to which Godhad directed him. He returns with hiswife and possessions, and Lot with hisfamily and possessions. Further, theywere better off than they were whenthey were forced to sojourn in Egypt.Although they were strangers in Egypt,they were protected by the favor ofPharaoh during their tenure in the land.God had directed their steps, giventhem favor with men, and caused themto abound.

AND ALL THAT HE HAD“ . . . he, and his wife, and all that

he had, and Lot with him . . .”

About five hundred years later,when Israel came out of Egypt, they didnot leave “an hoof behind” (Ex 10:26).Now, when Abram comes out of Egypt.Nothing that he owned was left behind.This was a confirmation that hisremoval from Egypt was of the Lord.

A Type of Spiritual LifeOur pilgrimage to glory is

characterized by moves from one place

to another – from the lower to thehigher. One of the ways we know thatour move has been the result of theLord’s direction is when we are able tokeep the legitimate goods we came topossess while we were in the lowlands.There are, for example, some validperceptions that we gained when we

were in Babylon. They did not comefrom Babylon itself, but were given tous by the Lord – similar to the wordsHe delivered to Daniel when he was inBabylon. When we made our exodusfrom that stunted environment, wewere able to take all of truth we hadgrasped with us. In fact, the things we



were given to see from time to timecaused friction in the environment inwhich we found ourselves.

INTO THE SOUTH“ . . . into the south.” Other

versions read, “to the south,” NKJB “tothe Negev,” NASB “to the Negeb,” NRSV

“towards the south,” DARBY “went to theNegev,” GWN “into the wilderness,”SEPTUAGINT “into the south,” RWB “travelednorth into the Negeb,” LIVING and “intothe South [country of Judah, theNegeb].” AMPLIFIED

The “south” refers to the southernpart of Canaan, and “Negeb” is atransliteration of the Hebrew wordtranslated “south” – bg n �negeb {neh'-gheb} Meaning: 1) south-country, Nekeb, south1a) south-country 1a1) region of southernJudah,

SOMETHING TO NOTEThere is something of interest to be

seen in the route traveled by Abram toCanaan, and the one taken by Israelseveral centuries later. It is indicated inthe preceding maps.

Abram took a more direct route toCanaan, while Israel’s trek was ofconsiderably greater length. Theytraveled southward from Egypt insteadof in a northerly direction. This, it isrevealed, was in order to avoid amilitary conflict which woulddiscouraged the heart of the people.Thus, it is written, “And it came topass, when Pharaoh had let the peoplego, that God led them not through theway of the land of the Philistines,although that was near; for God said,Lest peradventure the people repent

when they see war, and they return toEgypt: But God led the people about,through the way of the wilderness ofthe Red sea: and the children of Israelwent up harnessed out of the land ofEgypt” (Ex 13:17-18).

Add to this the fact that whenIsrael did arrive at the border of Canaan,they provoked God to anger throughtheir unbelief. They were forced towander in a circuitous route through thewilderness for forty years, untileveryone of that unbelieving generationdied.

From this, at least two validperspectives can be gained.

( SPIRITUAL WEAKNESS MAKES FOR SLOWPROGRESS. When Israel left Egypt,they were militarily weak. Theywere not accustomed to warfare,and therefore were taken in a routethat avoided hostility. They couldnot remain in this condition, buthad to become stronger. Duringthat time, they were not close tothe promised land.

The same is true of those who arein Christ Jesus. When they are“added to the Lord,” they are notaccustomed to spiritual warfare,and are thus led by the Lord in away that purposefully avoids fierceconflict. However, should that timeof non-militancy extend over anunjustified period of time, littleprogress will be made towardspiritual maturity. Less of thebenefits that are realized in Christby faith will be obtainable whilethey remain in that weakened

state. The saints of God have beencalled into a warfare (1 Cor 9:7; 2Cor 10:3-4; 1 Tim 1:18; 2 Tim2:3-4; Eph 6:12; 1 Cor 9:26; 1 Tim6:12; 2 Tim 4:7).

( UNBELIEF MAKES FOR WANDERING.Because Israel refused to believeGod, choosing rather to tremblebefore giants and faint at the sightof walls of resistence, they wereblocked from entering the promisedland.

Those unbelievers are set forth asexamples to those who are inChrist Jesus, lest they come shortin the matter of believing God (Heb3:12-19; 4:6-11). From beginningto end, salvation is “by gracethrough faith” (Eph 2:5-8). Becauseof this, faith is not only to bemaintained, but must be kept in astate of growth and increase (2Thess 1:3). The apprehension ofthe various benefits of salvation isdirectly proportionate to the stateof ones faith. I do not believe thisis a common perception in themodern church.

It should not surprise us that thelife of Abraham contains so many typesand shadows. He is, after all, “thefather of us all” (Rom 4:16) – that is,“us” believers. There is only “onefaith,” and it is the kind Abraham had!

God has often raised up singleindividuals in whom particular thingsare made known.

( ADAM. Perfection in creation.

( CAIN. Unbridled nature of sin.

( ENOS. Becoming God-conscious ina fallen world.

( ENOCH. Walking with God in awicked environment.

( METHUSELAH. Longevity of life.

( NOAH. The saving of some

The apprehension of the various benefits ofsalvation is directly proportionate to the stateof ones faith. I do not believe this is acommon perception in the modern church.



because of the righteousness ofanother.

( ABRAHAM. An exhibit of truefaith.

( JOSEPH. The triumph offaithfulness.

( MOSES. Faithfulness.

( SAMSON. Extraordinary strength.

( SOLOMON. Extraordinary wisdom.

( DAVID. Spiritual sensitivity.

( JOHN THE BAPTIST. The power ofisolation.

( PETER. The significance of change.

( PAUL. The capacity to understandthe things of God.

A POINT OF EMPHASISIt is imperative that those in Christ

see that the faith Abraham had is aDivine exhibition of the faith that savesthe soul. A professed faith that is at

variance with the faith of Abraham isnot faith at all – it is wholly spurious! Aprofessed faith that does not compelthe person to obey God, is no faith atall. A faith that does not lead a personto live wholly for the Lord, is a fictitiousfaith. A faith that does not drive theindividual to be where God wants him,is nothing more than a figment of theimagination. A faith that balks at thepromises of God, or considers them tobe beyond reach, or not to be desired,is a faith that has its genesis in thedevil – not God.

In Scripture, even those who hadwere novices, and described as being“weak” in faith, lived conscientiouslyfor the Lord (Rom 14:1-22). Theweakness of such a person is not that

he does not trust the Lord, but that hisscope of understanding the truth is notlarge enough. Thus he lives underunnecessary restrictions. Yet, such anone does so as unto the Lord.

Spiritual life is intended to increasein both understanding and doing. Theengine that drives this life is faith, andthe power that energizes faith is grace.If the individual continues to crucify theflesh, taking up his cross every day (Lk9:23), and if life is lived exclusively“unto Him which died for them and roseagain” (2 Cor 5:15), the requiredadvancement in the faith will takeplace. All of this will be made clear inthe life of Abraham. An obviousadvancement will become evident inhim as his life progresses.

ABRAM WAS VERY RICH

“ 2 And Abram was very rich incattle, in silver, and in gold.” Otherversions read,. “rich in livestock, silver,and gold,” NKJV “very wealthy inlivestock, and in silver and in gold,” NIV

“had great wealth of cattle and silverand gold,” BBE “very rich in possession ofgold and silver,” DOUAY “exceedinglywealthy in cattle, in silver, and in gold,”YLT “He owned many cattle, sheep, andgoats, and had a lot of silver and gold,”CEV “many animals and much silver andgold,” ERV “extremely rich in livestockand in silver and in gold.” AMPLIFIED

Abram is the first person ofScripture who is declared to have beenrich, or wealthy. Job, who is considered

to have lived during the same timeperiod of Abram, is also noted forhaving many possessions, being thegreatest of all men in the east. “Hissubstance also was seven thousandsheep, and three thousand camels, andfive hundred yoke of oxen, and fivehundred she asses, and a very greathousehold; so that this man was thegreatest of all the men of the east” (Job 1:3). He is not said to havepossessed gold or silver, until after histrial, when all of his brothers, sisters,and all who had been his “acquaintancebefore”gave him “a piece of money,and every one an earring of gold” (Job42:11).

Other men who are said to havebeen rich include:

( Solomon (1 Kgs 10:23).

( Hezekiah (2 Kgs 20:12-18).

( Joseph of Arimathaea (Matt27:57).

( A certain “rich man” who “faredsumptuously every day” (Lk16:19).

( A young ruler who inquired ofJesus what he should do to obtaineternal life (Lk 18:18-23).

Spiritual life is intended to increase in bothunderstanding and doing. The engine thatdrives this life is faith, and the power thatenergizes faith is grace.



( Zacchaeus (Lk 19:2).

In regard to riches, Abram wasamong the elite of the earth, and is thefirst one described as having anabundance.

A Modern-Day ErrorSome modern-day teachers have

used Abraham as an example they sayconfirms that God desires for His peopleto be wealthy. The fewness of thegodly who were rich contradicts thataffirmation, as well as the total absenceof anything commendable being said ofriches. The following words concerningriches of all sorts speak for themselves.

( SOMETIMES “LITTLE” IS BETTER. “A littlethat a righteous man hath is betterthan the riches of many wicked”(Psa 37:16).

( DO NOT SET YOUR HEART UPON RICHES.“Trust not in oppression, andbecome not vain in robbery: ifriches increase, set not your heartupon them” (Psa 62:10).

( ASSOCIATED WITH THE UNGODLY.“Behold, these are the ungodly,who prosper in the world; theyincrease in riches” (Psa 73:12).

( BEFORE GOD, THEY MEAN NOTHING. “Therich and poor meet together: theLORD is the maker of them all” (Prov 22:2).

( PROMOTES CONCEIT, OR SELF-LOVE. “Therich man is wise in his ownconceit; but the poor that hathunderstanding searcheth him out” (Prov 28:11).

( PROMOTE WORRY. “The sleep of alaboring man is sweet, whether heeat little or much: but theabundance of the rich will notsuffer him to sleep” (Eccl 5:12).

( IF POSSESSED RICHES ARE NOT TO BEGLORIED IN. “Thus saith the LORD,Let not the wise man glory in his

wisdom, neither let the mighty manglory in his might, let not the richman glory in his riches” (Jer 9:23).

( RICHES MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO ENTER GOD’SKINGDOM. “Then said Jesus unto hisdisciples, Verily I say unto you,That a rich man shall hardly enterinto the kingdom of heaven. Andagain I say unto you, It is easier fora camel to go through the eye of aneedle, than for a rich man to enterinto the kingdom of God” (Matt19:23-24).

( RICHES ARE DECEITFUL, DISTRACTING THEHEART. “And the cares of this world,and the deceitfulness of riches, andthe lusts of other things enteringin, choke the word, and itbecometh unfruitful” (Mark 4:19).

( GOD SENDS THE RICH AWAY EMPTY. “Hehath filled the hungry with goodthings; and the rich he hath sentempty away” (Luke 1:53).

( OUR LIFE DOES NOT CONSIST OF THETHINGS WE POSSESS. “And he saidunto them, Take heed, and bewareof covetousness: for a man's lifeconsisteth not in the abundance ofthe things which he possesseth”(Luke 12:15).

( THE LOVE OF MONEY IS THE ROOT OF EVIL.“For the love of money is the rootof all evil: which while somecoveted after, they have erred fromthe faith, and pierced themselvesthrough with many sorrows” (1Tim 6:10).

( RICHES ARE UNCERTAIN. “Charge themthat are rich in this world, that theybe not highminded, nor trust inuncertain riches, but in the livingGod, who giveth us richly all thingsto enjoy” (1 Tim 6:17).

( THE RICH ARE TO REJOICE WHEN THEY AREMADE LOW. “Let the brother of lowdegree rejoice in that he is exalted:But the rich, in that he is madelow: because as the flower of thegrass he shall pass away” (James1:9-10).

I do not know how any person ofintegrity and spiritual understanding candefend the view that God wants Hispeople to be rich, or that they are to beexpected when one is living in a posturethat is pleasing to God.

It also ought to be noted thatduring the time of our text, there is aglaring absence of any references toheaven or eternity. The presence ofthose realities is the environment oftrue teaching concerning riches.

THE MANNER OF REVELATIONAt the time of our text, there had

been bo revelation about being foreverwith the Lord, the eternal purpose ofGod, transformation, or the resurrectionbody. All revelation – every recordedinstance of it – had to do with life inthis world. The words “eternal” and“eternity” had not yet been mention bythe Lord to man. The “eternal God” ismentioned by Moses in Deuteronomy33:17), and God is depicted as onewho “inhabiteth eternity” by Isaiah (Isa57:15). Those are the first two uses ofthose words in Scripture. The word“everlasting” was used once before thistext in God’s word to Noah: “And thebow shall be in the cloud; and I will look

The fewness of the godly who were richcontradicts that affirmation, as well as thetotal absence of anything commendable beingsaid of riches.



upon it, that I may remember theeverlasting covenant between God andevery living creature of all flesh that isupon the earth” (Gen 9:16). There, theemphasis was on a covenant that waslasting, and probably did not mean thesame thing to Noah as it does to thosewho live under a greater and moreextensive light.

An Example of FaithAbraham is consistently held out as

an example of faith. He is neverdeclared to be an example of prosperitythat God intends for all of His children.Considering the age in which he lived,and the sparse amount of spiritual lightthat was given, it seems to me thatsomething would have been written byinspiration if Abraham were intended to

be an example God’s preference tomake his people wealthy. Suchinstruction would certainly have beenpossible, considering that Moses wrotethis record hundreds of years after theevents of this text. It would have beenvery easy for some inspired editorialremarks to be made that stated Godmade Abram wealthy as an example.But, alas, none are found.

WHERE HIS TENT HAD BEEN IN THE BEGINNING

“ 3 And he went on his journeysfrom the south even to Bethel, unto theplace where his tent had been at thebeginning, between Bethel and Hai”

Keep in mind that Abram istraveling with his wife, Lot and hisfamily, all of their herds, and their silverand gold as well. The distance isconsiderably more than two hundredmiles. In a journey like that, riches donot appear as advantageous as they dowhen the person is settled in a

particular place.

A Lesson to Be LearnedJesus warned that the things of

this world and ones’ attraction to theminhibit spiritual life, and finally, if notchecked, will stifle it altogether. “Andthese are they which are sown amongthorns; such as hear the word, And thecares of this world, and thedeceitfulness of riches, and the lusts ofother things entering in, choke theword, and it becometh unfruitful” (Mark4:18-19).

Abraham held the things of thisworld loosely, and was not dominatedby a desire for them. We know this isthe case because it is said of him, “Byfaith he sojourned in the land ofpromise, as in a strange country,dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac andJacob, the heirs with him of the samepromise: For he looked for a city whichhath foundations, whose builder andmaker is God” (Heb 11:9-10).

Abram was compelled by thepromise of God. Because of this hecounted the world a “strange” place –even when he was in the promised landitself.

Let us learn from this that those inChrist are to be characterized by acertain posture. They are exhorted to“abstain from fleshly lusts that war

against the soul” (1 Pet 2:11), notallowing the desire for “other things” toenter into their hearts.

Many a professing Christian hasstagnated because of having distractingthings, and allowing them to shift theemphasis of their life.

HE JOURNEYED TO BETHEL“And he went on his journeys from

the south even to Bethel . . .” Otherversions read, “he went from place toplace until he came to Bethel,” NIV “hejourneyed on from the Negebas far asBethel,” NRSV and “He went by stagesfrom the Negev to Bethel.” CSB

This is the second mention ofBethel in the Scripture, the first beingwhen Abram pitched his tent betweenBethel and Ai (Gen 12:8). This is thefirst thing of record that he did afterGod had appeared to him in Shechem,declaring “Unto thy seed will I give thisland” (Gen 12:7). After calling upon thename of the Lord, he moved in asoutherly direction, finally arriving onBethel. After building a second altar, heagain called upon the name of the Lord.Then he continued going toward thesouth. It was at that point that heconfronted the famine, and went downinto Egypt.

WHERE HIS TENT HAD BEEN IN THEBEGINNING



“ . . . unto the place where his tenthad been at the beginning, betweenBethel and Hai.” Other versions read,“where his tent hd been earlier.” NIV

Now, after spending some time inEgypt, he returns to Bethel as thoughresuming his sojourn in Canaan. Hereturns to the place he last called uponthe name of the Lord in Canaan. Therethe promise of God was alive in hismemory – a promise that had no doubtsustained him while he sojourned inEgypt.

It is important to note that Abramdid not return to the place identifiedwith his initial entrance into Canaan:Shechem. That is where he built hisfirst altar, but that is not where hereturned. He returned to the placewhere he built his second altar, andwhere the promise of God was fresh inhis mind. This also was the place of amountain – a high place in more thanone way (Gen 12:8).

A Kingdom SecretOne of the secrets of spiritual

growth is knowing where to returnwhen life has lead you into a strangeplace – whether through duty, someform of spiritual famine, etc. Somepeople are fond of always thinking ofthe point where they first were drawn

out of the pit of condemnation. That isthe reference point they think best suitstheir recovery, or momentary setbacks.I am quick to say that there are timeswhen this is the proper thing to do,recalling when you “first trusted inChrist” (Eph 1:12). That is an occasionthat must never be forgotten. Even inthose remembrances, we must learn tothink more deeply about when we firsttrusted Christ, seeing more in it,perceiving the working of God morethoroughly.

If the remembrance of our firsttrust brings joy, thankfulness, andconfidence, what of the remembranceof when the day dawned, and “the DayStar” arose in our hearts (2 Pet 1:19).Or, what of the time when the “eyes ofour understanding” were opened, andwe saw more clearly “the hope of Hiscalling . . .” (Eph 1:18-19). What of thetime when you first saw the glory ofbeing justified by faith (Rom 5:1), or the

reality of the inner warfare (Rom 7:15-14), or the distinctions of “the old man”and “the new man” (Eph 4:22-24; Col3:9-10). What of the time when yousaw “the New Covenant” in a moregrand and effective manner (Heb8:8:13)? Or when you realized thepotency and necessity of edification(Eph 4:11-16)? What of the time youperceived the truth of predestinationand election (Rom 8:19-30), or beganto comprehend that it is God whoworks in you “both to will and to do ofHis own good pleasure” (Phil 2:20).

How good it is to return to thesehigh points of spiritual life, and againsurvey the realities that wereundergirded by great and preciouspromises – realities that caused faith toincrease, fueled our hope, and causedjoy to abound. This is something thatmust be seen, and when it is there willbe a marked acceleration in growth abdspiritual advancement.

THE PLACE OF THE ALTAR

“ 4 Unto the place of the altar,which he had made there at the first:and there Abram called on the name ofthe LORD.”

Here is a place identified by an altarthat was built there – “the place of thealtar.” It was a place of insight adthanksgiving – a high place whereAbram had gone after first hearing thepromise that the land in which he foundhimself would be given to his seed. Onecan only imagine what blessed

memories were associated with thatplace. He had been faithfully led thereby God Himself – a trip of over 1,500miles. He was better off when he firstarrived there, even though he had lefthis home land, the city of Ur, and hiskindred behind. Now, he is there for thesecond time, and he is even moreblessed than he was the first time.

A KINGDOM PRINCIPLEIn God’s dealing with men, Jesus

taught, the Divine expectation is that

with the passing of time, the steward ofGod should increase the measure thathas been given to him. The parables ofthe talents and the pounds particularlyreveals this fact (Matt 25:15-28' Lk19:13-24). The judgment of God will bebased upon this principle.

We must also see that this is builtinto the very fabric of spiritual life. Thebody of Christ as a whole is expectedto “increase” (Eph 4 :16; Col 2:19)).The child of God is to be “increasing in

How good it is to return to these high points ofspiritual life, and again survey the realities that wereundergirded by great and precious promises –realities that caused faith to increase, fueled ourhope, and caused joy to abound.



the knowledge of God” (Col. 1:10).Love for one another is to “increase” (1Thess 3:12; 4:10). The word “abound”involves the idea of increase (Rom15:13; 2 Cor 8:7; 1 Thess 3:12; 4:1; 2 Pet 1:8). The same is true of theword “fruitful” or “fruit,” which includethe idea of addition and increase (Rom7:4; Col 1:10). Let it be clear that thisis the manner of the Kingdom.

In the life of Abraham, we see thisprinciple lived out. He had more inHaran than he did in Ur. When hereturned from Egypt. He had more inCanaan than he did in Haran

One of the great failings of themodern church is its lack of increase ingifts and insight given by God. In anuncomfortably consistent way, the

modern church thinks of increase onlyin terms of numbers. This is mostunfortunate, because the addition ofnumbers is something that is a Divineactivity, not a human one (Acts 2:47).Men labor, but it is always God thatgives the increase – not only innumbers, but in personal perception (1Cor 3:6-7), and other matters pertainingto spiritual advancement.

LOT ALSO HAD FLOCKS, AND HERDS, AND TENTS

“ 5 And Lot also, which went withAbram, had flocks, and herds, andtents.”

Lot being with Abraham yielded thesame results that Moses promised tohis brother-in-law’s son, if he would joinwith Israel in their journey to Canaan:“We are journeying unto the place ofwhich the LORD said, I will give it you:

come thou with us, and we will do theegood: for the LORD hath spoken goodconcerning Israel” (Num 10:29). It is asthough the blessing of Abram spilledover into the household of Lot. Whilethis is something that cannot beautomated, or caused to happen bymen, there are advantages to preferringto be around the people of God.

This is the opposite of theexpression of the first Psalm: “Blessedis the man that walketh not in thecounsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in

the way of sinners, nor sitteth in theseat of the scornful” (Psa 1:1).Knowing how to choose proper friendsand companions is important. Insightfulpeople will prefer to be aroundspiritually mature people – like Timothywith Paul.

One of the great weaknesses of ourtime is the preference of professed

Christians for peers and close friends.Even in supposed recovery groups,people with similar weaknesses thinkthey somehow gain an advantage bybeing with others who have that camefailing. It is also seen in dividing upbelievers according to certain groups,never allowing for the whole body to betogether.

There are several examples ofpeople who gained blessed advantagesby choosing the people of God as theircompanions, or siding with them during

critical times.

( THE HEBREW MIDWIVES. When Pharaohcommanded the Hebrew midwivesto slay all the Hebrew malenewborns, they refused to do so,siding with the Jews. This was therevealed result: “Therefore Goddealt well with the midwives: andthe people multiplied, and waxedvery mighty” (Ex 1:15-21),

( RAHAB OF JERICHO. Then, there wasRahab, who chose to side with theIsraelites, hiding and protectingthose who came to spy out theland. When Jericho was destroyed,and before it was burned, it iswritten, “And the young men thatwere spies went in, and broughtout Rahab, and her father, and hermother, and her brethren, and allthat she had; and they brought outall her kindred, and left themwithout the camp of Israel” (Josh6:23). Rahab is in the Messianiclineage, giving birth to Boaz, greatgrandfather of David (Matt 1:5).

( RUTH THE MOABITESS. After becominga widow, and being faced withhaving to make a choice of stayingin her homeland or returning withNaomi to Israel, she chose toremain with her mother-ion-lawNaomi. Her words of determinationare recorded for us: “whither thou

While this is something that cannot beautomated, or caused to happen bymen, there are advantages to preferringto be around the people of God.



goest, I will go; and where thoulodgest, I will lodge: thy peopleshall be my people, and thy Godmy God” (Ruth 1:16). Ruth is alsoin the Messianic lineage, givingbirth to Obed, David’s grandfather(Matt 1:5).

( A CERTAIN CENTURION. Think of theadvantage that a certain centuriongained by preferring the Jews, andeven building a synagogue for them(Luke 7:1-10). His son was healedbecause of that choice.

The impact of chosen companions

upon the lives of people cannot bedenied. They play a key role in theshaping of ones life. Few people havebeen able to successfully overcome apreference for ungodly people, whetheras friends, or as mates. Evil companionsdo corrupt good morals (1 Cor 15:33).Om that this was more fully known!

THE LAND WAS NOT ABLE TO BEAR THEM

“ 6 And the land was not able tobear them, that they might dwelltogether: for their substance was great,so that they could not dwell together.”

We now come to a point whereprosperity actually became a hindrance–at least that is how it appeared.However, we will find that behind thescenes God is working with His purposein mind. That fact alters the way thatwe must view this passage.

As always, the revealed purpose ofGod is a sort of template that must beplaced over the recorded events ofScripture. The Word of God containshistory, but it is not a history book, andis not to be read as though it was.When one approaches the Scriptures itis imperative that they consider them“the word of God.” We are apprisedthat “all Scripture is given by theinspiration of God” (2 Tim 3:16). Weare also told that the mystery that was“kept secret since the foundation of the

world,” “is now made manifest by theScriptures” (Rom 16:26).

As the Scriptures are read andpondered, they must be considered withGod’s purpose in mind, for God hasorchestrated all of creation and all ofhistory to reflect what He is doing inthe world. Everything is driven by apurpose – His eternal purpose (Eph3:11). In the Scriptures statements aremade, and events are said to havetaken place to reflect Divine mannersand purpose. This is all in order that wemay see things properly, or “walk in thelight as He is in the light” (1 John 1:7).

Even though men like Enoch, Noah,Abraham, Moses, etc. were not awareof the details of God’s purpose, theywere used to show the nature andeffectiveness of what God hasdetermined to do in Christ Jesus. Theholy Prophets, who spoke of “thesufferings of Christ and the glory thatshould follow” (1 Pet 1:11), were onlygiven a rough outline of the purpose ofGod. Although they searched for andlonged to see the details of theMessiah’s salvational reign, to them “itwas revealed, that not untothemselves, but unto us they didminister the things, which are nowreported unto you by them that havepreached the gospel unto you with theHoly Ghost sent down from heaven;which things the angels desire to lookinto” (1 Pet 1:12).

Therefore, as we review this text,we will do so through the Lens of

Divine purpose. Only then will we begiven some illumination into the waysand purpose of the Lord. If it iscountered that such understanding isnot necessary, we must remember thateternal life is meticulously defined asknowing God, and Jesus Christ whomHe has sent (John 17:3). It isimperative, therefore, that what CAN beknown of God be ingested into thethinking processes of the one whobelieves and follows Jesus Christ. I donot know how it is possible to advancein the knowledge of God whileremaining ignorant of what can beknown of Him.

THE LAND WAS NOT ABLE TO BEARTHEM

“And the land was not able to bearthem, that they might dwell together: . . .” Other versions read, “able tosupport them,” NKJB “could not sustainthem,” NASB “the land was not wideenough for the two of them,” BBE “therewasn't enough pastureland for both ofthem,” GWN “was not sufficient toaccommodate them both at once,” NJB

“the land could not support both Abramand Lot with all their flocks and herds,”LIVING “did not have space for them in theland,” ABP and “the land was not able tonourish and support them.” AMPLIFIED

The Scriptures are most precise indescribing this situation. This was notthe result of any friction betweenAbram and Lot. It was not owing to anyfundamental discontent on the part ofLot, or any intolerance for Lot on the



part of Abram.

Their exceeding wealth in flocksand herds Introduced this problem:there simply were not enough naturalresources to sustain them both. That is,together they had too many flocks andherds to be fed by the produce there.

THEY COULD NOT DWELLTOGETHER

“ . . . for their substance wasgreat, so that they could not dwelltogether.” Other versions read, “theirpossessions were so great they couldnot dwell together,” NKJV “they were notable to remain together,” NASB “theycould not live together,” NRSV “Therewere too many animals for the availablepasture,” LIVING and “the land could notsupport both of them together.” ERV

It is not often that thiscircumstance occurs – when twoparties possess more than can besustained by the same environment.Here, however, is the first example ofsuch as phenomenon.

This is a case where possessionsbecame a hindrance. The livestockowned by Abram and Lot was sosignificant, that the land could notprovide for their feeding.

After spending a rather lengthyperiod of time together, this was not a pleasant experience for Abram and Lot.They had journeyed together from Ur toHaran, from Haran to Canaan, fromCanaan to Egypt, and from Egypt toCanaan. They had extended staystogether in Ur, Haran, Canaan, andEgypt. Their households had becomeaccustomed to one another. Now,however, a circumstance had arisenthat would interrupt this friendship andcloseness.

Behind the ScenesBehind the scenes, however, God

was working out His own purpose, aswell as working all things together forthe good of his chosen. A promise hadbeen delivered to Abram, and now the

time has come for a fulfilling of theinitial stages of that promise. Eventhough Lot had been traveling withAbram, the promise made to Abram, didnot apply to him. It was for Abram andhis seed, and Lot did not fall into thatcategory. This did not mean God hadaltogether rejected Lot, for centurieslater the Spirit would refer to Lot as“that righteous man” (2 Pet 2:8) – adescription that cannot be applied tosomeone God rejects. However, he willnot be in the Messianic lineage, and hisposterity will not be among those towhom the promise of God applied.Therefore, a series of events are set inmotion in order that the promise of Godto Abram might be fulfilled.

The Application to Coming Out ofBabylon

There is a parallel of this occasionwith the necessity of coming out ofBabylon, that great spiritual harlot thatSatan has raised up to compete withthe church. Many us spent considerabletime in that environment, not realizingits true nature. We made friends with

some who were godly, sharing kindredspiritual objectives and desires. Butthere came a time when theenvironment could no longer sustain us.There simply was not enoughnourishment to sustain us and ourassociates. We would leave thegatherings with spiritual hunger pangs,and felt in ourselves a certaindeterioration that we knew was neitherright nor pleasant. Eventually, we hadto separate from the environment. Itwas not because we were an enmity

with our closest friends. It was becauseof a shortage of food. The territoryoccupied by Babylon cannot growenough food for those who are hungryand thirsty for righteousness, and seekfirst the kingdom of God and Hisrighteousness. It is located too low toreceive good supplies of manna for thesoul. The ground is to arid to containthe “wells of salvation” from which thesaints must draw water. There is toomuch spiritual noise to allow for hearingthe personal word, “This is the way,walk ye in it” (Isa 30:21).

I do want to emphasis that the soilof Babylon – the place where it islocated – is the problem. It allows fortoo much of the world and its way ofthinking, which so neutralizes the soilthat the rich things of God simplycannot grow there. Even when a lot ofKingdom seed is sown upon Babylonishsoil, it cannot produce fruit. Beneaththe surface there are the seeds of “thecare of this world, the deceitfulness ofriches, and the lusts of other things”(Mk 4:19). There is also a ledge of

spiritual rock close to the surface thatdoes not allow roots to grow deep(Matt 13:20-21). This condition resultsin a spiritual immaturity that cannotstand under persecution or offensesbecause of the Word.

It is necessary to underscore thatthe above deficiencies are caused byBabylon’s ways. It is a system ofreligion that allows for a merging ofworldly manners with religion, and thatis a poisonous and inhibiting mixture.

I do want to emphasis that the soil ofBabylon – the place where it is located – isthe problem. It allows for too much of theworld and its way of thinking, which soneutralizes the soil that the rich things of Godsimply cannot grow there.



All of these things finally result in adeficiency of food. Lambs, who live offof the milk of others, may survive for awhile. But eventually there will not be

enough food to nourish them. They willbe forced to live in an emaciated state,and, unless they separate, they willfinally die. We see these principles

being lived out in the lives of Abramand Lot. The environment caused strife,and strife brought separation.

STRIFE AMONG THE HERDMEN

“ 7 And there was a strife betweenthe herdmen of Abram's cattle and theherdmen of Lot's cattle: and theCanaanite and the Perizzite dwelledthen in the land.”

While I am sure that Abram and Lotknew of this condition and were notcomfortable with it, there was no strifebetween them. Their care for oneanother did not allow for contentionbetween them. Further, they apparentlysaw that the situation really could notbe remedied by remaining in thatcondition. Perhaps they made someeffort to resolve the situation, but thereis no record of such attempts. If theywould both diminish their possessions,they could probably arrive at a conditionwhere the land could sustain themboth. Apparently this was notacceptable to them.

An Application

It ought to be noted that in matterspertaining to life and godliness, whenthere is not enough spiritual food, thereare some who are quite willing to liveon meager rations for the soul. They

seem to realize that they must consentto not eating enough in order to remainin a Babylonish environment. Theyimagine that they can sustain their livesby small private gardens of truth. Thismethodology will work for a season ifyou are John isolated on the Isle ofPatmos, or Paul in a jail cell. However,spiritual life is not intended to bemaintained by that means. God addspeople to the church, making themmembers of Christ’s body, which is theenvironment that sustains the soul.

STRIFE BETWEEN THE HERDMEN“And there was a strife between

the herdmen of Abram's cattle and theherdmen of Lot's cattle . . .” Otherversions read, “the keepers,” BBE “thosefeeding,” YLT “shepherds,” ERV and “menwho took care of.” GNB

Those charged with caring for theflocks saw there was not enough foodfor the herds of both Abram and Lot,and therefore began to dispute amongthemselves. No doubt they wereattempting to justify having one groupbeing given more food than the otherone. Perhaps they attempted to

negotiate times when one group wouldhave the advantage over the othergroup. At any rate, the “strife” wastheir attempt to resolve the situation,but they could not do so.

Another ApplicationIn the Christian world, most strife

is also among the herdmen –the oneswho are charged with feeding the flockof God. Their disputes do not exactlyparallel those described in our text, butthey are about what is to be given tothe sheep of God’s pasture. Thedisputation also arises because of thescarcity of food in the place where theyare dwelling. That is not the way theyview it, but that is actually the way itis. When religious leaders argue overthe interpretations of texts, or thevalidity of the customs they havechosen to honor, it is largely because ofthe lack of nourishing food. They areoccupying a place that is not conduciveto spiritual nourishment, and that yieldsa great amount of discontent. However,just as with the herdmen of Abram andLot, dissension does not produce food!

THE CANAANITE AND PERIZZITEDWELLED IN THE LAND

“ . . . and the Canaanite and thePerizzite dwelled then in the land.”Other versions read, “The Canaanitesand Perizzites were also living in theland at that time,” NIV “At that time theCanaanites and the Perizzites dwelt inthe land,” RSV “despite the danger theyall faced from the tribes of Canaanitesand Perizzites present in the land,” LIVING

“And the Canaanite and the Perizzitewere dwelling then in the land [makingfodder more difficult to obtain].” AMPLIFIED

when there is not enough spiritual food, thereare some who are quite willing to live onmeager rations for the soul. They seem torealize that they must consent to not eatingenough in order to remain in a Babylonishenvironment.



Some of the lack of food wasowing to the competition that existed inthe obtaining of it. The Canaanites andthe Perizzites were also in that area,and they needed food for their flocksalso.

This is one of two places (Gen13:7; 34:30)where the Canaanites andPerizzites are mentioned together,apparently standing for all of theheathen occupants of Canaan. Theirpresence in Canaan presented severalliabilities.

( They wanted the land forthemselves.

( They were hostile toward thepeople God had chosen.

( They competed for the availablefood.

An ObservationThose involved in disputes among

brethren fail to take into considerationthe enemies of the world that are allabout. The more agitation andunwarranted dispute there is, the closerto the world one has to be, for uselesscontroversy is an expression of the

flesh. “The works of the flesh” includeexpressions that are present in the kindof strife that is to be avoided: “hatred,variance, emulations, wrath, strife,seditions, heresies” (Gal 5:20).

When you get close to the world,there is more competition forsustenance. There is also acorresponding difficulty in identifyingwhat really is required to sustain life.

Where ones religion allows for a lotof disputation, you will find adiminishment of spiritual food. There isan approach to religion that thrives oncontroversy.

However, the alert soul will sensethat certain controversies have a wayopening he door to the spiritualCanaanites and Perizzites that tend toconsume resources, but offer none inreturn.

LET THERE BE N0 STRIFE

“ 8 And Abram said unto Lot, Letthere be no strife, I pray thee, betweenme and thee, and between my herdmenand thy herdmen; for we be brethren.”

We are not told how long thedissension between the herdmencontinued, but I am sure it was not forlong. Even though Abram, owing to thenature of the time in which he lived,knew comparatively little about Godand his ways, he seemed to sense thatthis was something that had to bebrought to an end. He would not allowthis circumstance to drive a wedgebetween him and Lot.

ABRAM SAID TO LOT“And Abram said unto Lot . . .” Abram initiated the conversation.

That does not mean Lot had no concernabout it. It rather indicates that Abramwas more sensitive about the matter. Ifthis is true, it is not because of Abram’snatural makeup or personality. It was

rather owing to his calling by, andexposure to, the Lord God Almighty.

An ObservationThere is something about exposure

to the Lord that causes the heart to bemore tender and supple. This is because“God is light” (1 John 1:5), and thosewho willingly linger in His presence areaffected favorably by it.

If you have been in the Lord for anylength of time, you have no doubtobserved the sensitivity that isawakened by exposure to anenvironment in which the Lord isworking. There are benefits realized thatare not readily available elsewhere.

Right here we see one of thereasons for the backward stance that isfound in many professed Christiancongregations. There is little in theirgatherings that is related to thepresence of the Lord. His Word is not

set forth with clarity, and His ways arenot declared or seen. Meetings areinfrequent, and when they do occur, thepeople are exposed to very littlespiritual substance. The horizon of agodly understanding is not expanded,and the awareness of the will and waysof the Lord are not extended. As aresult, growing up into Christ becomesvirtually impossible.

LET THERE BE NO STRIFE“Let there be no strife, I pray thee,

between me and thee, and between myherdmen and thy herdmen . . .” Otherversions read, “let’s not have anyquarreling,”NIV “no argument,” BBE “nocontention,” DARBY “discord,” NJB

“conflict,” NLT “fighting between . . .riff,” LIVING “battle,” ABP and “arguing.” ERV

This is the first time the Hebrewword translated “strife” (meriybah)isused in Scripture. The second place iswhere Israel strove against Moses,.



Murmuring because there was nowater. The place where this took placewas called “Meribah, because of thechiding of the children of Israel” (Ex17:7). Confirming the seriousness ofsuch contention, that incident isreferred to number of times in Scripture(Num 20:13,24; 27:14; Deut 32:51;33:8; Psa 81:7; 95:8; 105:32; Ezek47:19; 48:28).

Even in those spiritually primitivetimes, Abram knew that “strife” amongbrethren was not proper, and should beavoided if at all possible.

How Much More Now!How much more should there be a

holy revulsion when contentions ariseamong those who are in Christ Jesus.We know very well that such cannot betotally avoided, for, as Paul puts it, “Forthere must be also heresies among you,that they which are approved may be

made manifest among you” (1 Cor11:19). However, the children of theLord have no appetite for such things.

It also ought to be noted thatAbram and Lot were not only related inthe flesh, they were also related by thefaith, and common commitment to theone true God.

WE BE BRETHREN“ . . . for we be brethren.” Other

versions read, “we are brothers,” NASB

“we are kindred,” NRSV “we arekinsmen,” RSV “we are relatives,” CSB

“Close relatives,” LIVING and “family,”MESSAGE

In the world, men say such thingsas ”blood is thicker than water,”referring to the close bond that isrealized by natural relationships.Ordinarily, men will put up with thingswithin their family that they wouldnever forbear in others.

However, Abram’s observationextended beyond the border of kinsmenin the flesh. He observed that theymust not allow contentions among theirherdmen as well, who were notkinsmen to them. Many of them hadbeen acquired while they were awayfrom their native homeland – in Haran,and in Egypt as well (Gen 12:5,16). Heknew that contention in the householddefiles th whole environment, andtherefore he would take measures toeliminate this strife.

Let There Be No DivisionsSolemnly Paul admonishes the

church, “Let there be no divisionsamong you, but that ye be perfectlyjoined together in the same mind and inthe same judgment” (1 Cor 1:10). Thatis the antithesis of having contentionsamong the one another. It does notappear that many take this seriously.

IS NOT THE WHOLE LAND BEFORE THEE

“ 9 Is not the whole land beforethee? separate thyself, I pray thee, fromme: if thou wilt take the left hand, thenI will go to the right; or if thou departto the right hand, then I will go to theleft.”

We will see in Abram that a personof faith can make hard decisions,humble himself, and be content.Additionally, we will gain someunderstanding of how the Lord workswithin the hearts of those to whom Hehas revealed Himself.

IS NOT THE WHOLE LAND BEFORETHEE?

“Is not the whole land beforethee?” Other versions read, “Isn't thewhole land there in front of you?,” CSB

“Isn't all this land yours also,” GWN “Isnot the whole land at your disposal,”NAB “The whole countryside is open toyou,” NLT “There is plenty of land for you

to choose from,” CEV “Look around. Isn'tthere plenty of land out there?” MESSAGE

The complicating factor here is thatthe land had been promised to the seedof Abram. When God “appeared” untoAbram at his arrival at Schecum Hesaid, “Unto thy seed will I give thisland” (Gen 12:7). Was Abrahampresuming when he offered Lot hischoice of the land? Not at all! God hadnot promised Abram the land at this

point. It was not until Lot had separatedfrom him that Abraham was told, “Liftup now thine eyes, and look from the

place where thou art northward, andsouthward, and eastward, andwestward” (Gen 13:14). Some timelater that God said to him, “I am theLORD that brought thee out of Ur of theChaldees, to give thee this land toinherit it” (Gen 15:7).

However, that was not known byAbram at this point. Further, the

Was Abraham presuming when he offeredLot his choice of the land? Not at all! Godhad not promised Abram the land at thispoint.



boundaries of the land given to him andhis seed were not given until the timeGod told Abram He was going to givehim the land (Gen 15:18-21)

Moses received some additionalboundary information after Israel cameout of Egypt (Ex 23:31). Even moredetails were given to Joshua severalcenturies later (Josh 1:4

We should not expect Abram toconduct his life as though all of thesethings were known to him at the timeof our text. Beside all of this, thecontention was not between Abram,and Lot, nor was the strife among theherdmen a sharp contention about the

ownership of the land. The difficultywas there were not enough resourcesthere for Abram and Lot to dwell in thesame part of the land.

The Superb Example of Abram

The Words of MosesCenturies after the events of our

text, God revealed to Moses thenecessity of loving one’s neighbor ashimself. The summation ,of the secondtable of the Law was, “Thou shalt notavenge, nor bear any grudge against thechildren of thy people, but thou shaltlove thy neighbor as thyself: I am theLORD” (Lev 19:18). While these wordswere never spoken to Abram, he livedout the truth them, confirming thatidentity with the Lord results in anawareness that comes from the Lawbeing “written in their hearts” (Rom2:15).

The Words of JesusThere are some things that are

expected of those who are in ChristJesus. The lord has called them to asacrificial life, in which they lose theirlives in order that in order that theymight gain them. Jesus taught, “he thatloseth his life for My sake shall find it” (Matt 10:39). Luke records Jesussaying, “If any man will come after me,let him deny himself, and take up hiscross daily, and follow Me” (Luke9:23). Again, He said, “whosoever shalllose his life shall preserve it” (Luke17:33). And again Jesus said, “He thatloveth his life shall lose it; and he thathateth his life in this world shall keep itunto life eternal” (John 12:25).

While some are wondering just howthis can be done, Abram surfaces,occupying a period of time in whichthere is absolutely no record of suchwords ever being uttered. He lived outthe truth of them just as though heknew them well.

The Words of the ApostlesApostolic doctrine took up where

Jesus left off, expounding the truenature of life in Christ Jesus. Paul wroteto the Corinthians, “Let no man seek hisown, but every man another's wealth”(1 Cor 10:24).He said of his own life,“Even as I please all men in all things,not seeking mine own profit, but theprofit of many, that they may be saved”(1 Cor 10:33). It is said of real love,“seeketh not her own” (1 Cor 13:5).Paul; wrote to the Philippians, “Looknot every man on his own things, but

every man also on the things of others” (Phil 2:4). He wrote to the brethren inRome, “in honor preferring one another”(Rom 12:10). Peter wrote, “Yea, all ofyou be subject one to another, and beclothed with humility: for God resisteththe proud, and giveth grace to thehumble” (1 Pet 5:5).

Do these things seem too difficultfor those claiming identity with the Sonof God? Let them remember Abram,who did them all when all he knew isthat God was going to give the land inwhich he found himself to his seed. Hehad no other commitment from God,and no revelation of the nature of God.Surely he will stand up in the day ofjudgment and witness againstprofessing Christians who never learnedto die to themselves and this world!

SEPARATE THYSELF “ . . . separate thyself, I pray thee,

from me . . .” Other versions read,“Let’s part company,” NIV “let us go ourseparate ways,” BBE “depart from me,”DOUAY “Please separate from me,” NASB

“Go in the opposite direction to me,” NJB

and “be parted.” YLT

This was not a bitter parting, but anecessary one. The word translated“separate” is defined as follows: dr Pparad {paw-rad'} Meaning: 1) to separate, divide1a) (Qal) to divide 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to divide,separate 1b2) to be divided, be separated 1c)(Piel) to be separated 1d) (Pual) to be divided1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to divide, separate 1e2) to makea division, make a separation 1f) (Hithpael) to bedivided, be separated, get separated.”

Some of the versions presentAbram’s words as a kind of agreementto separate from one another: “Let’spart company,” NIV “let us go ourseparate ways.” BBE This, however, isnot a proper assessment of Abram’swords. He was giving Lot the firstchoice, as he will later state. He wasnot calling upon Lot to agree that theyshould separate from one another, butthat he should depart from Abram. In agreat display of humility, he wasdeferring to Lot.

While some are wondering just how this canbe done, Abram surfaces, occupying a periodof time in which there is absolutely no recordof such words ever being uttered. He livedout the truth of them just as though he knewthem well.



“IF” AND “THEN”“ . . . if thou wilt take the left

hand, then I will go to the right; or ifthou depart to the right hand, then Iwill go to the left.”

Placing himself into thebackground, and willing to be contentwith the outcome of Lot’s choice,Abram told Lot to make his choice withthe understanding that Abram wouldtake what is left, and do so with a spiritof contentment, and no regrets. We arebeing exposed to a great man.

THE LOT IS CAST INTO THE LAPThis is what the Scripture refers to

as casting the lot into the lap. It looksas though it is a sort of gamble, butthat is not at all the case. Speaking ofthis manner, Solomon wrote, “The lot iscast into the lap; but the wholedisposing thereof is of the LORD” (Prov16:33). Other versions read, “The lot iscast into the lap, But its every decisionis from the LORD,” NASB “The lot is castinto the lap, but the decision is theLord's alone,” NRSV “A thing may be putto the decision of chance, but it comesabout through the Lord,” BBE “We maythrow the dice, but the LORDdetermines how they fall,” NLT “Into thecenter is the lot cast, And fromJehovah is all its judgment,” YLT and

“The lot is cast into the lap, but thedecision is wholly of the Lord [even theevents that seem accidental are reallyordered by Him].” AMPLIFIED

The casting of lots appears on thesurface to be depending upon chance.Yet, this was the way the sections ofCanaan were divided to Israel (Josh18:10). This is how they populatedJerusalem in the days of Nehemiah,bringing one of every ten families to livein the city (Neh 11:1). It is also themethod the early disciples used toselect one to take Judas’ place, so hisbishopric was not left idol. Incidentally,If Paul was really the replacement forJudas, then his office was left vacantfor a number of years – possibly asmany as ten. This would have violatedthe proscription made through the

Psalmist (Psa 109:8; Acts 1:20).The truth of the matter is that there

are times when we do not knowprecisely what to do. Two or more validalternatives may be before us. It is notalways appropriate simply to remainwhere we are, idle and in questioning.Sometimes we must do as Paul andcompany did when they were spreadingthe Word of God. In some way, theSpirit forbade them to go into Asia. Asthough casting lots, Luke writes, “Afterthey were come to Mysia, they assayedto go into Bithynia: but the Spiritsuffered them not” (Acts 16:7). Theyproceeded to Troas, and there weredirected by God to go to Macedonia(Acts 16:8-10). Living by faith is thecontext in which such direction takesplace. That is the kind of thing that isbeing lived out in this text.

THE PLAIN OF JORDAN

“ 10 And Lot lifted up his eyes, andbeheld all the plain of Jordan, that itwas well watered every where, beforethe LORD destroyed Sodom andGomorrah, even as the garden of theLORD, like the land of Egypt, as thoucomest unto Zoar.”

LOT BEHELD ALL THE PLAIN OFJORDAN

“And Lot lifted up his eyes, andbeheld all the plain of Jordan . . .”Other versions read “the valley ofJordan,” NASB “the Jordan valley,” NRSV

“the country about the Jordan,” DOUAY

“the whole circuit of the Jordan,” YLT

and “the fertile plains of the JordanRiver.” LIVING

Lot looks at the southerly region, beholding all “the plain of Jordan,”otherwise known as the Jordan valley(also mentioned in 1 Kings 7:46 and 2Chronicles 4:17). Jordan is the primaryriver flowing “through a deep valley down thecenter of the country from north to south. Theprincipal river of the entire region.” McCLINTOK &

STRONG’S

WELL WATERED EVERYWHERE, ASTHE GARDEN OF THE LORD“ . . . that it was well watered

every where, before the LORDdestroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, evenas the garden of the LORD, like the landof Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.”

The area Lot chose was conduciveto bearing a lot of produce for his herdsand flocks. It bordered both sides of theJordan river, which provided anabundance of water. It was such a lusharea that it was likened to “the garden

The truth of the matter is that there aretimes when we do not know precisely what todo. Two or more valid alternatives may bebefore us. It is not always appropriate simplyto remain where we are, idle and inquestioning.



of the Lord” in Eden, and the richportion of Egypt that reached into thesouthern portion of Canaan. Both Edenand Egypt were watered by rivers ofconsiderable size.

It ought to be noted that Lot is notsaid to have chosen the area because ofits cities – particularly Sodom andGomorrah – but rather for its naturalresources.

Mention is made of the fact thatthis was “before the Lord destroyedSodom and Gomorrah.” – a judgmentthat is frequently mentioned in Scripture(Gen 19:24-25; Deut 28:23; 32:32; Isa19-10; 13:19; Jer 23:14; 49:18;

50:40; Amos 4:11; Zeph 2:9; Matt10:15; 11:23-24; Mk 6:11; Lk 10:12;17:29; 2 Pet 2:6; Jude 1:7).

The “Dead Sea,” which is a saltsea fills up the area once occupied bySodom, Gomorrah, and “the cities ofthe plain” (Gen 13:12; 119:29) – i.e.“the plain of Jordan.”

And here, before these wickedcities become a focus of Divineattention and judgment, they arementioned. Once noted for occupying afertile region, rich with resources, theybecame known for their profligacy andlicentiousness. In them we see anexample of the true condition of those

who prosper in this world – a conditionrevealed to Asaph the singer: “Surelythou didst set them in slippery places:thou castedst them down intodestruction. How are they brought intodesolation, as in a moment! they areutterly consumed with terrors. As adream when one awaketh; so, O Lord,when thou awakest, thou shalt despisetheir image” (Psa 73:18-20).

This brief mention of Sodom andGomorrah confirms that the Scripturesare written with the purpose of God inmind. That is why references like thisare found throughout them. God’spurpose is seen throughout Scripture.

LOT CHOSE ALL THE PLAIN OF JORDAN

“ 11 Then Lot chose him all the plainof Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: andthey separated themselves the one fromthe other.”

As we consider this choice, wemust keep in mind the fact thatalthough man made an alternativechoice, “every decision is of the Lord”NKJV (Prov 16:33). While this may bedifficult for some to comprehend, theWord of God must be embraced,knowing that Divine decisions arealways righteous, and in strictcomportment with His purposes. It maynot appear to be so clear on thesurface, but as time marches forward,we will see that God was preparing acircumstance in which He would beglorified. Eventually the choice of Lotwill provide several helpful examples.

( An example of the impact ofungodly manners upon a righteousman (2 Pet 2:8).

( An example of deliverance fromtemptation (2 Poet 2:8-9).

( The example of Lot’s wife (Lk

17:32).( The impact of a godly man on an

ungodly populous (Gen 19:9).

( A type of the end of the world (Lk17:28).

I suppose some might reason thatthese things just happened, and laterGod took them and made examples ofthem. Such views do not take intoaccount the government of God (Psa22:28), the pervading will of God (),Dan 4:35), that all things are of God(Rom 11:30; 1 Cor 8:6; 2 Cor 5:18),and that everything is moving towardan appointed conclusion, or “the end”(1 Cor 1:8; 15:24; Heb 3:6,14; 6:11; 1Pet 1:13; 4:7; Rev 2:26).

LOT CHOSE“Then Lot chose him all the plain of

Jordan; and Lot journeyed east . . .”

In a sense, this was an act of faith.Remember, the Canaanite and Perizziteswere in the land. There were cities, andkings present in the land. Yet Lot chosethe land just as though it had noloccupants. He wad thinking of his herds

and flocks – and that was a nobleconsideration.

Lot journeyed in an easterlydirection. Technically, it was in a south-easterly direction. However, if youconsider where he would conclude hisjourney, it would be east of where hebegan between Bethel and Ai.

A Point to Be MadeIt is important to observe that

where we end up is the main thing. It ispossible to wander about like Israel forforty years, and get nowhere. Or, it ispossible to take a journey to a specificlocation, and make it there safely – likeAbram traveling from Ur to Haran, fromHaran to Shecum, from Shecum toBethel, from Bethel to Egypt, and fromEgypt back to Canaan. The successfuljourney to a place appointed by God isa testimony of Divine direction and thefaithfulness of His people.

THEY SEPARATED THEMSELVES“ . . . and they separated

themselves the one from the other.”

Thus, after a rather lengthy tenuretogether, Abram and Lot are formally



separated, each going their separateways, yet with no hostility betweenthem. They spent several years together

without experiencing any friction amongthemselves. They are a good example

for all men in the matter of spendingtime together.

ABRAM AND LOT DWELL WHERE THEY PREFERRED

“ 12 Abram dwelled in the land ofCanaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities ofthe plain, and pitched his tent towardSodom.”

Both Abram and Lot settled inwhere they desired. Lot was given thefirst choice, and Abram adapted hischoice to it.

ABRAM DWELT IN CANAAN“Abram dwelled in the land of

Canaan . . .”

Canaan was the land to which Godhad called Abram. When God firstcalled Abram He said, “Get thee out ofthy country, and from thy kindred, andfrom thy father's house, unto a landthat I will show thee” (Gen 12:1). Atthat point He did not identify the land.

When the Lord later “appeared untoAbram,” after he had arrived in Canaan,He promised, “Unto thy seed will I givethis land” (Gen 12:7). This could havebeen about fifteen years from Abram’scalling. At that point He said nothingabout Abram himself inheriting the land.It is not until some time later that Godsaid to Abram, “I am the LORD thatbrought thee out of Ur of the Chaldees,to give thee this land to inherit it” (Gen15:7). In the same day, God reaffirmedthat the land would be given toAbram’s seed: “Unto thy seed have Igiven this land, from the river of Egyptunto the great river, the riverEuphrates” (Gen 15:18). This iscalculated to have been about nineyears from the initial promise that theland would be given to Abram’s seed.What does all of this mean?

It means that God was directingthis whole affair, not Abram, andcertainly not Lot. They both madedecisions, for the lot was cast into theirlap. However, the Lord worked in andthrough them to bring them to whereHe wanted them. This episode with thecontentious herdmen was HOW Godworked things together for the good ofAbram. It is how he brought him tooccupy the very territory he was goingto give him. You might say, it “was notof works, lest any man should boast.”

The ApplicationThe application ought to be

abundantly clear. “The steps of a goodman are ordered by the LORD: and hedelighteth in his way” (Psa 37:23).

Jeremiah also saw this truth: “O LORD,I know that the way of man is not inhimself: it is not in man that walketh todirect his steps” (Jer 10:23). Thecomplexity of this is reflected in aSolomonic observation: “A man's heartdeviseth his way: but the LORDdirecteth his steps” (Prov 16:9). TheAmplified Bible reads, “A man’s mindplans his way, but the Lord directs hissteps and makes them sure.”

Particularly in Abram’s case, thisshould not be difficult to see – at leastnot when you perceive what the Lordwas doing. Ultimately, the call anddirection of Abraham had to do withthe entrance of the Lord’s Christ intothe world. His entrance would comethrough a certain nation (Isa 9:6; Rom9:5). It would be through a particularperson (Isa 7:14; Matt 1:23), in aparticular town (Mic 5:2; John 7:42),and at a particular time (Gal 4:4).

Will any person dare to say that aprocedure like that would be placedwholly into the hands of men? Doessuch specific language suggest thatGod simply saw what men were goingto do? Or, did He work in men, as theWord of God everywhere attests?

LOT DWELT IN THE CITIES OF THEPLAIN

“ . . . and Lot dwelled in the citiesof the plain, and pitched his tent towardSodom.”

Why didn’t Lot choose the northernpart of the land, or the place whereJerusalem and Bethlehem were located,leaving the Jordan Valley near Sodomfor Abram? The answer should beobvious to all. God was in this matter!



Our next Hungry Saints Meeting will be held on Friday, 11/18/11. We will continue our series oflessons on the book of Genesis. The twenty-second lesson will cover chapter 13:13 through verse17of chapter Fourteen: “SODOM’S STANDING BEFORE THE LORD.” Here was a city whose citizens had acertain ranking in heaven: “wicked and sinners before the Lord exceedingly.” After Lot was separatedfrom Abram, the Lord renewed His covenant with him. As time progresses, Lot is captured by heathenkings. Hearing of it, Abram took his servants and, in an orderly and strategic manner, delivered Lot,bringing back all of the people who were taken, and all of their possessions. Our meeting will beginat 7:00 P.M. You are invited to bring your family and friends for fellowship around the Word of God.Refreshments are served afterward, with a time of extended fellowship for everyone.

Some have chosen to speakderisively of Lot, declaring that heprefer red Sodom, and was

fundamentally a worldly man. However,that is not what God said about Lot. Itis not how Abraham regarded him

either. He was not ashamed to beidentified with Lot.

CONCLUSION

Commencing with the twelfthchapter of Genesis, the particulars ofthe development of God’s salvationalpurpose begin. This is HOW Godprepared to bring His Son into theworld. The working with Abraham isthe commencement of a focused planthat will eventuate in the bruising of

Satan, the plundering of higher despoticpowers, and the ending of the Law forrighteousness. We are being exposed tothe beginnings of something that willbring an end to the reign of sin, bring ineverlasting righteousness, and producethe creation of a “new man” who willbe harmonious with God Himself. A

means will be introduced by which mencan come to God, be changed fromglory to glory, and at last reign withChrist. That is what this is really about,and it is also why God Himself ismanaging things to the finest detail,making things work toward thefulfillment of His own eternal purpose.


Documents

A MINISTRY FOR HUNGRY SAINTS - Word Of Truthwotruth.com/COMMENTARIES-NEW/Genesis/Genesis-21a.pdf · 2017. 5. 27. · (Genesis 13:1-12) Having left Egypt as a very wealthy man, Abram