In response to the questions posted last week; let’s take a look at the comments made regarding Chapter 14 and I will address the questions as I explain the content.
The beginnings of this chapter can be difficult to understand, but here’s what I have read and have summarized. There are kings that have been conquered by a king in Persia, Chedorlaomer. He actually is the King of Elam. After thirteen years, these five captive kings revolted. Chedorlaomer rallied for support and succeeded in bringing three kings from Babylon to aid him in battle. This battle took place in the Valley of Siddim and among the spoils taken was Abram’s nephew, Lot. The battle between the kings is significant because from this story three important lessons are gleaned. Those lessons are highlighted within this text.
Let’s stop for a moment and review. Last we read about Lot he was headed for the Jordan Valley close to, but not in Sodom. In verse 12 of this chapter it reads, “They took Lot, Abram’s nephew who was living IN Sodom, and everything he owned.” What? After all the lessons and talks that have transpired between Abram and his nephew, Lot is now IN Sodom? I’m immediately reminded of the frog in the pot of hot water. A frog can be in a pot of water and if it heats gradually the frog doesn’t realize he’s in danger until he’s dead. Gradual desensitivity to sin is most dangerous. I’m reminded of language in films today. Remember when Rhett Butler in Gone With the Wind said one swear word at the end of the movie and sent ripples of shock throughout the cinemas? In today’s society there are so many swear words and vulgar language I shudder to think how desensitized we have become. Lesson taught; de-sensitivity to sin is very dangerous!
Lot was the example of an individual who has become desensitized to the sin that surrounded him. Maybe he began dating a girl from Sodom or hung out with guys from Sodom at the bowling alley….who knows how it happened, but it did. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Lot is now taken captive. Fortunately, someone escaped and ran to Abram with the news. Can you imagine someone knocking on your door and telling you the story of how your son or nephew has been kidnapped?
Abram doesn’t hesitate. He employs his 318 trained men in his household to go with him and by the sword, Abram and company bring Lot and all he owned back to Hebron. According to verse 16, Abram was successful in his goal and on the return trip the King of Sodom came out to meet him. I guess every successful man is approached by those who want to be your friend and in your good graces, right? Lesson taught; when a victory is won against sin, Satan will strike on the heels of that victory!
Sodom is full of sin and idol worship. So we can assume that includes their king. As soon as this wicked king came out to meet with Abram, Melchizedek, king of Salem appears.
(Who is Melchizedek?)
After reading in my commentary about Melchizedek, here’s my conclusions. When sin comes out to meet us head on, our Lord God goes before us to strengthen us and protect us. Melchizedek means king of righteousness and Salem means peace. Neat, huh? Melchizedek is a symbol for Christ, our Great High Priest. In Hebrews 7, we find, “This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him, and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. First, his name means “king of righteousness” then also, “king of Salem” means “king of peace.” Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning or days or end of life, like the Son of God he remains a priest forever.”
The part of the above scripture which speaks about “without a mother or father” is in connection with the Lord’s priesthood. Because priests inherited their positions and served in that capacity for a limited time, the priesthood of Melchizedek was unique since it wasn’t passed on from his parents and it had no beginning or an end. Simply stated, Melchizedek was the Lord.
In verses 18-20, Melchizedek came to Abram to bless him and bring nourishment in the form of bread and wine. Amazing, isn’t it? Lesson taught; when confronted by evil the Lord steps in to strengthen and encourage his chosen ones. After receiving the blessing and food, Abram gives Melchizedek a tenth of everything. Another neat lesson…when we suddenly find ourselves with bounty, give the Lord a tenth!
The King of Sodom now presents a plan to Abram. He wants the people Abram has taken in the rescue of Lot and he defers the “stuff” to Abram. But Abram refuses to make a deal with evil. After receiving a visit from the Lord to serve as a reminder to stay on the right track, Abram follows after His Lord.
Father, please keep us from making bad decisions and surrounding ourselves with bad influences. Remind us daily of how our lives can easily become enslaved to sin and desensitized to the things of Christ. May we be faithful followers, alert and always listening to hear your voice. Keep our homes and hearts far from the places of evil intentions that seek to ruin our testimony. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Next week’s assignment: As you read Chapter 15, please take note of the following questions as you study:
1. The covenant with Abram is again mentioned. What comparison to the numerous descendents does God make this time?
2. Abram is having a problem believing the covenant promise. Why is this promise so hard for Abram to believe?
3. What significance is the animal sacrifice to the promise made by God to Abram?
4. A prediction is made concerning Abram’s descendents. What is being prophesized in this chapter?
Father, thank you for the opportunity of once again learning more about scripture as we study in depth the life of Abram. May we continually realize our sinful nature and your bgracious mercy as you continue to wash us white as snow.
NOTE: My sweet husband has decided that we need a Sounding Board Teaching Ministries' retreat. Let me know what you think!
The beginnings of this chapter can be difficult to understand, but here’s what I have read and have summarized. There are kings that have been conquered by a king in Persia, Chedorlaomer. He actually is the King of Elam. After thirteen years, these five captive kings revolted. Chedorlaomer rallied for support and succeeded in bringing three kings from Babylon to aid him in battle. This battle took place in the Valley of Siddim and among the spoils taken was Abram’s nephew, Lot. The battle between the kings is significant because from this story three important lessons are gleaned. Those lessons are highlighted within this text.
Let’s stop for a moment and review. Last we read about Lot he was headed for the Jordan Valley close to, but not in Sodom. In verse 12 of this chapter it reads, “They took Lot, Abram’s nephew who was living IN Sodom, and everything he owned.” What? After all the lessons and talks that have transpired between Abram and his nephew, Lot is now IN Sodom? I’m immediately reminded of the frog in the pot of hot water. A frog can be in a pot of water and if it heats gradually the frog doesn’t realize he’s in danger until he’s dead. Gradual desensitivity to sin is most dangerous. I’m reminded of language in films today. Remember when Rhett Butler in Gone With the Wind said one swear word at the end of the movie and sent ripples of shock throughout the cinemas? In today’s society there are so many swear words and vulgar language I shudder to think how desensitized we have become. Lesson taught; de-sensitivity to sin is very dangerous!
Lot was the example of an individual who has become desensitized to the sin that surrounded him. Maybe he began dating a girl from Sodom or hung out with guys from Sodom at the bowling alley….who knows how it happened, but it did. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Lot is now taken captive. Fortunately, someone escaped and ran to Abram with the news. Can you imagine someone knocking on your door and telling you the story of how your son or nephew has been kidnapped?
Abram doesn’t hesitate. He employs his 318 trained men in his household to go with him and by the sword, Abram and company bring Lot and all he owned back to Hebron. According to verse 16, Abram was successful in his goal and on the return trip the King of Sodom came out to meet him. I guess every successful man is approached by those who want to be your friend and in your good graces, right? Lesson taught; when a victory is won against sin, Satan will strike on the heels of that victory!
Sodom is full of sin and idol worship. So we can assume that includes their king. As soon as this wicked king came out to meet with Abram, Melchizedek, king of Salem appears.
(Who is Melchizedek?)
After reading in my commentary about Melchizedek, here’s my conclusions. When sin comes out to meet us head on, our Lord God goes before us to strengthen us and protect us. Melchizedek means king of righteousness and Salem means peace. Neat, huh? Melchizedek is a symbol for Christ, our Great High Priest. In Hebrews 7, we find, “This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him, and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. First, his name means “king of righteousness” then also, “king of Salem” means “king of peace.” Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning or days or end of life, like the Son of God he remains a priest forever.”
The part of the above scripture which speaks about “without a mother or father” is in connection with the Lord’s priesthood. Because priests inherited their positions and served in that capacity for a limited time, the priesthood of Melchizedek was unique since it wasn’t passed on from his parents and it had no beginning or an end. Simply stated, Melchizedek was the Lord.
In verses 18-20, Melchizedek came to Abram to bless him and bring nourishment in the form of bread and wine. Amazing, isn’t it? Lesson taught; when confronted by evil the Lord steps in to strengthen and encourage his chosen ones. After receiving the blessing and food, Abram gives Melchizedek a tenth of everything. Another neat lesson…when we suddenly find ourselves with bounty, give the Lord a tenth!
The King of Sodom now presents a plan to Abram. He wants the people Abram has taken in the rescue of Lot and he defers the “stuff” to Abram. But Abram refuses to make a deal with evil. After receiving a visit from the Lord to serve as a reminder to stay on the right track, Abram follows after His Lord.
Father, please keep us from making bad decisions and surrounding ourselves with bad influences. Remind us daily of how our lives can easily become enslaved to sin and desensitized to the things of Christ. May we be faithful followers, alert and always listening to hear your voice. Keep our homes and hearts far from the places of evil intentions that seek to ruin our testimony. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Next week’s assignment: As you read Chapter 15, please take note of the following questions as you study:
1. The covenant with Abram is again mentioned. What comparison to the numerous descendents does God make this time?
2. Abram is having a problem believing the covenant promise. Why is this promise so hard for Abram to believe?
3. What significance is the animal sacrifice to the promise made by God to Abram?
4. A prediction is made concerning Abram’s descendents. What is being prophesized in this chapter?
Father, thank you for the opportunity of once again learning more about scripture as we study in depth the life of Abram. May we continually realize our sinful nature and your bgracious mercy as you continue to wash us white as snow.
NOTE: My sweet husband has decided that we need a Sounding Board Teaching Ministries' retreat. Let me know what you think!
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