Genesis 17:15–22
The Bible4Jesus.com Podcast
About this episode
We want a god, if we want one at all, who is a celestial butler, a divine affirmer, one who exists to bless our pre-approved agendas. But the God of Abraham is not that kind of god. He is not a cosmic vending machine, and He does not rubber-stamp the schemes of men, even the schemes of His chosen friends. The God of Scripture is the sovereign Lord of all creation, and His purposes are not subject to our review or approval. This is a truth that our generation finds offensive, but it is the only truth that can save us. God's sovereign prerogative is not a threat to our freedom; it is the very foundation of it. In our text today, we come to a pivotal moment in the life of Abraham. God has just renewed His covenant, changed Abram's name to Abraham, and instituted the sign of circumcision.