Summary: In the promises to Abram we see God’s grace. In Abram’s response we see how we should respond to grace.

Genesis 11:10-12:9

March 9, 2003

NIV Jeremiah 23:23 "Am I only a God nearby," declares the LORD, "and not a God far away?

What does that mean.

Far God - transcendent - creator - not interested in the little things

Near God - personal - can make a difference in the day to day of life

Genesis 1-11 Far God

But now as God moves in to deal specifically with Israel He demonstrates that he is also a God who is near.

The move from the broad to the narrow 11:10-32

Line of Shem

read verses 27-32

God reveals himself as the God of grace 12:1-3

Three couplets

- great nation and I will bless you

- great name and you will be a blessing

- bless and curse and all people will be blessed by you

The proper response to the grace of God 12:4-9

a. Obedience motivated by faith 12:4-5

b. Worship motivated by gratitude 12:6-8

KJV Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.