Abraham's faith journey (testing) #13

 September 24, 2020 (Thursday)

     Our study of Abraham’s faith journey takes a dark twist. This is one of those stories that does not make sense on many levels. It starts with these ominous words, “After these events, God tested Abraham…” [Genesis 22:1a CEB] These words are kind of like the dramatic movie music. The intention is to cue the emotions and the mind to pay attention.

     If God is “Almighty” and knows everything, why does God have to test Abraham. Then again, why did God ask Adam where he was hiding in the garden? There are two plausible explanations. The traditional one insists the test was for Abraham’s benefit. The odd one suggests God is giving Abraham a genuine test. A test where Abraham determines the outcome.

     What was this test and why is it disturbing? I am so glad you asked! “God said, “Take your son, your only son whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah. Offer him up as an entirely burned offering there on one of the mountains that I will show you.” [Genesis 22:2 CEB] I want to stop here to make three observations.

     Fist, Isaac was not Abraham’s “only” son. We know of at least one other son, Ishmael. This is a story with a subtext. While we are reading this story, we understand it is not really about Abraham and Isaac. Second, God asked Abraham to offer his son up as an “entirely burned offering.” This was not a symbolic action. God insisted that Abraham sacrifice what he loved most. Finally, mount Moriah sat just outside ancient Jerusalem. Cue dramatic music.

     The lessons are in the details. Notice, “Abraham got up early in the morning…” [Genesis 22:3a CEB] Abraham submitted to God’s request. There is no mention of hesitation or questions. Faith creates obedience.

     Second detail, “On the third day, Abraham looked up and saw the place at a distance.” [Genesis 22:4 CEB] Get it, three days? This is the first time exact travel time has been listed in Abraham’s story. I believe the three days are significant for a reason. Cue more dramatic music.

     Genesis credits Isaac, who was probably around 25 years old, with questioning, “Here is the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the entirely burned offering?” [Genesis 22:7c CEB] Abraham’s answer is one of the most difficult ones to trust. Abraham insisted that God will provide a lamb.

     Only God did NOT provide a lamb as a substitute at this point in history. I believe Abraham was prophetic. Yet, God did provide. Abraham organized the wood, tied up his son, and picked up the knife to sacrifice his son. The way this is told, I'm guessing this was all done with slow, painstaking attention to detail. Wouldn't you procrastinate if you were sure God had something else in mind?

     God stopped Abraham. “The messenger said, “Don’t stretch out your hand against the young man, and don’t do anything to him. I now know that you revere God and didn’t hold back your son, your only son, from me.” [Genesis 22:12 CEB] This messenger is described by other translations as “the angel of the LORD.” (Jesus)

     Abraham looks up and sees a RAM caught by the horns. He sacrifices the ram instead of his son. Wait, didn’t Abraham expect a LAMB? (Different animal). Abraham was not wrong about the lamb. I’ll explain next time.

     One more detail, I’m guessing you’ve missed it every time you’ve read the story. Unless someone spoils the story for you. (Like I’m about to do.) Pay careful attention, “After Abraham returned to the young men…” [Genesis 22:19a CEB] What’s missing? Actually the question is WHO is missing?

     Stay tuned for the examination!