Genesis 22:1—14

 2  Peter 1:1 tells us that faith is precious.  Reading through the great Hall of Faith, Hebrews 11, we see what faith has done.  Yet the trial of faith is more precious than gold, 1 Peter 1:7.  In this regard, let’s notice— 

The sacrifice of faith.  “Take your son, your only son, Isaac.” (verse2).  This phrase means that Isaac was Abraham’s “all in all.”  In service to God, we must give God our all, Matthew 19:21; Romans 12:1,2 ; 15:3. 

The obedience of faith.   “He set out for the place God had told him about.”  (verse 3).  By faith, Abraham obeyed (Heb. 11:7).  Faith does not stop to ask questions, faith doesn’t always reason.  Faith obeys the Word of the Lord, John 2:5.

The expectation of faith.  “We will come back to you.”  (verse 5).  Abraham believed that God would raise his son up, Heb. 11:9.  God’s promise could not fail, Gen. 21:12. 

The work of faith.  “Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife.”  (verse 6).  The work of faith is often difficult, sometimes solemn, sometimes confusing.  Christ’s work of faith was all of that:  “He bore our sins in His own body on the tree.” (1 Peter 2:24). 

The assurance of faith.  “God himself will provide.”  (verse 8).  On the path of obedience many a question will arise (verse 7) which only faith can answer (Acts 27:25).

The persistence of faith.  “He bound his son.”  (verse 9).  The faith that fails in the hour of trial is no faith at all (Mark 4:40).

The victory of faith.  “Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son.  Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide.”  (verses 12, 13).  Abraham was willing to give his son, but the Lord provided a way of escape for the boy, and an offering was made and Abraham’s faith was rewarded (Rom. 9:33; Mark 9:25; 1 John 5:4).