And in You All the Families of the Earth Shall Be Blessed

Text: Genesis 12
6 May 2018

INTRODUCTION

1. The Doctrine of “Blessings from God”

a) Often misunderstood
b) Often misapplied

2. The Focus of this new series of Pulpit Messages

a) Deeper comprehension of the Doctrine of Blessing
b) Deeper appreciation of the Blessings of God
c) Tracing the Doctrine of blessing to the Abrahamic Covenant

THE PROMISES OF GOD OUTLINED

1. These promises were made to Abram

2. The Promises listed

a) Promise of a great nation
I will make you a great nation   (Genesis 12:2a)
b) Promise of a great name
I will bless you and make your name great   (Genesis 12:2b)
c) Promise of being a blessing
And you shall be a blessing   (Genesis 12:2c)
d) Promise of Protection
i) I will bless those who bless you   (Genesis 12:3a)
ii) And I will curse him who curses you   (Genesis 12:3b)
e) Promise of Blessing upon all families
And in you all the families of the earth
Shall be blessed   (Genesis 12:3c)

ON WHAT BASIS WOULD GOD BLESS ABRAM (ABRAHAM)?

1. Nothing was said about Abraham

2. He did nothing of note to receive such promises of blessings

PROFOUND MYSTERY OF THE PERSON OF GOD

1. Based on God’s sovereignty

Doctrine of Election
According to election   (Romans 9:11)

2. Based on God’s mercy

Doctrine of Mercy
I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy   (Romans 9:14)

3. Based on how God wishes to reveal the riches of His glory   (Romans 9:23)