Sacrifice

Posted by Karah

Pause

Listen to the song “O the Blood” by Gateway Worship (God Be Praised Deluxe, 2010). Worship the Savior for His sacrifice on the cross.

Have you ever had to wait a long time for something you desperately wanted? How did you react when you finally got it? What emotions did you feel? Journal a few thoughts.

Now, imagine how you would feel if you were suddenly asked to throw away this treasured possession. That’s where we find Abraham today. He had waited 25 years for the son God had promised, and now God was asking Abraham to offer Isaac as a burnt offering.

“Take your son,” He said, “your only son Isaac, whom you love, go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.”

—Genesis 22:2

Read Genesis 22:1-3 in your Bible and consider these questions:

The sacrifice God called Abraham to give was great and came at a great cost. When have you seen someone give up something at a great cost to follow God? Jot down a few thoughts.

What is the biggest step of faith you have ever taken? Explain.

Now, read John 3:16 in your Bible.

In what ways is this verse similar to the story of Abraham and Isaac? Explain.

What does this verse teach you about redemption?

The Point

Redemption requires a sacrifice.

Respond

Isaac’s sacrifice was a test of faith for Abraham, but Jesus’ sacrifice is a means of faith for us. Without a sacrifice we cannot be saved, and Jesus became the perfect sacrifice so we could be redeemed.

Take a moment to praise God for the cross and the blood of Christ that covered your sin.

If you aren’t a Christian, know that Jesus laid down His life so that you could be redeemed from sin.

For further study, read “The Present” in The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd Jones.

Behind the Story

Interestingly, Isaac was described in these verses as Abraham’s only son. Even though Abraham was also the father of Ishmael, through Hagar, Isaac was God’s promised child and the bloodline that God would use to establish His people and His covenant. The word used to describe Isaac as Abraham’s only son is similar to the word used in John 3:16, which identifies Jesus as God’s only Son. This word doesn’t necessarily focus on birth order, but rather highlights the special nature of the birth.

Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Weekly Devotions