Scripture Union Daily Guide 17th December 2020
TOPIC: The Two Covenants
Opening Prayer: Open my eyes O Lord that I might behold wondrous things from your word in Jesus name.
Reflection
• What is God revealing to me in this passage?
• Is there any other Biblical passage that can help me understand this passage better?
Two sons: Abraham had two sons. The two were different is many ways. Ishmael, the first was born naturally but Isaac, supernaturally. Remember that Sarah was barren and was no longer having her monthly period. Isaac’s birth was not by human effort but resulting from God’s special intervention in fulfilment of his promise. Notice the other key difference in v.22. Two covenants: The Mosaic covenant was based on the law which depends on human effort, “You shall?, You shall not ?” The new (Christian) covenant, however, is based on God’s promise, “I will ?” (Compare Genesis 12:2–3). It is based on grace and gives freedom. Two Jerusalem: There is the natural or physical Jerusalem in Israel and the spiritual, supernatural or heavenly Jerusalem. We Christians, the spiritual descendants of Abraham belong to the true, heavenly Jerusalem. Two consequences: The inheritance does not belong to the natural child. The children of promise have the full and true inheritance (v.30 cf. Genesis 17:17–21). We Christians, the supernatural descendants of Abraham, are the heirs of God’s promise.
⁂ Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Practice/Word Application
• To ponder upon: Do you still want to be under the law?
Hymn – Stand up, stand up for Jesus
1. Stand up, stand up for Jesus,
Ye soldiers of the cross;
Lift high His royal banner,
It must not suffer loss.
From victory unto victory
His army shall He lead,
Till every foe is vanquished,
And Christ is Lord indeed.
2. Stand up, stand up for Jesus,
Stand in His strength alone;
The arm of flesh will fail you,
Ye dare not trust your own.
Put on the Gospel armor,
Each piece put on with prayer;
Where duty calls or danger,
Be never wanting there.
Prayer Points
• Thank God for the blessings that are yours in Christ Jesus.
• Pray for Christians who are being persecuted as a result of their faith to have courage and perseverance. Pray for God’s speedy intervention and help.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Colossians 2:15
Read the Bible in one Year
Josh. 22–24; Luke 18:24–43
Scripture Union Daily Guide 17th December 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.