This chapter continues Abram’s story, telling of how he and Lot split up. Today I’d like for us to follow Abrams story and see how God reinforces His promises to Abram.
Read Genesis 13 (Today we will be looking at Abram’s actions, but I want us to also keep in mind that this story is meant to reveal God and His character, not simply provide a human model of action).
According to v2 and v5, what was Abram’s and Lot’s financial situation?
What was the cause of strife between Abram and Lot?
Why did their strife bother Abram?
Abram told Lot to choose the land he wanted and go there.
Do you think Abram’s proposal to solve the problem was radical?
Do you think that Abram’s solution was influenced by what happened in v4?
What causes strife in our families today?
Possible answers: Financial problems, self-centered behavior, external forces.
Lot was Abram’s nephew, but he refers to him as “Brother”. Hebrew word is ach (phonetic awkh)
A primitive word; a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance. Also translated as kinsman (27 times) or relative (80 times).
Let me suggest that we, in the church family, can run into strife (surprise?).
Here are a few NT ideas on how to deal with strife among family or brothers in Christ:
Matthew 18:15-17 15"If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother. 16"But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED. 17"If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
Galations 6:1-3 1Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. 2Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. 3For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
Let’s get back to Lot. Lot chose the best looking land based on the fertile ground and fitness for his own personal wealth. We can see what a bad choice this was in hindsight, but given prosperity or struggle, what would you choose?
What are some Biblical principles for making the best choices?
Does the Bible specifically forbid it?
Does the Bible specifically give guidance?
Deuteronomy 30:15-20 – God – to Israel. Choose Obedience!
V14-18: God confirms his promise of the land and Abram’s descendants.
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