Covenant & Faith – Genesis 15:1-6

Genesis 15 figures prominently & dramatically in the record of unfolding covenant revelation. Three major elements are revealed over the course of Abram's life. In Gen 12 covenant promises involving salvation's history in the categories of seed, land, and nations are specified/disclosed. In Gen 15 the covenant is ratified by ceremony in the 2nd portion of the chapter. In Gen 17 the covenant sign will be established to accompany the succession of the Abrahamic promises through the generations. In all aspects of covenant arrangement, the word of God Himself proves absolutely central. The Lord assumes the role of the suzerain or the greater king while Abraham and his lineage are the vassal/servants. As the sovereign party, Yahweh dictates the terms and sets the parameters for his relationship with Abram and his family line. It is important to recognize with each chapter of covenant progress Abram is the recipient. He ultimately is the passive beneficiary. It is not the genius, ambition, works, or renown of Abram that is establishing this future hope not even in part. Abram is a man of faith. In each stage of God's interaction with him, he demonstrates righteousness in believing God's Word. Paul would later speak of faith itself as a gift of God and as such, Abram's boasting was only in the Lord. May we join his confession of faith and his heart of worship upon recognizing the majesty and condescension of our God evident in this chapter of redemptive history...