Today’s Bulletin
OUTLINE
I. God Is With His People (v.22-24)
II. Well Drama & Mutual Resolutions (v.25--32)
III. Responding In Worship (v.33-34)
Genesis 21:22-34
“At that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army said to Abraham, “God is with you in all that you do. 23 Now therefore swear to me here by God that you will not deal falsely with me or with my descendants or with my posterity, but as I have dealt kindly with you, so you will deal with me and with the land where you have sojourned.” 24 And Abraham said, “I will swear.”
25 When Abraham reproved Abimelech about a well of water that Abimelech’s servants had seized, 26 Abimelech said, “I do not know who has done this thing; you did not tell me, and I have not heard of it until today.” 27 So Abraham took sheep and oxen and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a covenant. 28 Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock apart. 29 And Abimelech said to Abraham, “What is the meaning of these seven ewe lambs that you have set apart?” 30 He said, “These seven ewe lambs you will take from my hand, that this may be a witness for me that I dug this well.” 31 Therefore that place was called Beersheba, because there both of them swore an oath. 32 So they made a covenant at Beersheba. Then Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army rose up and returned to the land of the Philistines. 33 Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba and called there on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God. 34 And Abraham sojourned many days in the land of the Philistines.”
Tamarisk Tree
Sermon Discussion questions
Well Well Well: Genesis 21:22-34
Ice Breaker: If you could make a promise to yourself and absolutely keep it, what would it be?
This Week Specific
Reflecting God’s Presence: Just as Abimelech noticed God’s blessing on Abraham, what might it look like for others to see God at work in your life? How could you display integrity, patience, or kindness in your family, work, or school settings that would reflect God's presence in you?
Faith in Waiting: Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for God’s promise to be fulfilled. In your personal life, where do you feel challenged to wait on God’s timing? How can you support each other in trusting God during long or difficult waiting periods?
Peacemaking in Conflict: Abraham approaches the conflict over the well with peace rather than aggression. When faced with conflict, whether at work, home, or school, how can you pursue peace and humility as Abraham did? What practical steps could you take to resolve conflicts in a Christ-like way?
Responding in Worship: After making peace and receiving God’s provision, Abraham worships by calling on God’s name. In your day-to-day life, how can you intentionally pause to worship or express gratitude to God, especially after experiencing His provision or guidance?
Living in the World but Not of It: Abraham made a covenant with a local ruler but kept his primary allegiance to God. In what ways can you live faithfully in your community, job, or nation without compromising your allegiance to God? How does this apply to navigating cultural or societal pressures?
Weekly Questions
What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?
What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?
How can this group pray for you this week?