The Book of Genesis
Part 21
In our last study we noticed in the confusion of tongues at Babel and the scattering of the human race that there was an intimation that God was preparing the nation through which He would deliver His oracles to the world, the channel through which He would send His Son as Saviour into the world.
We have come to the point in our examination of Genesis where we leave the detailed studies of peoples to engage in an introductory study of the people, Israel. This, of course, will lead us into the history of the father of that chosen nation, Abraham.
Inasmuch as there is much valuable material in Abraham’s life, material illustrative of both the blessings and the dangers of the Christian experience, we shall proceed thoughtfully and prayerfully.
Some months ago in writing about different methods of Bible study, mention was made of the study of Old Testament types, and this particular method was further broken down into the study of typical events, typical ordinances, and typical characters. Now the portion of Genesis open before us (chaps. 12-50 ) is replete with typical characters.
There are four prominent men here, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. The meaning of their names has been given: Abraham, the father of a multitude; Isaac, laughing; Jacob, one who supplants or trips up; Joseph, he who adds. From their individual histories we learn, that Abraham was selected from among the nations by God, that Isaac enjoyed an unusual experience of sonship with his father, that Jacob was much disciplined by the Lord, and that Joseph through prolonged suffering entered into dignity, power, and glory. In these personal details there lies a fore-gleam of the entire history of the chosen people, the Hebrews. That nation was elected by God, redeemed and brought by Him into the place of sonship before God, severely disciplined by the Lord, but, notwithstanding, through long suffering is destined for glory.
From the history of these four patriarchs, we also may learn deep lessons in regard to ourselves. Abraham speaks to us of faith, Isaac of love, Jacob of hope, and Joseph of glory. We are the subjects of faith, the objects of love, the recipients of hope, and the predestined for glory.
Moreover, we see that Abraham was a man with a tent, for divine election made him a pilgrim; Isaac was a man of wells for divine sonship produces refreshment; Jacob was a man of many pillors, for discipline leads to more faithful witnessing; and, Joseph was a dreamer of dreams, he was anticipating future glory.
Let us look more carefully into these things, and make an application of them to ourselves.