Read Gen. 22:1-14
Faith and substitution: those are the two key words that are on display in this passage. We learned a little about Isaac’s parents this week, and we learn a lot more about his father, and our heavenly Father, today.
Abram, now Abraham, had his faith tested by God, and he responded in faith. He knew God was worthy of trust, so he followed his command. He also knew that God would keep his promise, so he believed that if it were necessary, God would bring his son back to life again (Heb. 11:17-19). God didn’t need to bring Isaac back to life again, because he had a plan for a substitute sacrifice, which points us to Christ.
Indeed, the promise to Abraham in Gen. 13:15 and 17:8 was, according to Paul, concerning Christ. “Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, “And to offsprings,” referring to many, but referring to one, “And to your offspring,” who is Christ” (Gal. 3:16). A substitute was provided for Isaac so that God’s promise for a substitute for all believers could come through his heir, Jesus.
I Commend Joy! 