Scripture References: Romans 4:18-25; Genesis 12-21 (Context); James 1:6-8
Intro: Concluding our mini-series on faith, primarily looking at Abraham in Genesis, we now turn to Romans 4. Paul uses Abraham to illustrate foundational truths vital for understanding Romans 5-8. If Abraham's story isn't alive to us, the rest lacks power. We've explored seeing, hearing, and walking by faith. Today, focusing on Romans 4:18-25, we examine the quality of Abraham's faith: he did not waver.
Key Points:
- The Call to Non-Wavering Faith: Paul highlights Abraham's faith: "Against all hope, in hope believed" (v. 18). Despite facing impossible realities ("body as good as dead," Sarah's dead womb - v. 19), "he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God" (v. 20). He remained steadfast, contrasting with James' warning against double-minded wavering.
- Facing Facts vs. Fixating on Promises: Abraham "faced the fact" of his physical limitations (v. 19). Faith isn't denying reality. However, he didn't let the facts dictate his belief. Instead, he focused on God's promise and power, becoming "strengthened in his faith" and giving "glory to God" (v. 20). Faith acknowledges reality but anchors in God's promise.
- Fully Persuaded Confidence (v. 21): Abraham was "fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." This wasn't blind optimism but a deep conviction rooted in God's character. This confident, childlike trust, even when illogical ("glorious madness"), is what God honors. It was this faith credited as righteousness (v. 22).
- Application: A Non-Wavering Step (Church Plant): The speaker shares their personal application: After months of prayer, prophetic words, confirmations, and seeking counsel, they feel God clearly calling them to plant a church in San Francisco. Despite potential fears, costs, and sadness, they are choosing not to waver but to obey this leading in faith.
- Call to the Church Family: Announcing this now (9-10 months ahead) allows time for processing, prayer, and for potential team members to consider joining. An appeal is made for the church family not to pull back relationally but to partner in heart and prayer ("an us thing"). A prayer day in SF is announced for December 1st.
Conclusion: Abraham models a faith that, while acknowledging reality, refuses to waver in its confidence in God's promise and power. He was fully persuaded. This steadfast faith pleases God. As we face our own "dead" circumstances or challenging callings, let's learn from Abraham to face facts but stand unwavering on God's promises, fully persuaded He is able.
Call to Action: Identify areas where circumstances tempt you to waver in faith. Choose today to shift your focus from the "dead facts" to God's life-giving promises. Ask God for the grace to be "fully persuaded" of His power and faithfulness. Commit to not wavering. Pray for the SF church plant team as they seek to walk this out.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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