Introduction

When we were kids, mistakes were magically fixed with a “do-over.” As adults, God knows we still need “do-overs.” Good thing the Bible begins with a book called “Genesis.” It is not merely the beginning—it tells the story of “new-beginnings.” Generation after generation—Adam, Noah, and Abraham—God gave second chances. Perhaps it’s time for a reboot for you, your church, or your community!

I’m sure that all of you have been dying to know how Barbara and I met. I was 18 years old and it was two days before my freshman classes began at Ozark Christian college. I literally knew two people on the entire campus and neither of them talked to me more than 30 seconds my first year. So, I was in serious need of some new friends. Some of the boys on the dorm floor went out to play football. It seemed like a good time; and I’m always up for a good time. In the middle of the game I looked across the field to see this glowing angel who had just come from getting her yearbook picture taken. She was looking good!

Covenant is the only way to have a real relationship with God.

Abraham, the Father of Faith

All the way back in Genesis chapter 12 God made a promise to a man named Abraham. He was a pagan living in Mesopotamia. God said, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.” (Genesis 12:1-2) God’s covenant with Abraham had two requirements: leave your land and leave your family. This covenant also had two promises: a bigger land and a larger family. That was the covenant and Abraham pledged his allegiance to it. Through his obedience, he became the father of the faith.

That’s what the apostle Paul said in Romans 4:3, “For what does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness ... View this full sermon with PRO Premium