Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for September 21, 2014

“El-Shaddai: God Almighty Genesis 17:1-5 Bible Study 09/21/14

This morning we turn our attention to a man who became a father at age 100! More significantly, this father’s story points us to the Heavenly Father whose name is “God Almighty.” He was and is a promise-making and promise-keeping God. The assuring message He conveyed to Abram needs to be heard today. God Almighty is faithful to fulfill His promises through His incomparable power. Because He is God Almighty, we can trust the Lord to keep His promises to us even in seemingly impossible circumstances.

I. Sometimes a promise looks like an impossibility

-What in your life looks impossible?
-Abram: father of many/any!

II. Grasp the greatness of El-Shaddai

-supreme power
-supernatural provision
-known exclusively through Jesus

III. Assume the posture of positive surrender

-God does not need your help
-God does demand your obedience
-Abraham: Father of a multitude

IV. So what?

-“Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing….” (Luther)
-“Sever the root of sin by prizing the promises of God.” (Piper)
-The position from which we prize His promises is the path of obedience.
-“When my strength was all gone, When my heart had no song, Still in love He’s proved faithful to me. Every word He promised is true. What I thought was impossible I’ve seen my God do. He’s been faithful, faithful to me…” (Cymbala)
-A reminder from the experience of Olympian Derek Redmond