Prayer

  This page outlines a "Classic Series" on Prayer hosted by Covington Community Church. Spanning from May through July 2024, the sermon series features weekly teachings led by speakers like Pastor/Rabbi Rod Meyers and Janine. The messages explore prayer not just as a religious routine, but as a dynamic, two-way conversation with God, touching on practical spiritual habits, biblical foundations, historical figures, and spiritual warfare.

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3 Our Father, Abraham

Our Father, Abraham: A Study Workbook

Based on Message 3: Overcoming Obstacles in Your Prayer Life (Delivered June 16, 2024)

📚 Session Overview

In this lesson, we explore the concept of spiritual fatherhood through the life of Abraham—our "Father of Faith"—examining key lessons on radical faith, hospitality, persistent intercession, and God's Redemptive Plan looking down the corridors of time.

📖 Key Scripture References

• Genesis 18:19: "For I have chosen him so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the ways of the Lord by doing what is right and just..."

• Galatians 3: "All who believe are descendants of Abraham."

• 2 Corinthians 6:18: "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."

Part 1: The Meaning and Legacy of Abraham

Transcript Reference: [11:46 Opens in a new window ]

Abraham's journey from Babylon to Canaan teaches us about radical faith and stepping out when God calls.

1. What does the original name "Abram" mean?

   Answer: Beloved father.

2. What does the name change to "Abraham" signify when God added the breath of life/spirituality?

   Answer: Exalted father / father of many nations.

3. Discussion Question: Abraham was 99 years old before his son Isaac was born. Why is Abraham referred to as the "father of all who believe," and how does his name reflect God's power over natural limitations?

Part 2: Hospitality and the Miraculous Promise (Genesis 18)

Transcript Reference: [17:02 Opens in a new window ]

Abraham demonstrates humble hospitality by greeting visitors (a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ and angels) at the heat of the day.

Event / DetailSignificanceThe GreetingAbraham bows low (nose to toes) and offers the washing of feet and a meal (bread, curds, and a choice calf).Sarah's LaughterSarah laughs at the promise of having a son in her 90s, leading to the naming of Isaac (meaning "laughter").Miracle LineageBoth Isaac and later Jesus (Yeshua) highlight God's power working completely outside natural human capabilities.

Part 3: The Intercessory Prayer of a Father

Transcript Reference: [25:07 Opens in a new window ]

In Genesis 18:16–33, God shares His plans with Abraham because Abraham is His friend. Abraham boldly intercedes for Sodom and Gomorrah and his nephew Lot.

• Bold Intercession: Abraham negotiates with God down from 50 righteous people to 10.

• The Redemptive Cord: Though the wicked cities fell, God preserved survivors, ultimately weaving their lineage through the Book of Ruth (Moabite lineage) to King David and Jesus Christ.

• Reflection Question: How does Abraham's bold prayer model how we should intercede for our families and communities today?

✍️ Personal Application & Reflection

1. Overcoming Obstacles: In what areas of your prayer life do you feel like you've "hit a ceiling," and how can you practice bold persistence like Abraham?

2. Honoring Fathers: How do both your physical and spiritual fathers point you toward God the Father?

3. Intercession Practice: Write down a short prayer of intercession for someone in your family or community who needs God's grace and redemption today.