Commentary on Genesis 15-18
Chuck Smith explains how God's covenant with Abram reveals His protective presence and promises, connecting Old Testament revelations to the person of Jesus Christ as the living Word.
In this sermon, Chuck Smith provides an insightful exposition of Genesis 15-18, focusing on God's covenant with Abram and the first use of the phrase 'The word of the LORD.' He draws powerful connections between this Old Testament revelation and the person of Jesus Christ as the living Word in the New Testament. Listeners are encouraged to understand God's protective nature and promises, deepening their faith in His eternal covenant.
Text
Now after these things (Gen 15:1)
That is, after the battle against these kings, after the meeting of Melchizedek, after the refusal of taking the reward and so forth from the king of Sodom.
the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward (Gen 15:1).
"The word of the LORD", this is the first time this phrase is used in the Bible. It will now be used many, many times over. But always the first usage is always interesting of a phrase. And this is the first usage of the phrase, "The word of the LORD". Later in the New Testament we find the word of the LORD being identified as Jesus Christ.
"In the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God, the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in the darkness; the darkness comprehended it not" (John 1:1-5) and so forth. And then "the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us" (John 1:14).
The word of the LORD came of Abraham in a vision. It could be that Jesus was referring to this when He said, "Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and saw it" (John 8:56). "Word of the LORD came to Abraham in a vision."
This is the first time that the term "shield" is used or "reward" is used and it is the first time God revealed Himself as the "I am." "I am thy shield and exceeding great reward." Jesus picked up this term many times in the New Testament. "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12). I am the bread of life, down from heaven" (John 6:48,50). I am the good shepherd" (John 10:11). And so many times Jesus in John\
Sermon Outline
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I
- Context of Genesis 15:1 after battles and meetings
- Introduction of the phrase 'The word of the LORD'
- Significance of God's first self-revelation as 'I am thy shield'
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II
- Connection between Old Testament 'word of the LORD' and Jesus Christ
- Jesus as the living Word in John 1
- Jesus' self-identifications in the Gospel of John
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III
- God's promise to Abram as a foundation of faith
- The meaning of God as shield and reward
- Encouragement to trust God's covenantal promises
Key Quotes
“The word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” — Chuck Smith
“This is the first time God revealed Himself as the 'I am.' 'I am thy shield and exceeding great reward.'” — Chuck Smith
“Later in the New Testament we find the word of the LORD being identified as Jesus Christ.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- Trust in God's protection as your shield in times of fear and uncertainty.
- Recognize Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God's Word and promises.
- Grow in faith by remembering God's covenantal faithfulness throughout Scripture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'The word of the LORD' mean in Genesis 15:1?
It refers to God's direct communication and revelation, which in the New Testament is identified with Jesus Christ as the living Word.
Why is God called 'thy shield and exceeding great reward'?
This title reveals God's protective nature and the great blessings He provides to His people, emphasizing His role as both protector and provider.
How does this sermon connect the Old Testament to the New Testament?
Chuck Smith highlights how the phrase 'The word of the LORD' first used in Genesis points forward to Jesus Christ, who is the Word made flesh.
What is the significance of God's self-revelation as 'I am'?
It signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His personal relationship with His people, a theme Jesus echoes in the New Testament.
How should believers apply the promises made to Abram today?
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's faithfulness and protection, knowing He is their shield and reward in all circumstances.