Genesis 14:1-24
Key verse 14:19,20 “And he blessed Abram, saying, ‘Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High who delivered your enemies into your hand.’ Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”
1. Who was Kedorlaomer and what influence did he have over the Middle East? Why did he go to war against the king of Sodom and his allies? What was the outcome of the war? (1-12)
2. What did Abram do in response and what does it show about his love for Lot? (13-16) How may Abram have been tempted to take all the land for himself in light of God’s promise to him in 13:15?
3. Who is Melchizedek? (18; cf. Hebrews 7:1-3) How do Melchizedek and the king of Sodom represent two alternative life directions before Abram?
4. What did Melchizedek teach Abram about God? (19; 1984 NIV translates “Creator” as “Possessor.”) Why was it important to remind Abram that his victory came from God? (20) What is the significance of Abram giving a tithe to Melchizedek?
5. In refusing to accept the spoils of the war, how does Abram show his faith in God and in God’s blessings? (21-24)