Kyeland

Q4. What do you think about Abraham's and Sarah's ethics and faith? Are they ethically and morally wrong? Does the Scripture intend to show that their actions as a lack of faith? What lessons should we disciples learn from these stories? I think they are ethically and morally wrong. Abram expresses a knowledge of the fear of God but says nothing about faith. His actions show little faith because he doesn't turn to God but relies on his own reasoning in going to Egypt and fears what will befall him there. Abram devises a plan to avoid what he fears, again relying on his own reasoning. This reminds me of Hebrews which stresses maturing in the Lord and growing in faith. I look on Abram as being full of promise but lacking in this maturity that Hebrews speaks of at this point in his life. It seems Abram doesn't suffer much consequence. Perhaps the increase in his material fortunes speaks to him louder and teaches him more than suffering consequences would. Kyeland "Courage is fear that has said it's prayers."

Q3. (20:3-6) What does this story teach us about God's view of adultery? Can God forgive a person who has committed adultery? God deems adultery punishable by death. David found forgiveness from God for his adultery with Bathsheba by repenting of his sins. At the end of his life David could claim in 2Samuel verse 22...that he has kept the ways of the Lord and he has not acted wickedly against God. David knew God had forgiven him, to David his own hands were clean and his conscience clear. I think when we've repented and asked God for his forgiveness, forgiving ourselves is sometimes a problem. Kyeland

Q2. (12:17-20) Why did Pharaoh and his household get sick? What effect did this have? What was God seeking to accomplish through this affliction? Did it have the desired effect? This is interesting to me as Pharaoh intuits the reasons for all these illnesses befallen him. Abraham bases his fears on being in a land that knows no fear of God, yet Pharaoh does know this fear and acts on it. Pharaoh, eager to wash his hands clean, gives Sarai back to Abraham and sends both on their way, hoping that God will restore health to his house by doing so. Maybe Abraham has gained a bit more faith through it all, combining faith with his fear of God as he surely depended on his own reasonings, putting himself in the position he found himself in. Kyeland

Q1. (12:10) What dangers faced Abraham and his family as aliens and sojourners in Egypt and elsewhere? Who might oppress them? Strangers in a foreign land were in danger from any native, they could be robbed or killed. The leaders in such a land could take what they wanted or do away with them, whatever they pleased. What "aliens and sojourners" live in your community? I live on the central coast of California, here we have Asians and Mexicans mostly but also Portuguese, Middle Easterners, people from India. Why did they come? They came to improve their lives. How are they being oppressed or discriminated against by employers and others in the community? First generation immigrants, those who have newly arrived and can't speak English have a tough time. The various government agencies, city, county, state, and federal provide many safety nets for them especially the basics..shelter, food, medical, and education. In this county (Santa Barbara) the offspring or second generation do very well and prosper, especially those from families who encourage and prize education. What can you and your church do to "love those who are aliens"? We do many things here, have food drives, toy drives at Holiday time, and extend invitations to participate and partake in special church activities. The local library as well as the schools have special displays so others can learn of other cultures that are represented in the ethnic groups that live here too. It's a matter of including them and making an effort to understand them. Kyeland

Hello Everyone, I'm from California, residing mid state on the coast. I'm looking forward to learning from you all and gaining wisdom from our study together. My name is Carolyn though I use "Kyeland" on forums, in memory of my beloved pet Kye. Pets have touched my life in special ways. I am so fotunate to have this incredible opportunity to join in study with you all, one of the best uses of this powerful tool called internet. It's truely international in scope, not possible until these recent years. I am blessed! Love in Him, Kyeland