Advent Sermons || 2|| Hope For the Nations || Genesis 12:1-3

Discovering Hope | Genesis 12

Posted on: December 14, 2024

Series: Discovering Hope in Jesus

This Advent, we are reflecting on the theme of hope, as seen in God’s redemptive plan from the very beginning. In this second sermon of our series, Andrew Irwin unpacks Genesis 12:1-9, where God calls Abraham and promises to bless him so that he will be a blessing to all nations. This is a foundational moment in Scripture, pointing us to the ultimate hope fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Hope for the Nations

Last week, we saw the devastating effects of sin in Genesis 3 and caught a glimpse of hope in God’s promise of redemption. This week, we move forward to Abraham, a man called by God not because of his qualifications, but because of God’s purposes. In Genesis 12, God speaks to Abraham, calling him to leave his country and go to an unknown land, with a promise that through him, all nations on earth will be blessed.

This moment is not just about Abraham—it’s about God’s unfolding plan for the world. The hope given to Abraham is a hope for the nations. It’s the same hope we see fulfilled in Jesus, who comes as the ultimate blessing, bringing salvation to all who trust in Him.

Blessed to Be a Blessing

Andrew Irwin reminds us that God’s blessing is never meant to be kept to ourselves. Just as Abraham was blessed to be a blessing, we are called to live out that same mission today. The blessing of God overflows—it’s relational, transformative, and meant to impact the world around us. As individuals and as a church, we are called to reflect God’s generosity, grace, and love in our city and beyond.

Living as Bearers of Hope

This Advent season challenges us to ask two key questions:

Do we know the blessing of God in our lives through Jesus Christ?
Are we living as a blessing to others?

If we know Christ, then we are invited to let His blessing overflow in our relationships, our service, and our witness. As we look to the hope fulfilled in Jesus, may we also live as bearers of hope, blessing others with the joy of salvation and the light of Christ in a dark world.

Listen to the Full Sermon

Be encouraged by the full message of this week’s sermon. Click play below to listen:

We hope this message blesses you and inspires you to live as a blessing to others. Join us next week as we continue our Advent series, *Discovering Hope,* exploring how God’s promises unfold throughout Scripture and point us to Jesus.

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