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Genesis 12:3
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In thee - In thy posterity, in the Messiah, who shall spring from thee, shall all families of the earth be blessed; for as he shall take on him human nature from the posterity of Abraham, he shall taste death for every man, his Gospel shall be preached throughout the world, and innumerable blessings be derived on all mankind through his death and intercession.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I will bless them that bless thee,.... Not the priests only that should bless his children, the children of Israel, as the Targum of Jonathan, but all men of all nations, and of every age, that speak well of him, commend him for his faith and holiness, and tread in his steps, these are blessed with faithful Abraham, Gal 3:7. And curse him that curseth thee; here is a change of numbers, before the plural, here the singular, denoting, it may be, that many would bless him, and but few curse him, and that every individual person that did curse him should be cursed himself: the Targum of Jonathan wrongly restrains this to Balaam's cursing Abraham's children, and was cursed by God; Maimonides (y) thinks, there is no doubt to be made of it, that the Zabaeans, the idolatrous people Abram was brought up with, when he contradicted them, loaded him with curses and reproaches; and, because he bore them all patiently for the glory of God, as became him, therefore these words are said; but they, without question, respect future as well as present times, and regard all such, in every age and of every nation, that disapproves of, or rejects and reproaches Abram's God, his faith, his religion, and his people. And in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed; that is, in his seed, as in Gen 22:18 and which is interpreted of Christ, Act 3:25 meaning not every individual of all the families or nations of the earth; but that as many as believe in Christ, of all nations, are blessed in him; and that whoever of them are blessed, they are blessed and only blessed in him, and that they are blessed for his sake with all spiritual blessings; see Eph 1:3 such as redemption, justification, remission of sins, sanctification, adoption, and eternal life. (y) More Nevochim, ut supra. (par. 3. c. 29. p. 421.)
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:3 Based on Abram’s obedience to the command to be a blessing (12:2), God gave him three more promises. • those who treat you with contempt: People who disregarded Abram and his covenant were rejecting God’s choice and plan. • All the families on earth will be blessed: By faith, they could participate in the covenant God was making with Abram. The blessing spread to the whole world through Abraham, Israel, the covenants, the prophets, Scripture, and the Messiah (Gal 3:8, 16; cp. Rom 9:4-5).
Genesis 12:3
The Call of Abram
2I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you. ”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Both And-Not Either or (Basis for Missions - Part 5)
By Paris Reidhead9.0K57:54MissionsGEN 12:3MAT 11:28MAT 16:24MAT 18:11MAT 28:19JHN 3:16ACT 1:8In this sermon, the speaker addresses a group of people and asks them if they have ever been lost. Only four people raise their hands. The speaker then points out that according to scripture, Jesus came to save the lost, so either the scripture is wrong or the people claiming to be saved are mistaken. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing our own lostness in order to effectively witness to others. They also highlight the responsibility to be witnesses both locally and globally, and the significance of money as a means to support the spreading of the gospel.
The Meaning of Life - 6. I Will Do It Through You
By Norman Grubb6.4K43:30Meaning Of LifeGEN 12:3JHN 4:14JHN 6:35ACT 18:25EPH 1:3EPH 2:6COL 1:27In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the presence of God in their lives and the lives of others. They emphasize the importance of understanding and knowing the way of God more perfectly. The central message of the sermon is the purpose of God to create a vast family of sons through His own son, Jesus, and to elevate them to the same level as Jesus, giving them the inheritance of the universe. The speaker also discusses the concept of the soul and the need to overcome the illusion of being an independent self, recognizing that in Christ, we are a self that is truly His.
Easter Passion
By Jim Cymbala5.9K1:04:43Passion Of ChristGEN 12:1GEN 12:3MAT 6:33ACT 17:11GAL 1:81TH 5:212TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a man who was delivered from a life of addiction and despair by the power of Christ. The speaker emphasizes the simplicity of the gospel message and the importance of sharing it with others. He recounts a moment when he felt a strong urging from the Holy Spirit to go and preach the gospel, despite his initial doubts. The speaker also briefly mentions a personal struggle he had with stepping out in faith and how God can provide guidance and help in uncertain situations.
Future Trends for the Body of Christ
By Art Katz4.5K1:21:51Body Of ChristGEN 12:3EXO 3:5JOS 3:1JOS 5:13ISA 43:2MAT 6:33ROM 11:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the things that are at hand rather than being distracted by distant and exciting things. He shares a personal experience of being convicted by God to go and share his faith with someone in Denmark. The speaker also discusses the significance of marriage, stating that it is not an accident but a divine plan from God. He encourages the audience to be prepared for the end times and to support ministers through prayer and fasting.
Genesis #14 Ch. 16-18 Test of Abraham
By Chuck Missler4.0K1:27:07TestingGEN 12:3GAL 4:41TH 4:18In this sermon, Chuck Misler focuses on Genesis chapters sixteen and seventeen. He begins with a prayer, asking for understanding and guidance from the Holy Spirit. Misler emphasizes the importance of studying the Bible without being limited by chapter divisions, as they can sometimes disrupt the flow of the message. He also highlights the supernatural basis for God's promises and the freedom from bondage that comes through Jesus Christ. Throughout the sermon, Misler references various Bible verses, including Galatians 4:4 and 1 Corinthians 13, to support his teachings.
The Principles of Missions (Basis for Missions - Part 1)
By Paris Reidhead4.0K42:39MissionsGEN 12:3GEN 22:18PRO 3:5ISA 55:11MAT 25:35ACT 1:8ROM 12:1The video is a sermon that emphasizes the eternal purpose of God to bring people to Himself and reveal His glory and grace. It highlights the importance of viewing the Bible as a missionary book that unfolds God's plan from the creation of the world to the new heaven and earth. The speaker emphasizes that the church, when rightly understood, is a missionary society. The sermon includes a personal anecdote about a woman who showed compassion to a young boy in need, prompting the audience to consider their own response to the needs around them.
The Love of God
By Art Katz3.0K49:22Love Of GodGEN 12:3JHN 21:17ACT 2:31PE 1:221PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love as the defining characteristic of God and the believers. The sermon explores the idea that Judas' betrayal of Jesus may have stemmed from a disappointed love, as Jesus did not meet his expectations as a deliverer for Israel. The preacher also highlights the need for believers to love unconditionally and extend themselves for others, even at the risk of their own lives. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that love is a powerful force that cannot fail and that God is glorified when believers demonstrate love for one another.
Placing Your Enemies in the Hands of God
By Carter Conlon2.9K1:01:09EnemiesGEN 12:3JDG 9:1PSA 37:5PRO 16:7MAT 6:33ROM 12:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to God's word in order to receive His blessings. He tells a story using the imagery of different trees representing different choices in life. The preacher emphasizes the need to walk the narrow path of truth and follow God's will. He also emphasizes the importance of having a relationship with God and loving Him, rather than just following legalistic rules. The sermon concludes with a call to place our enemies in the hand of God and release them, seeking mercy and salvation for them.
I Will Do It Through You
By Norman Grubb2.7K43:30Christ In UsGEN 12:3JHN 4:14JHN 6:35ACT 18:25EPH 1:3EPH 2:6COL 2:9In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the presence of God in their lives and the lives of others. They emphasize the importance of understanding and knowing the way of God more perfectly. The central message of the sermon is the purpose of God to create a vast family of sons through His own son, Jesus, and to elevate them to the same level as Jesus, giving them the inheritance of the universe. The speaker also discusses the concept of the soul and how disturbances in the soul can lead to feelings of dryness or a need for renewal, but emphasizes that in Christ, we are not independent selves but rather expressions of His self in union with Him.
Redeemed From the Law
By Harry Ironside2.6K05:31LawGEN 12:3JHN 3:16ACT 17:30ROM 3:24GAL 3:13EPH 1:31TI 2:4In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal testimony of coming to the Lord Jesus Christ as a sinner. He emphasizes the understanding of breaking God's law and being under condemnation. However, he found that Christ had given himself as a ransom for his soul, bringing joy and blessing to his heart. The speaker encourages the audience to trust in Christ and experience the deliverance from the curse of the law and the blessing of Abraham through faith. He also emphasizes the importance of repentance and acknowledging one's guilt before God.
Foretaste of Hell
By G.W. North2.5K1:27:25HellGEN 4:1GEN 12:3EXO 5:1EXO 6:9MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Moses and his reluctance to fulfill God's call to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The preacher emphasizes how Moses initially made excuses and objections, but ultimately angered God and failed to reach his highest potential. The sermon highlights the importance of obedience and the consequences of reluctance. The preacher encourages the audience to reflect on their own hearts and discover their true selves, while also emphasizing the love and forgiveness of Jesus.
The Ark and the Rebuilding of the Temple
By Grant Jeffrey2.5K1:12:20GEN 12:3PSA 119:160ISA 46:9MAT 6:33REV 21:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the word of God as an absolute foundation of truth. They express their logical and skeptical nature, stating that they believe in knowing the truth rather than blind faith. The speaker highlights the uniqueness of the Bible, stating that it declares itself as the word of God and fulfills prophecies. They also discuss the possibility of the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem and the recovery of the lost Ark of the Covenant, pointing to biblical prophecies as evidence.
No Two Saints Are Alike
By Leonard Ravenhill2.3K1:16:34Christian WalkGEN 12:3EXO 20:18MAT 5:3MAT 5:51CO 1:272TI 3:16HEB 11:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses various topics related to the Christian faith. He mentions spending time in the water for about 25 minutes out of a total of four hours. He also talks about looking at a girl and praying for victory. The preacher emphasizes the importance of fleeing from youthful lust and keeping oneself from idols, referencing passages from the Bible. He also highlights the need for purity rather than just seeking peace and power. Additionally, he mentions the hardships faced by believers and the importance of remaining faithful in difficult times.
(Through the Bible) Galatians 3
By Chuck Smith2.2K47:48GEN 12:3GEN 22:18HAB 1:2GAL 2:16GAL 3:10GAL 3:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that true belief in God is not just a verbal assent to the truth, but it is demonstrated through actions. He uses the example of a hypothetical earthquake to illustrate this point. The preacher also highlights the impossibility of being justified before God by works, as no one can be perfect. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of faith in God's grace for salvation. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God's blessings come through Jesus Christ and His covenant, and that the law cannot nullify God's promises.
(Pure Testimony) a Witness for God on Earth
By Zac Poonen2.1K58:55PurityGEN 12:3EXO 3:2LEV 6:20LEV 7:6MAT 5:19HEB 6:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a witness for God in our personal lives and within our families. He uses the example of Job, who was described as an upright man who feared God. Job's dedication to his family is highlighted, as he would gather his grown-up sons and daughters for feasts and offer sacrifices on their behalf. The speaker urges listeners to take sin seriously and to be a part of the pure witness for God, even if others around them are hypocritical. He also emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commandments, even in seemingly small matters, and not allowing culture or traditions to influence our obedience to God's word.
K-023 the Mystery of the German and the Jew
By Art Katz1.9K57:59GermanGEN 12:3GEN 22:18PSA 130:3MAT 7:7LUK 1:52LUK 11:13JAS 3:10In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of discipleship and the need for believers to watch and pray during times of trial. He acknowledges the controversy surrounding discipleship and emphasizes the need for principles to be rooted in the cross and the life of God. The speaker also highlights the importance of repentance and daily acknowledgement of one's own sinfulness. He shares his personal testimony of encountering God and being transformed from a life of blasphemy and sin to a life of praise and acknowledgement of God.
The Fatherhood of God
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K40:25GEN 12:3MAT 6:9MAT 6:33JHN 1:12ROM 8:14EPH 2:191JN 3:1In this sermon, preached by Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the focus is on the Fatherhood of God. Spurgeon emphasizes the love and mercy of God towards humanity, urging those who do not love and fear God to seek forgiveness through the blood of Christ. He highlights the significance of being called children of God, stating that it is not just a name but a reflection of God's great heart towards us. Spurgeon also emphasizes the duty of love that comes with this sonship, urging listeners to love their Heavenly Father. He concludes by highlighting the comfort and strength that comes from knowing God as our Father, even in times of trouble and adversity.
The Israel of God - Part 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K1:04:29IsraelGEN 12:3ISA 53:10MAT 6:33JHN 3:3JHN 3:16ROM 9:6GAL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the transition from the old method of God to the new method of God. The passage in John chapter three is explored, particularly the concept of being born again and God's love for the world. The speaker emphasizes the need to understand the background and context of these teachings. The sermon also highlights the contrast between the historic practices and the truth that Jesus brings, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth.
(Through the Bible) Isaiah 41-42
By Chuck Smith1.5K45:40GEN 12:3ISA 41:11DAN 5:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses God's self-definition and his power as the creator of the heavens and the earth. The preacher references the story of Belshazzar and the handwriting on the wall to emphasize the consequences of disregarding God's holiness. The preacher highlights God's challenge to the people who make their own gods, emphasizing the illogicality of creating one's own deity. God declares his ability to predict and declare future events, challenging other gods to do the same. The preacher also mentions the call to sing a new song to the Lord and the invitation for people to come together for judgment. The sermon concludes with a discussion of Cyrus, whom God raised up to rule over kings, further emphasizing God's sovereignty and power.
Spiritual Service: Trained to Administer the Church
By Hoseah Wu1.4K1:02:29AdministrationGEN 12:3MAT 6:33JHN 3:26JHN 13:151CO 4:1HEB 3:2HEB 3:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of serving the Lord wholeheartedly. He refers to 1 Corinthians 4:1-2, which teaches that believers are called to be servants of Christ and stewards of His mysteries. The preacher emphasizes the need for trustworthiness in stewardship. He also discusses the significance of making time for the Lord and seeking His guidance in order to effectively lead and teach others. Additionally, the preacher highlights the importance of doing things to please God, rather than simply going through the motions.
(Through the Bible) Isaiah 46-47
By Chuck Smith1.3K40:06GEN 12:3ISA 46:9ISA 46:13ISA 48:3MAT 25:31MAT 25:34In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Nebuchadnezzar and his prideful behavior. Nebuchadnezzar initially repents and walks humbly before God, but eventually falls back into pride and is warned by the watchers that he will be driven forth with a wild beast for seven seasons. The preacher also mentions how astrology was popular during that time and how Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar's dream about a great image and a rock that destroys it. The sermon emphasizes the power and sovereignty of God, who declares the end from the beginning and warns against worshiping false gods.
Jesus, the Ladder to Heaven
By Major Ian Thomas1.2K40:36HeavenGEN 12:3GEN 28:10GEN 28:15GEN 28:17JHN 1:46JHN 1:49In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Jacob's encounter with God at a seemingly desolate place. Jacob, feeling homesick and lonely, finds himself in a situation where he believes he is in a god-forsaken spot. However, it is in this very place that he has a personal meeting with God. The preacher emphasizes that God often reveals Himself in unlikely situations and that even when we feel abandoned, God is present. The sermon also highlights the promise made to Jacob that from his seed, the Messiah would come and bless all the families of the earth. The preacher encourages listeners to have a personal encounter with Jesus Christ and recognize that even in the most unlikely places, God is present.
A Challenge to All Who Call on the Name of the Lord - Part 1
By Hamp Sirmans1.1K57:08ChallengeGEN 12:3PRO 19:11PRO 27:17MAT 6:332TI 3:16HEB 12:12PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of looking to Jesus in our Christian journey rather than relying on our own strength. He highlights three obstacles that hinder Christians from becoming who God wants them to be: offenses, change, and familiarity with Christ. The preacher reminds the congregation that even biblical figures like Abraham, Moses, David, and Peter had their flaws and shortcomings, but it didn't make them any less spiritual or usable by God. The sermon encourages believers to have a perfect heart towards God and to allow Him to work in their lives.
K-467 God's Purpose for Israel and the Church
By Art Katz9761:14:13IsraelGEN 12:3ISA 53:5MAT 6:33ACT 1:8ROM 11:33REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power and importance of the Word of God. He states that when the Word of God is spoken in obedience to God's commandment, it has the ability to raise the dead. The speaker also discusses the relationship between the church and Israel, highlighting the significance of Israel in making God known to all nations. He warns against deception and self-celebration within the church, urging believers to align their perspectives with how God sees things. The sermon concludes with a reading from Ezekiel 37, where the prophet is shown a vision of a valley filled with dry bones, symbolizing the spiritual condition of the people. God instructs the prophet to prophesy over the bones, and they come to life, representing the power of God to bring life and restoration.
Rubbish
By Paris Reidhead91035:24Christian LifeGEN 12:3NEH 4:1NEH 4:3MAT 5:17MAT 16:18JHN 5:39ACT 1:8In this sermon on Nehemiah chapter 4, the preacher begins by expressing his delight in studying and meditating on this chapter. He highlights the opposition faced by Nehemiah and the Jews as they sought to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The preacher emphasizes the importance of worship and fellowship with God, stating that true service to God flows out of genuine worship. He concludes by reminding the listeners that God seeks those who will worship Him in spirit and truth.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In thee - In thy posterity, in the Messiah, who shall spring from thee, shall all families of the earth be blessed; for as he shall take on him human nature from the posterity of Abraham, he shall taste death for every man, his Gospel shall be preached throughout the world, and innumerable blessings be derived on all mankind through his death and intercession.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I will bless them that bless thee,.... Not the priests only that should bless his children, the children of Israel, as the Targum of Jonathan, but all men of all nations, and of every age, that speak well of him, commend him for his faith and holiness, and tread in his steps, these are blessed with faithful Abraham, Gal 3:7. And curse him that curseth thee; here is a change of numbers, before the plural, here the singular, denoting, it may be, that many would bless him, and but few curse him, and that every individual person that did curse him should be cursed himself: the Targum of Jonathan wrongly restrains this to Balaam's cursing Abraham's children, and was cursed by God; Maimonides (y) thinks, there is no doubt to be made of it, that the Zabaeans, the idolatrous people Abram was brought up with, when he contradicted them, loaded him with curses and reproaches; and, because he bore them all patiently for the glory of God, as became him, therefore these words are said; but they, without question, respect future as well as present times, and regard all such, in every age and of every nation, that disapproves of, or rejects and reproaches Abram's God, his faith, his religion, and his people. And in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed; that is, in his seed, as in Gen 22:18 and which is interpreted of Christ, Act 3:25 meaning not every individual of all the families or nations of the earth; but that as many as believe in Christ, of all nations, are blessed in him; and that whoever of them are blessed, they are blessed and only blessed in him, and that they are blessed for his sake with all spiritual blessings; see Eph 1:3 such as redemption, justification, remission of sins, sanctification, adoption, and eternal life. (y) More Nevochim, ut supra. (par. 3. c. 29. p. 421.)
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:3 Based on Abram’s obedience to the command to be a blessing (12:2), God gave him three more promises. • those who treat you with contempt: People who disregarded Abram and his covenant were rejecting God’s choice and plan. • All the families on earth will be blessed: By faith, they could participate in the covenant God was making with Abram. The blessing spread to the whole world through Abraham, Israel, the covenants, the prophets, Scripture, and the Messiah (Gal 3:8, 16; cp. Rom 9:4-5).