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Genesis 15:6
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness - This I conceive to be one of the most important passages in the whole Old Testament. It properly contains and specifies that doctrine of justification by faith which engrosses so considerable a share of the epistles of St. Paul, and at the foundation of which is the atonement made by the Son of God: And he (Abram) believed האמן heemin, he put faith) in Jehovah, ויחשבה לו vaiyachshebeita lo, and he counted it - the faith he put in Jehovah, to Him for righteousness, צדקה tsedakah, or justification; though there was no act in the case but that of the mind and heart, no work of any kind. Hence the doctrine of justification by faith, without any merit of works; for in this case there could be none - no works of Abram which could merit the salvation of the whole human race. It was the promise of God which he credited, and in the blessedness of which he became a partaker through faith. See at Gen 15:19 (note); see also on Romans 4 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he believed in the Lord,.... The Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan are,"in the Word of the Lord;''in the essential Word of the Lord, in Christ the Lord his righteousness; he believed in the promise of God, that he should have a seed, and a very numerous one; he believed that the Messiah would spring from his seed; he believed in him as his Saviour and Redeemer; he believed in him for righteousness, and he believed in his righteousness as justifying him before God: and he counted it to him for righteousness; not the act of his faith, but the object of it; and not the promise he believed, but what was promised, and his faith received, even Christ and his righteousness this was imputed to him without works, and while he was an uncircumcised person, for the proof of which the apostle produces this passage, Rom 4:3; wherefore this is not to be understood of any action of his being esteemed and accounted a righteous one, and he pronounced and acknowledged a righteous person on account of it; for Abram was not justified before God by his own works, but by the righteousness of faith, as all that believe are, that is, by the righteousness of Christ revealed to faith, and received by it: what is imputed is without a man, and the imputation of it depends upon the will of another; such the righteousness of Christ without works imputed by God the Father. This is the first time we read of believing, and as early do we hear of imputed righteousness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:6 And Abram believed: God made his covenant with a believer; the statement does not indicate when Abram came to faith. The Hebrew text does not link Abram’s belief with the promise of the stars; it just says parenthetically that Abram believed God. Abram already had faith; his departure from Ur was his first great act that demonstrated it (see Heb 11:8-10). • God counted him as righteous because of his faith: This central statement about Abram’s saving faith is quoted three times in the New Testament (Rom 4:3; Gal 3:6; Jas 2:23) to support the doctrine of righteousness before God by faith (see also Rom 4:22-23).
Genesis 15:6
God’s Covenant with Abram
5And the LORD took him outside and said, “Now look to the heavens and count the stars, if you are able.” Then He told him, “So shall your offspring be.” 6Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness.
- Scripture
- Sermons
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Genesis #13 Ch. 14-15 Contrast of Abraham and Lot
By Chuck Missler3.6K1:31:06GenesisGEN 14:14GEN 15:1GEN 15:6GEN 15:18In this sermon on Genesis chapters 14 and 15, Chuck Misler explores the relationship between Abraham and Lot. He introduces the concept of the law of first mention, which suggests that the first mention of something in the Bible holds significant meaning. Misler highlights the first mentions of words like "blood," "word of the Lord," and "vision" to uncover deeper insights into the story of redemption. He also discusses the intentional omissions and silences in the text, pointing out that sometimes the Holy Spirit's omission of certain details is crucial to understanding the story. The sermon concludes with a focus on God's promise to Abraham that his descendants will be afflicted for 400 years before returning to the land, as the sin of the Amorites must first be complete for God to judge.
Once Saved, Always Saved 2
By Jacob Prasch3.4K55:50AssuranceGEN 15:6JHN 5:39HEB 6:1REV 2:11REV 3:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of falling away from faith. He emphasizes that one cannot fall away from a place they have never been, suggesting that those who have truly experienced faith in Jesus can potentially fall away. The preacher also references John Calvin's belief that some may have only had a superficial understanding of faith. He highlights the importance of faith being accompanied by works, using the analogy of a model airplane that is useless without being put into action. The sermon concludes with a reminder that Christians have the free will to choose their path and warns against departing from Jesus.
(Genesis) Genesis 22:1-2
By J. Vernon McGee3.0K08:22GenesisGEN 15:6GEN 22:1GEN 22:9MAT 6:33ROM 4:1JAS 1:13JAS 2:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Abraham and Isaac from the Bible. He addresses the apparent contradiction between James and Paul regarding Abraham's justification by works. The preacher suggests that both James and Paul are correct in their statements. He explains that Abraham's act of offering Isaac as a sacrifice was an act of faith and obedience, demonstrating his works of faith. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and purpose of James and Paul's teachings in order to reconcile their seemingly conflicting statements.
(Genesis) Genesis 11:10-32
By J. Vernon McGee2.7K11:32GEN 4:7GEN 5:26GEN 6:5GEN 11:1GEN 12:1GEN 15:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the shift in focus from events to important personalities in the Bible, specifically in the book of Genesis. The four main personalities mentioned are Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. The speaker highlights Abraham as a man of faith and introduces the upcoming chapter 12. The sermon also touches on the tower of Babel and the significance of these events in demonstrating humanity's sinfulness and the need for Christ.
By This They Got a Good Report
By Manley Beasley2.2K39:47Good ReportGEN 1:1GEN 15:6EXO 33:11MAT 6:33JHN 1:1HEB 11:2HEB 11:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord and living a life of faith. He acknowledges that many Christians struggle with exercising faith and urges the audience to pay close attention to his message as they will be held responsible for it. The preacher focuses on the second verse of Hebrews, which states that by faith, the elders obtained a good report. He shares his personal journey with dyslexia and how it has affected his study of the Bible. The sermon concludes with the preacher mentioning a book he received on the exposition of Hebrews 11, which further deepened his understanding of faith.
Justification by Faith Alone - Part 2
By C.H. Spurgeon2.1K46:33GEN 15:6MAT 6:33ROM 5:19ROM 8:18GAL 3:7EPH 1:62TI 3:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of understanding that entering into a relationship with God does not mean an end to troubles and challenges. He uses the example of Abraham to illustrate this point. Despite being justified and blessed by God, Abraham was informed that his descendants would face oppression and affliction for four hundred years. The preacher emphasizes the need for believers to have faith in God's covenant, even in the midst of trials. He also highlights the significance of focusing on Jesus and growing in grace and knowledge of Him.
Called-Justifed
By John Piper2.0K32:17GEN 15:6ROM 3:28ROM 4:3JAS 2:20In this sermon, Dr. Piper discusses the concept of rewards in heaven based on the degree of holiness achieved on earth. He emphasizes that this life is a preparation for eternity and that some people prepare themselves to be big lights while others prepare themselves to be little lights, depending on their delight in God's glory. He references Romans 4:4-5 to explain that justification is not achieved through works, but through faith in God. He also compares the definition of works in Paul's writings versus James' writings, highlighting that works for James are the fruit of faith, while works for Paul are what one does without faith.
Christ Came to Seek and Save
By Rolfe Barnard1.9K42:32GEN 12:1GEN 15:6MAT 6:33LUK 19:1JHN 11:43ROM 10:17EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being converted and experiencing a true change in one's life. He tells the story of a man who was a seeker, persistent in his search for truth, and eventually became a hearer of the word of God. This man received Christ with emotion and was completely transformed. The preacher highlights the need for emotional engagement and urges the audience to listen to God's voice through feeble human voices like his own.
(Through the Bible) Exodus 1-5
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:23:21ExpositionalGEN 50:26EXO 2:15EXO 4:1EXO 4:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is not just a passive observer of our struggles and suffering. He takes action to deliver His people from their hardships. The preacher also highlights the importance of not getting too attached to material possessions, as they can easily be taken away. Instead, our focus should be on the things of the Spirit and God's eternal kingdom. The sermon references the story of Moses and the Israelites in Egypt, where they faced oppression and hardship, but ultimately God delivered them.
(Luke) 02 - Zacharias
By Ed Miller1.6K1:12:19ZachariasGEN 5:24GEN 6:9GEN 15:6JOB 1:1MAT 6:33LUK 1:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David and Goliath and how David was able to defeat Goliath because of his impaired peripheral vision. The speaker then compares this to the surgical miracle performed by Jesus to replace the ear that Peter cut off. The speaker emphasizes that Dr. Luke, in his account of this miracle, simply states the fact without trying to rationalize it. The sermon also highlights the significance of the first chapter of Luke in breaking the four hundred years of silence from God and preparing the way for the study of Luke.
(Divine Attributes) 08 Glory to the Omnicient Only Wise God
By Denny Kenaston1.5K1:03:20Character Of GodGEN 15:6ISA 40:13ROM 11:33In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom from God. He encourages the audience to pursue wisdom as diligently as one would search for hidden treasures. By engaging their hearts and surrendering their lives to God, they can understand the fear of the Lord and gain knowledge of God. Brother Denny reminds the listeners that God is omniscient and holds infinite wisdom, so it is crucial to seek His guidance in order to live a fulfilling life. He also highlights the significance of the Spirit of God working through the Word of God to pierce people's hearts and bring about true transformation.
David Davis - Israel and the Endtimes
By David Davis1.5K23:33GEN 12:1GEN 15:6MAT 24:4ACT 3:25ROM 11:25This sermon focuses on the return of God's presence to Mount Carmel, with Jews and Arabs turning to the Lord, communities being transformed, and the anticipation of significant events in the Jezreel Valley. It delves into the importance of understanding God's work in Israel and the nations, especially in the context of end times prophecy, emphasizing the need for prayer, revival, and standing with Israel.
Characteristics of Faith
By Dennis Kinlaw1.5K47:18FaithGEN 15:6JHN 3:16ROM 14:11HEB 11:8HEB 11:13HEB 11:27In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the uncertainty of the future and the apprehension it brings. He shares a story of missionaries who claimed a valley for Jesus through their faith. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having faith and expecting God to work in our lives. He encourages listeners to have their "arms of faith" around a territory or a group of people, believing that God can bring about transformation. The sermon also mentions the example of Abraham and Sarah, who believed in God's promise of a child even in their old age. The speaker concludes by challenging listeners to reach out and claim segments of the world for Jesus, so that all may bow in redemption rather than judgment.
(Genesis) 28 - Abraham and Justification by Faith
By S. Lewis Johnson1.5K55:30Justification By FaithGEN 15:1GEN 15:4GEN 15:6JOB 9:2HAB 2:4ROM 4:5In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing the previous chapter in the Bible where Abram wins a great victory against the kings from the east and retrieves his nephew Lot. Abram refuses to take any spoils from the king of Sodom, showing his loyalty to God. The speaker then discusses the problem of how man can be just before God, referencing Job's question in the Bible. The solution is found in the words of the Apostle Paul in Romans 4:5, where faith in Jesus Christ brings righteousness, rather than trying to keep the law perfectly. The speaker emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus Christ for salvation and highlights the impossibility of keeping the law perfectly.
Driving the Stake of Righteousness
By Zeb McDaris1.3K1:05:15RighteousnessGEN 15:6PSA 106:30ROM 4:3GAL 3:6JAS 2:23In this sermon, the preacher talks about the annoyance of being constantly told about the wrongdoings of others, especially when it comes to children. He emphasizes the importance of obedience and refers to the story of Saul, who disobeyed God's commands and faced consequences. The preacher also mentions the boldness of Phineas, who took action and was rewarded by God. He then discusses the concept of land grants and relates it to our identity as friends of something greater than ourselves. Overall, the sermon highlights the need for belief, obedience, and boldness in our relationship with God.
Trust
By Jim Cymbala1.3K18:25TrustGEN 15:6PSA 85:8MAT 6:25MRK 6:6MRK 11:22JHN 14:1HEB 13:5In this sermon, the preacher shares his personal experience of needing a large sum of money within a short period of time. He talks about feeling anxious and panicky, but also emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and not being anxious about anything. The preacher encourages the congregation to pray and bring their needs to God with thanksgiving, and promises that when they do, they will experience the peace of God. He also highlights the significance of faith in pleasing God and urges the listeners to trust in God's past faithfulness as they face current challenges.
(Covenant Series) 2. Abraham
By Al Whittinghill1.3K52:44Covenant SeriesGEN 15:6JHN 8:56ROM 4:3GAL 3:6JAS 2:23REV 1:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of a covenant between God and Abram (later known as Abraham). The speaker explains that in a covenant, both parties typically have something to offer, but Abram had nothing to give. Instead, God put Abram to sleep and walked through the split animals in his place, symbolizing an unequal covenant where God is the one who gives everything. The speaker emphasizes that all God wants from us is our love and acceptance of his covenant.
Warnock and Chad Stendal - 10-21-95 (Has a Few Missing Parts)
By George Warnock1.2K45:48SeminarGEN 15:6MAT 5:3ROM 5:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being vessels of mercy in the world. They highlight the need for songs of the Lord, songs of His grace and mercy, to be shared freely without copyright. The speaker also discusses the concept of waiting for God's appointed time, using the example of the vision that will come at the right moment. They encourage listeners to be patient and faithful in the midst of evil and darkness, trusting that God will fulfill His promises in His perfect timing. The sermon references the story of Israel's deliverance from Egypt and the prophets' cries of "how long" as examples of God's timing and preparation.
Abraham and Rehab
By Alistair Begg1.2K34:45AbrahamGEN 15:6MAT 6:33JAS 2:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of God's promise to Abraham and how Abraham responded in faith. God appeared to Abraham and promised him that he would have countless descendants. Despite being childless, Abraham believed God's promise. The preacher emphasizes the importance of genuine faith that is accompanied by actions and good deeds. He also highlights the practical nature of the book of James, which exposes false faith and emphasizes the need for evidence of faith through deeds.
Galatians Chapter 3 (Part 1)
By Chip Brogden1.2K32:55ExpositionalGEN 15:6MAT 6:33GAL 2:20GAL 3:5GAL 3:17COL 2:3HEB 12:2In this video, Chip Brogdon continues his study in the book of Galatians. He begins by discussing the concept of true freedom in Christ, which is the ability to choose not to do things that may be permissible but not beneficial. He then moves on to Galatians chapter 3, where Paul admonishes the Galatians for being distracted from the simplicity of Christ and being bewitched into following other teachings. The video ends with a call to focus on Jesus Christ and his crucifixion as the foundation of our faith.
The Spirit 05 gen.22: Quench Not
By Alden Gannett1.1K45:16QuenchingGEN 15:6DEU 8:1DEU 8:6MAT 6:331TH 5:17In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the story of Abraham and his faith in God's promise. The preacher emphasizes the simplicity of the gospel and the basis of Abraham's faith, which was the statement that his seed would be as numerous as the stars. The preacher also references Deuteronomy 8, where God reviews His experience with the Israelites in the wilderness and tests their obedience. The sermon highlights Abraham's immediate and unwavering obedience to God's command to sacrifice his son Isaac, without any hesitation or reluctance.
Justified by Faith
By Brian Brodersen1.1K54:49JustificationGEN 15:6PSA 32:1MAT 6:33ROM 3:24ROM 4:5GAL 2:16In this sermon on Romans, the preacher delves into the doctrine of justification by faith. He emphasizes that through God's grace and the redemption found in Christ Jesus, believers are justified freely. The preacher reflects on his past approach of focusing on the failures and shortcomings of Christians, but now understands the importance of being secure in God's grace and love. He highlights the need to always turn to Scripture as the final authority in matters of faith and morality.
(Romans) Believing Not Working
By Brian Brodersen1.0K49:50GEN 15:6MAT 7:28ROM 4:2EPH 2:8TIT 3:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the idea that people are inherently good and that doing one's best is enough for salvation. He shares a personal anecdote about receiving a massage as a birthday gift from his daughter. The preacher also mentions a missionary named Frank who questioned whether God would send certain people to hell. He then goes on to explain that everyone is without excuse and that even those who have never heard the gospel still have knowledge of a Creator. The preacher concludes by stating that Paul's message of justification by faith is not in conflict with the Old Testament and seeks to clear up Jewish misunderstandings.
The God of Abraham
By Robert Constable91640:06AbrahamGEN 12:1GEN 13:2GEN 13:14GEN 15:1GEN 15:6GEN 15:18MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Abram (later known as Abraham) and his encounter with God. Abram receives a message from God to leave his family and go to a place that God will show him. Despite the uncertainty and questions from his family, Abram obeys God's command. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being honest and open with God, sharing a personal anecdote about his son's struggle with God's presence in his life. The sermon also highlights the faith and trust displayed by Abram and his descendants, as they experience various encounters with God throughout the book of Genesis.
Three Important Words
By Zac Poonen82655:16GEN 15:6PSA 73:25MAT 16:18JHN 4:23HEB 13:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of studying the scriptures diligently to understand the true meanings of key words like 'believe,' 'worship,' and 'church.' It highlights the significance of surrendering all that is precious to us to God as an act of worship, trusting in His promises, and being part of the church that Jesus is building, where the gates of Hades cannot prevail.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness - This I conceive to be one of the most important passages in the whole Old Testament. It properly contains and specifies that doctrine of justification by faith which engrosses so considerable a share of the epistles of St. Paul, and at the foundation of which is the atonement made by the Son of God: And he (Abram) believed האמן heemin, he put faith) in Jehovah, ויחשבה לו vaiyachshebeita lo, and he counted it - the faith he put in Jehovah, to Him for righteousness, צדקה tsedakah, or justification; though there was no act in the case but that of the mind and heart, no work of any kind. Hence the doctrine of justification by faith, without any merit of works; for in this case there could be none - no works of Abram which could merit the salvation of the whole human race. It was the promise of God which he credited, and in the blessedness of which he became a partaker through faith. See at Gen 15:19 (note); see also on Romans 4 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he believed in the Lord,.... The Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan are,"in the Word of the Lord;''in the essential Word of the Lord, in Christ the Lord his righteousness; he believed in the promise of God, that he should have a seed, and a very numerous one; he believed that the Messiah would spring from his seed; he believed in him as his Saviour and Redeemer; he believed in him for righteousness, and he believed in his righteousness as justifying him before God: and he counted it to him for righteousness; not the act of his faith, but the object of it; and not the promise he believed, but what was promised, and his faith received, even Christ and his righteousness this was imputed to him without works, and while he was an uncircumcised person, for the proof of which the apostle produces this passage, Rom 4:3; wherefore this is not to be understood of any action of his being esteemed and accounted a righteous one, and he pronounced and acknowledged a righteous person on account of it; for Abram was not justified before God by his own works, but by the righteousness of faith, as all that believe are, that is, by the righteousness of Christ revealed to faith, and received by it: what is imputed is without a man, and the imputation of it depends upon the will of another; such the righteousness of Christ without works imputed by God the Father. This is the first time we read of believing, and as early do we hear of imputed righteousness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:6 And Abram believed: God made his covenant with a believer; the statement does not indicate when Abram came to faith. The Hebrew text does not link Abram’s belief with the promise of the stars; it just says parenthetically that Abram believed God. Abram already had faith; his departure from Ur was his first great act that demonstrated it (see Heb 11:8-10). • God counted him as righteous because of his faith: This central statement about Abram’s saving faith is quoted three times in the New Testament (Rom 4:3; Gal 3:6; Jas 2:23) to support the doctrine of righteousness before God by faith (see also Rom 4:22-23).