Genesis 22, the 1st 19 verses discibes the well known events leading to Abraham almost sacrificing his son, Issac on an alter. I would copy the text, but you can, and I would hope you would read it from your Bible. Please do not take my word on any part of it.

However, my point of this post is to consider, just why would God put Abraham through such an ordeal. I have actually heard some say that it was to allow Abraham to prove his faith and obedience to God.

That reason gets a big hole in it with one simple question. What would make anyone think God had any doubts about the outcome. Before He formed the earth, He knew Abraham would not fail Him.

So, what was His purpose? Actually, He had three reasons. After you read this, I am sure you’ll agree He accomplished all three.

First, Abraham confirmed he would do it. It removed all of Abrahams doubt. Also, It gave God a reason to reward him before men.

As a sidenote, child sacrifice was common in that day. So, secondly, God established that that Abraham was just as obedient to God as the others were to the idles.

Finally, and most important, he set the example for the future. Of course, Abraham had no idea at the time, but he was painting a picture of the sacrifice of God offering his Son, Jesus as a sacrifice for us.

For sure, God did know the outcome ahead of time, but it does make me wonder. If Abraham chose not to be obedient, just what repercussions would there have been? It is one of those questions I would just as soon never know the answer to.

However, you and I both know, the picture certainly verifies Christian beliefs, even for those who try to deny it.