Genesis 22:5

"Stay here with the donkey," Abraham told his servants. "The boy and I will go over there to worship, and then we will return to you."

Study Bible

Stay here with the donkey
This phrase sets the stage for a moment of profound faith and obedience. The Hebrew word for "stay" (שְׁבוּ) implies a command to remain in place, suggesting a temporary pause in the journey. Abraham's instruction to his servants to stay with the donkey indicates a separation between the mundane and the sacred. The donkey, a common beast of burden, symbolizes the earthly concerns that must be left behind as Abraham and Isaac approach a divine encounter. This separation underscores the need for focus and dedication when approaching God.

while the boy and I go over there
The phrase "the boy and I" highlights the intimate relationship between Abraham and Isaac. The Hebrew word for "boy" (נַעַר) can refer to a young man, indicating Isaac's youth and vulnerability. The act of "going over there" signifies a deliberate movement towards a specific place chosen by God. This journey is not just physical but spiritual, as Abraham and Isaac move towards an act of worship that will test their faith and obedience. The phrase suggests a purposeful and determined action, reflecting Abraham's unwavering trust in God's plan.

We will worship
The Hebrew word for "worship" (נִשְׁתַּחֲוֶה) conveys the idea of bowing down or prostrating oneself in reverence. This act of worship is central to the narrative, as it represents Abraham's submission to God's will. Worship, in this context, is not merely a ritual but an expression of faith and devotion. Abraham's declaration of worship indicates his recognition of God's sovereignty and his willingness to surrender everything, even his beloved son, to God's purpose. This moment foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice and points to the heart of true worship—complete trust and obedience to God.

and then we will return to you
This statement is a profound expression of faith. Despite knowing God's command to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham confidently asserts that "we will return." The Hebrew verb for "return" (נָשׁוּב) suggests a coming back to the original state or place. Abraham's faith in God's promise that Isaac would be the heir through whom God's covenant would be fulfilled is unwavering. This assurance reflects Abraham's belief in God's power to fulfill His promises, even in seemingly impossible circumstances. It is a testament to the hope and trust that believers are called to have in God's faithfulness and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelites, known for his faith and obedience to God. In this passage, he is preparing to obey God's command to sacrifice his son Isaac.

2. Isaac
Abraham's son, the child of promise through whom God had promised to establish a great nation.

3. Young Men
Servants accompanying Abraham and Isaac on their journey to the place of sacrifice.

4. The Place of Sacrifice
Although not named in this verse, it is later identified as Mount Moriah, a significant location in biblical history.

5. Worship
Abraham's act of obedience is described as worship, highlighting the depth of his faith and reverence for God.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Abraham's statement, "We will worship, and then we will return to you," demonstrates his faith in God's promises, even when circumstances seem contrary.

Obedience as Worship
True worship involves obedience to God's commands, even when it requires personal sacrifice.

Trust in God's Promises
Abraham's confidence that both he and Isaac would return reflects a deep trust in God's faithfulness and promises.

Preparation for Worship
Abraham's preparation for worship included leaving behind distractions and focusing solely on God, a model for our own worship practices.

Community in Faith
Abraham's inclusion of his servants in the journey, even though they stayed behind, shows the importance of community in our faith journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's statement in Genesis 22:5 reflect his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this level of faith in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Abraham's obedience serve as an example of worship, and how can we incorporate obedience into our worship today?

3. How does the concept of "faith in action" as demonstrated by Abraham challenge us to live out our faith in practical ways?

4. What can we learn from Abraham's preparation for worship about removing distractions and focusing on God in our own worship practices?

5. How does the involvement of Abraham's servants in this journey illustrate the role of community in our faith, and how can we foster a supportive faith community in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:17-19
This passage in the New Testament reflects on Abraham's faith, emphasizing his belief that God could raise Isaac from the dead, which aligns with his statement of faith in Genesis 22:5.

James 2:21-23
James discusses how Abraham's faith was made complete by his actions, using this event as a prime example of faith in action.

Romans 4:18-21
Paul speaks of Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promises, which is evident in his confident statement in Genesis 22:5.