Genesis 22 records one of the most troubling stories in the entire Bible. Why? Genesis 22:2 reports the voice of God either telling or tempting Moses to sacrifice his son, Isaac. I find that report inconsistent with the character of God revealed by the overall story of the Bible and incompatible with specific teachings I hold in high esteem. Here are some examples:
- "God is faithful..." (1 Corinthians 1:9a)
- "He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he." (Deuteronomy 32:4)
- "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone..." (James 1:13)
January 9 Readings: Genesis 20-21, Psalm 15
"LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart..." (Psalm 15:1-2)
The short answer to the psalmist's questions is "NO ONE." No one is blameless. No one is 100% righteous. So no one may dwell in the LORD's sacred tent. Nobody may live on the LORD's holy mountain.
Still...I see the wisdom sayings in 15:2-5 as useful. They are targets--goals for which to strive. It would be foolish to aim for a blame-filled walk or unrighteous doings. It would be sad to harbor lies in the heart intentionally, then to speak them. It would be wrong to plan beforehand to slander and to do wrong to a neighbor. No! Aim at these instead: Honor God-fearing people. Keep promises made no matter what.
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