Catechesis

Genesis 18:16-20 HCSB

The literary device of contrasts is used throughout the Bible to teach. Jesus used it with the examples of the 5 wise and 5 foolish virgins, the man who built his house on sand and the one who built on solid rock, and the two men who went to the Temple to pray, one self-righteous Pharisee and one humble man. In Genesis, the contrast is also shown between Abraham’s faith and righteousness, and the evil and depravity of the twin cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham is honored as the father of the faith, a catechist or teacher of the faith. But just as in his day, parents will either expose their children to the faith which leads to salvation, or let them drift into unbelief that leads to worldly living and the horrible fate of eternal judgment.

Abraham Fought For His Surrounding Communities.

A confederation of Mesopotamian kings of the east warred with the 5 Canaanite kings, capturing Abraham’s nephew Lot. Abraham pursued the invaders with his 318 soldiers, rescuing the captives and their possessions. In rescuing Lot, he also rescued Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham had earned the respect of all of the residents. He prayed for and interceded for the righteous in Sodom and Gomorrah, being a visible example of what God desired.

Abraham Lived Among The Surrounding Communities.

Even as a man of influence an wealth, Abraham lived as a pilgrim and sojourner, living in a tent. God promised this childless nomad that he would become the father of many nations, and today is claimed by Jews, Arabs and some Semitic peoples as their progenitor. This man of faith, prophet and worshipper of God taught his household, and his generations were thus saved from idolatry by continuing this dedicated teaching of the faith to their children. Parents today need to bring their children to Sunday School to expose them to the faith and righteousness of God, saving them from the failures of society and the future judgment against all sinners.