1. The Patriarchs Patriarch: male ruler, elder or leader
The 4 patriarchs of the Jewish people:
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph
All contained in Book of Genesis
Abraham called the “Father of faith”
Important to:
Christians, Jews, Muslims

2. Covenant with Abraham Covenant: a solemn agreement
Between God and His people
3 main covenants in OT
Noah, Moses, Abraham
God requires of Abraham: leave his home to go where God wishes him to go
Promises: to make Abraham a great nation
To bless him

3. Elements of the Covenant
Sign of the covenant:
Abrams name is changed
Circumcision
Blessings and Threats
If Abraham adheres to the covenant he will be greatly blessed
Threats: not from God, but because of a lack of faith

4. Abraham’s test He is asked to sacrifice Isaac
Abraham is willing to do this – but God relents when he sees that Abraham acts in faith
Isaac: a symbol of Christ; the innocent victim
The stories of the patriarchs are meant to teach us to trust God
Even in difficult times