Experiencing Israel: Beersheba
This morning, Don and Cindy Martz joined us again. They picked back up on their trip to Israel, this time stopping in a place we read a lot about in Genesis… Beersheba.
We read and/or referenced the following scriptures:
Genesis 12
Genesis 11:30
Genesis 15:18-21
Genesis 17:19
Genesis 21:18, 22-31
Genesis 12:1-2
Genesis 26:23-24
Genesis 46:1-6
Genesis 25:24-25
Genesis 29-3
Ruth 4:1-2
Numbers 20
Last time the Martz’s were here, they gave us homework. We were to find the seven promises God made to Abram.
There are two kinds of covenants in the Bible:
Conditional Covenant - God promises to grant special blessings to man if man fulfills certain conditions proposed in the covenant. (Ex: If you obey me, I will bless you.. or.. If you disobey me, I will punish you).
Unconditional Covenant - A sovereign act of God whereby He unconditionally obligates Himself to bring to pass certain things for the covenanted people, purely by His grace. (Ex: I will, no matter what.)
The significance of Beersheba:
Abraham's Covenant: Abraham made a covenant with Abimelech at Beersheba, establishing a well and swearing an oath (Genesis 21:22-34).
Isaac's Encounter: Isaac settled in Beersheba and had a significant encounter with God, reaffirming the covenant made with Abraham (Genesis 26:23-25).
Jacob's Journey: Jacob stopped at Beersheba while on his way to Egypt, where God spoke to him in a vision (Genesis 46:1-4).
The Well of Beersheba: The name Beersheba means "well of the oath," reflecting its importance as a site of treaties and agreements (Genesis 21:31).
Judges' Reference: Beersheba is mentioned as the southernmost boundary of Israel during the time of the judges (Judges 20:1).
Prophetic Significance: The prophet Amos referred to Beersheba in his messages, highlighting its role in Israel's history (Amos 5:5).
David's Influence: King David's reign extended to Beersheba, marking it as a significant city in his kingdom (2 Samuel 24:2).
Cultural Importance: Beersheba served as a cultural and administrative center in ancient Israel, influencing trade and governance.
New Testament Mention: Beersheba is referenced in the New Testament, indicating its lasting significance in biblical history (Acts 8:26).
Modern Archaeology: Archaeological findings in Beersheba provide insights into its historical and biblical relevance.
Don and Cindy shared many photos of the archeological findings they were able to see during their trip to Israel.
We are looking forward to the next time Don and Cindy come back (June 1, 2025). They will be taking us back to Israel to talk about end times prophecy.
