The Structure of the Bible 4: The Covenant with Abraham

In Genesis12 and following Abraham lives in Ur of the Chaldees, a place known for moon worshippers.  He is approached by El Shaddai to create a new covenant.

• The epiphany of God as El Shaddai (Gen 17), meaning 'The Nourisher, Benefactor”, the succourer as a mother to a baby. This is not a menacing God but one who will support and give life and meaning.
• El Shaddai establishes a new covenant with Abraham and his descendence, making good the promise that Israel will be the promised people (Gen 17). Circumcision is to be the outward sign of the covenant. Abraham is the first in the line of prophets (Gen 20/7).
• The promise made is redemption through the seed of Abraham.
• However the prople of Israel apostasise and lose faith in the one God (Josh 24).
• The curse is the destuction of Sodom & Gomorra (Gen 19).
• Promise of the land of Canaan