Chapter 14 introduces the first war in the Bible and marks a significant change from the previous chapters. Irish Scripture Scholar Frances Hogan highlights the human race's deterioration, the rise of tyrants, and Abram's status as a prince with allies. Abram won the first war because God was with him and because he did not hold any resentment against Lot for his previous actions.

The chapter also references Salem, which later became Jerusalem and was known as the city of peace. When Melchizedek, the King of Righteousness, met Abram, he offered him bread and wine to refresh him from his journey. Abram paid tithe to Melchizedek, acknowledging someone higher than himself, and responded differently to the King of Sodom, demonstrating the importance of keeping completely free from anything contaminated with evil.

Chapter 15 of the Book of Genesis mentions that Abram had reasons to fear revenge, but God reassured him and said, "Do not fear, for I am your shield." By opening one's heart to generosity, one opens God's heart to His generosity, and only God can provide for a child. Finally, we see the importance of truly relating to God as the creator of the universe, as it can change everything. 

Bible References:

Gen. 14:1-3 - The kings at warGen. 14:11-12 - They took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, including Lot and his possessionsGen. 14:13 - Abram had his alliesGen. 14:16-17 - King of Sodom meets Abram to collect his goodsGen. 14: 18-20 - Offering bread, wine and tithe Heb. 7:1-3 - Reference to MelchizedekGen. 14:21-23 - A different response to the King of SodomGen. 15:1 - “I am your shield”Ps. 16:5 - “portion of my inheritance”Gen. 15:2-3 - Abram had no offspringGen. 15:4 - God’s promise of an offspring to AbramGen. 15:6 - Abram put his trust in GodPs. 32:7 - The Lord is our hiding place

Irish Scripture Scholar Frances Hogan takes you through the origin story of God’s people shown to us in the Book of Genesis. Here is an opportunity to explore the early history of God’s people. With historical and Scriptural references, each session will open your eyes to the mystery of God’s creation. 

Frances Hogan: https://www.franceshogan.com/

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