Genesis 13: Group Study Handout

Overview

In Genesis chapter 13, Abram and Lot find themselves in a situation where their wealth in livestock leads to conflict among their herders. To resolve the strife, Abram shows remarkable humility and generosity by allowing Lot to choose the land he prefers. Lot chooses the fertile plains of Jordan, moving towards the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, which were known for their wickedness. Abram remains in Canaan, the land promised to him by God. After Lot departs, God reaffirms His promise to Abram, assuring him that his descendants will inherit the land, which extends far beyond what Abram can currently see. This chapter emphasizes themes of faith, land, and divine promise, showing Abram's trust in God over material wealth.

Key verse

“Yahweh said to Abram, after Lot was separated from him, “Now, lift up your eyes, and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward,”

Genesis 13:14 (WEB)

Outline

1. Genesis 13:1–4 Abram Returns to Canaan
2. Genesis 13:5–7 Conflict Arises Between Herdsmen
3. Genesis 13:8–9 Abram Proposes Separation
4. Genesis 13:10–11 Lot Chooses the Jordan Plain
5. Genesis 13:12–13 Lot's Move Toward Wickedness
6. Genesis 13:14–17 God Renews His Promise to Abram
7. Genesis 13:18 Abram Settles and Worships

Discussion questions

1. In v2, what does the text say about Abram's wealth?
2. What do Lot's herdsmen and Abram's herdsmen experience in v7?
3. Abram's offer to Lot in vv. 8-9: what does this indicate about Abram's priorities?
4. The description of the men of Sodom in v13: how does this contrast with Abram's actions?
5. When have you prioritized peace in a situation like Abram in v8?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 13: Genesis 12, Genesis 28, Genesis 26.

Before next time: read Genesis 14.