Day 85: Genesis 11-14
The Bible Dept.
Faith, Redemption, and Generosity
This chapter unpacks the story of Abram, focusing on his obedience to God and the separation from Lot that signifies faithfulness. It also emphasizes the theological significance of redemption through Old Testament narratives and the role of tithing as an expression of faith and generosity.
The Tower of Babel wasn’t just a story about human pride — it’s about humanity’s desire to build their own identity apart from God. But what if God’s solution wasn’t punishment, but protection? In Genesis 11-14, we see the scattering at Babel, the calling of Abram, and the beginning of a redemption plan that reverses Babel at Pentecost. If you’re on a Bible reading plan, reading the Bible in one year, or diving into daily Bible study, this episode will help you see these famous stories with fresh understanding.
✈️ Overview:
Genesis 11-14 closes the first major section of Genesis with the Tower of Babel — humanity’s attempt to make a name for themselves. God scatters the nations, not as judgment alone, but to prevent dangerous uniformity. Out of this scattering, God calls Abram, a man more interested in his brother’s legacy than his own name. We also see Abram’s faith in action, Lot’s rescue (the first biblical picture of redemption), and the introduction of tithing as Abram gives a tenth to Melchizedek.
🔎 Context Clues:
The tower builders use waterproof materials, fearing another flood. But God’s covenant had already promised otherwise — revealing humanity’s distrust. Babel’s tower was likely a ziggurat, an elevated space meant to house divine presence. In Acts 2, the scattering of Babel is reversed in an elevated upper room with wind and tongues of fire. The languages confused in Genesis are unified by the Spirit at Pentecost. And the genealogy leading to Abram hints that Sarai may have been his niece — part of a redemptive act to continue his brother’s line.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The Tower of Babel wasn’t destroyed; God simply confused their language, showing the power of disunity.
• Babel’s builders wanted uniformity — God desires unity with diversity.
• Abram’s care for his brother’s family contrasts with Ham’s selfishness in the previous narrative.
• The rescue of Lot becomes one of three key Old Testament images for redemption, alongside Ruth & Boaz and Hosea & Gomer.
• Melchizedek, a priest-king, foreshadows Jesus and establishes tithing before the Mosaic Law.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Don’t strive to make your own name great — trust God to make your name great when your heart is selfless.
• God’s desire has always been to gather the nations under His name, not ours.
• Redemption isn’t just a concept; it’s a rescue mission where God fights for His people.
• Generosity and tithing are timeless acts of trust and worship.
👉 Keep going strong on your Bible reading streak! Proud of you.
🚀 START HERE!
Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.
📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:
Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.
🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?
Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!
🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOK
Crushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.
🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAY
Our first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!
🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETING
Get NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!
👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:
📱 STAY CONNECTED:
📨 EMAIL US!
Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.
💥 MORE RESOURCES:
- Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. Essentials
- Dr. Manny Arango’s Book | Brainwashed
- Book Dr. Manny to Speak
🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!
SUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-department
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
The AI-powered Podcast Player
