People who Desires Co-existence (Abraham and Lot) Basic 6 Christian Religious Studies (CRS) Lesson Note

DEFINITION OF COEXISTENCE (Review)

Coexistence means living together peacefully and harmoniously despite differences, without fighting or quarreling.

THE STORY OF ABRAHAM AND LOT (Genesis 13)

Background:

• Abraham (originally called Abram) was Lot’s uncle
• Lot was the son of Abraham’s deceased brother
• Abraham took care of Lot like his own son
• Both were very rich with livestock, silver, and gold
• They traveled together from Egypt back to Canaan

The Problem (Genesis 13:5-7):

• Both Abraham and Lot had many animals (sheep, goats, cattle)
• The land could not support both their herds together
• There wasn’t enough grass and water for all the animals
• Their herdsmen (workers) began to QUARREL and FIGHT
• The Canaanites and Perizzites were also living in the land
• The fighting was shameful before the other nations

Abraham’s Wise Solution (Genesis 13:8-9):

• Abraham called Lot and said:
  • “Let there be no strife between you and me”
  • “Let there be no strife between your herdsmen and mine”
  • “For we are brothers/family”
• Abraham suggested they SEPARATE to avoid more conflict
• Abraham gave Lot FIRST CHOICE of land
• Abraham said: “If you go left, I’ll go right; if you go right, I’ll go left”
• This was generous because Abraham was older and should have chosen first

Lot’s Choice (Genesis 13:10-13):

• Lot looked and saw the Jordan Valley
• It was well-watered, like the garden of Eden
• Lot chose the BEST land for himself
• He moved toward Sodom
• He was thinking only of himself (selfish)
• Sodom was a wicked city

Abraham’s Portion (Genesis 13:14-18):

• Abraham took what was left
• He settled in Canaan
• After Lot left, God spoke to Abraham
• God promised to give Abraham ALL the land he could see
• God blessed Abraham with descendants as numerous as dust
• God rewarded Abraham’s unselfishness

Later Events:

• Lot got into trouble living in Sodom
• Abraham had to rescue Lot when he was captured (Genesis 14)
• Lot’s family suffered because of his selfish choice
• Abraham continued to be blessed

HOW PEOPLE CAN CO-EXIST WITHOUT DISAGREEMENT

Lessons from Abraham and Lot:

1. Address Problems Quickly

• Don’t let conflicts grow
• Talk about issues immediately
• Abraham didn’t wait until things got worse

2. Communicate Peacefully

• Use calm, respectful words
• Abraham didn’t shout or blame
• He approached Lot gently

3. Remember Your Relationships

• Abraham said “we are brothers”
• Value family and friendship over things
• Relationships are more important than possessions

4. Be Willing to Compromise

• Abraham suggested separation
• Sometimes we must give up something for peace
• Find middle ground

5. Be Generous and Unselfish

• Give others first choice
• Don’t always insist on the best for yourself
• Trust God to provide for you

6. Think of Others’ Needs

• Consider how your actions affect others
• Don’t be greedy
• Share resources fairly

7. Show Respect for Elders

• Abraham was older but didn’t force his will
• Respect brings peace
• Authority doesn’t mean being harsh

8. Trust God’s Provision

• Abraham didn’t worry about getting less
• He knew God would take care of him
• Faith removes fear and greed

9. Avoid Shame Before Others

• Abraham mentioned the Canaanites watching
• Our conflicts should not dishonor God
• Be a good witness

10. Choose Peace Over Possessions

• Abraham valued peace more than land
• Material things are temporary
• Peace is priceless

11. Be Proactive

• Don’t wait for problems to solve themselves
• Take initiative to make peace
• Be the peacemaker

12. Set Good Examples

• Leaders should show the way
• Abraham modeled unselfishness
• Others learn from our actions

PRACTICAL WAYS TO CO-EXIST WITHOUT DISAGREEMENT

In the Family:

• Share toys and belongings
• Take turns choosing
• Help with chores
• Respect each other’s space
• Forgive quickly

In School:

• Share learning materials
• Take turns being first
• Help classmates
• Don’t gossip or fight
• Respect teachers

In the Community:

• Be a good neighbor
• Don’t make noise late at night
• Keep common areas clean
• Greet everyone politely
• Help those in need

In the Church:

• Serve together
• Don’t compete
• Support leaders
• Work as a team
• Pray for unity

Important Bible Verses:

• Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men”
• Hebrews 12:14 – “Pursue peace with all people”
• Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers”

COMPARISON: ABRAHAM vs LOT

The Result:

• Abraham’s generosity led to greater blessings
• Lot’s selfishness led to problems
• Choosing peace brings God’s favor