One of the central figures of the Bible is Abraham. Like most men in ancient times, he longed for a son and heir who would carry on his name. In Abraham's case, however, that desire had become the deepest desire of his heart. Finally, beyond all hope, a son was born to him. He now had all he had ever wanted. Then God asked him to give it all up...
"Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about." - Genesis 22:2 (NIV)
This was the ultimate test. Isaac was now everything to Abraham, as God's call makes clear. He does not refer to the boy as "Isaac", but as "your son, your only son, whom you love". Abraham's affection had become adoration. Previously, Abraham's meaning in life had been dependent on God's word. Now it was becoming dependent on Isaac's love and well-being.
The centre of Abraham's life was shifting. God was not saying you cannot love your son, but that you must not turn a loved one into a counterfeit god...
Isaac was a wonderful gift to Abraham, but he was not safe to have and hold until Abraham was willing to put God first. As long as Abraham never had to choose between his son and obedience to God, he could not see that his love was becoming idolatrous.
- Timothy Keller, Counterfeit Gods
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