Topical Encyclopedia Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible, renowned for his faith and obedience to God. His character is marked by a notable independence, which is evident in various aspects of his life and decisions. This independence is not merely a personal trait but is deeply intertwined with his faith and trust in God's promises.Call and Departure from Haran Abraham's independence is first prominently displayed when he responds to God's call to leave his homeland. In Genesis 12:1-4 , God instructs Abram, "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you." Despite the uncertainties and the comfort of his established life in Haran, Abram's willingness to depart demonstrates a decisive independence. He does not rely on the security of his familial ties or the familiarity of his surroundings but trusts in God's guidance. Separation from Lot Another instance of Abraham's independence is seen in his relationship with his nephew Lot. As their herds and flocks grew, disputes arose between their herdsmen. In Genesis 13:8-9 , Abram proposes a solution: "Please let there be no strife between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are brothers. Is not the whole land before you? Please separate from me. If you go to the left, I will go to the right; if you go to the right, I will go to the left." Abram's willingness to separate from Lot, allowing him to choose first, reflects his independence and confidence in God's provision, rather than clinging to familial alliances for security. Intercession for Sodom Abraham's independence is also evident in his bold intercession for Sodom. In Genesis 18:22-33 , Abraham approaches God with a series of questions, advocating for the righteous within the city. His willingness to engage in dialogue with God, questioning and negotiating, showcases a unique independence in his relationship with the Divine. Abraham does not passively accept the impending judgment but actively seeks to understand and influence the outcome, demonstrating a mature and independent faith. Refusal of the King of Sodom's Offer After rescuing Lot and defeating the kings, Abraham encounters the king of Sodom, who offers him the spoils of war. In Genesis 14:22-23 , Abraham responds, "I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, that I will not accept even a thread, or a strap of a sandal, or anything that belongs to you, lest you should say, 'I have made Abram rich.'" This refusal underscores Abraham's independence from worldly wealth and human alliances, relying solely on God's promise to bless him. Sacrifice of Isaac Perhaps the most profound demonstration of Abraham's independence is his willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac, as commanded by God. In Genesis 22:1-3 , God tests Abraham, and he responds without hesitation, preparing to offer Isaac as a burnt offering. This act of obedience, despite its personal cost, highlights Abraham's independence from his own desires and emotions, prioritizing his commitment to God above all else. Abraham's life is a testament to an independence that is deeply rooted in faith and trust in God. His actions and decisions consistently reflect a character that is not swayed by external pressures or personal gain but is steadfastly aligned with divine direction and promise. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 14:23That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is yours, lest you should say, I have made Abram rich: Nave's Topical Index Genesis 23:6-16 Library Author's Preface. None Greater than John the Baptist, Yet. . . "The Light of Life" Stedfastness in the Old Paths. Natural Love. The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Galatians Messiah's Entrance into Jerusalem Private Property and the Common Good Paragraphs from Notable Speeches A Successful Man of Affairs. Resources Who are the seed of Abraham? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does God refer to Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? | GotQuestions.org What is the Testament of Abraham? | GotQuestions.org Abraham: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Abraham is Blessed by Melchizedek Abraham: Age of, at Different Periods Abraham: Ancestors of, Idolatrous Abraham: Deferring to Lot, Chooses Hebron Abraham: He Purchases a Place for Her Burial, and Buries Her in a Cave Abraham: His Questions About the Destruction of the Righteous and Wicked in Sodom Abraham: How Regarded by his Descendants Abraham: Independence of, in Character Abraham: Lives in Gerar; Deceives Abimelech Concerning Sarah, his Wife Abraham: Lives in Ur, But Removes to Haran Abraham: Provides a Wife for Isaac Abraham: Sarah, his Wife, Dies Abraham: Sends Hagar and Ishmael Away Abraham: Trial of his Faith in the offering of Isaac Abraham: Witnesses the Destruction of Sodom Miscegenation: Forbidden by Abraham Related Terms Burnt-offering (205 Occurrences) |
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