Topical Encyclopedia Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible, revered as the patriarch of the Israelites, Ishmaelites, Edomites, and Midianites. His life is marked by acts of faith, obedience, and notably, unselfishness. This entry explores the instances in which Abraham demonstrated unselfishness, as recorded in the Scriptures.Separation from Lot One of the most prominent examples of Abraham's unselfishness is found in his relationship with his nephew Lot. As their herds and flocks grew, strife arose between their herdsmen due to limited resources. To resolve this conflict, Abraham proposed a peaceful solution, offering Lot the first choice of the land. In Genesis 13:8-9 , Abraham says, "Please let there be no contention 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." Abraham's willingness to let Lot choose first, even at the potential cost of his own prosperity, highlights his selfless character. Intercession for Sodom Another significant instance of Abraham's unselfishness is his intercession for the city of Sodom. When God revealed His plan to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah due to their wickedness, Abraham pleaded on behalf of the righteous who might be living there. In Genesis 18:23-24 , Abraham approached God and said, "Will You really sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will You really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous people who are there?" Abraham's persistent intercession, even reducing the number to ten righteous people, demonstrates his concern for others, including those he did not personally know. Sacrifice of Isaac Perhaps the most profound example of Abraham's unselfishness is his willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac, as commanded by God. In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham's faith by instructing him to offer Isaac as a burnt offering. Despite the personal cost and the emotional turmoil, Abraham obeys without hesitation. Genesis 22:3 states, "So Abraham got up early the next morning, saddled his donkey, and took along two of his servants and his son Isaac." Abraham's readiness to give up his beloved son, trusting in God's promise and provision, underscores his selfless devotion to God. Hospitality to Strangers Abraham's unselfishness is also evident in his hospitality. In Genesis 18:1-8, Abraham encounters three visitors near the great trees of Mamre. Despite the heat of the day, he hurried to meet them, offering water to wash their feet and preparing a lavish meal. His actions reflect a generous spirit and a willingness to serve others, even strangers. This act of hospitality is later revealed to be an encounter with the Lord and two angels, further emphasizing the significance of Abraham's selfless service. Throughout these narratives, Abraham's unselfishness is a recurring theme, illustrating his character as a man of faith and generosity. His actions serve as a model of selflessness, prioritizing the well-being of others and demonstrating unwavering trust in God's promises. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 13:9Is not the whole land before you? separate yourself, I pray you, from me: if you will take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if you depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 21:25-30 Library From Abraham to Egypt. Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility The Gift that Brings all Gifts Chapter xviii The Pioneer's Influence Upon a Nation's Ideals. "The Widow Woman was There. " I Kings xvii. 10 Chapter xxx The Mystery of the Cross. A Good Friday Sermon. Chapter xxiv None Greater than John the Baptist, Yet. . . Resources Who was Abraham in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the blessing of Abraham? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that those who are of faith are sons of Abraham (Galatians 3:7)? | 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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