Topical Encyclopedia The concept of God's condescension is profoundly illustrated in the biblical narrative of His covenant with Abraham. This divine act of grace and humility is a cornerstone of biblical theology, demonstrating God's willingness to engage with humanity on a personal and relational level. The covenant with Abraham marks a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, highlighting His sovereign initiative and faithfulness.Background and Context The account of God's covenant with Abraham is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 12 through 17. Abraham, originally named Abram, is called by God to leave his homeland and journey to a land that God would show him. This call is accompanied by promises that form the basis of the covenant: "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing" (Genesis 12:2). The Nature of the Covenant The covenant with Abraham is characterized by several key elements: 1. Divine Initiative: The covenant is initiated by God, underscoring His sovereignty and grace. Abraham does not seek out God; rather, God calls Abraham and establishes the covenant unilaterally. 2. Promises of Blessing: The covenant includes promises of land, descendants, and blessing. God assures Abraham, "To your descendants I will give this land" (Genesis 12:7), and later, "Look now to the heavens and count the stars, if you are able... So shall your offspring be" (Genesis 15:5). 3. Sign of the Covenant: The covenant is ratified through a physical sign—circumcision. God commands Abraham, "Every male among you shall be circumcised" (Genesis 17:10), marking the covenant community and setting them apart for God's purposes. 4. Faith and Righteousness: Abraham's response to God's promises is one of faith, which is counted to him as righteousness. "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness" (Genesis 15:6). This faith is central to the covenant relationship and is later expounded upon in the New Testament as a model of faith for all believers. Theophany and Covenant Ceremony In Genesis 15, God formalizes the covenant through a theophany and a covenant ceremony. Abraham is instructed to prepare a sacrifice, and God manifests His presence through a smoking firepot and a flaming torch, passing between the pieces of the sacrifice. This act signifies God's binding commitment to the covenant, as He declares, "On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram" (Genesis 15:18). Covenant Expansion and Name Change In Genesis 17, God reaffirms and expands the covenant, changing Abram's name to Abraham, meaning "father of many nations," and Sarai's name to Sarah. God reiterates His promises, emphasizing the everlasting nature of the covenant: "I will establish My covenant as an everlasting covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you" (Genesis 17:7). Significance in Redemptive History The covenant with Abraham is foundational to the biblical narrative, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Israel and ultimately through Jesus Christ. It establishes the framework for understanding God's relationship with His people, characterized by grace, faith, and obedience. The Apostle Paul later reflects on this covenant in his epistles, highlighting its significance for both Jews and Gentiles as heirs of the promise through faith in Christ (Romans 4; Galatians 3). In summary, the condescension of God in entering into a covenant with Abraham reveals His gracious character and His commitment to redeem and bless humanity. This covenant is a testament to God's faithfulness and serves as a foundational element in the overarching account of salvation history. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 15:1-21After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am your shield, and your exceeding great reward. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 18:1-22 Library Manner of Covenanting. Effectual Calling Of the Sacraments. The Priesthood of Christ Adoption --The Spirit and the Cry Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ... The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, Israel's Hope Encouraged; A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican The Theology of St. Hilary of Poitiers. Resources What does the Bible say about women working outside the home? | GotQuestions.orgIs faith in God religulous? | GotQuestions.org What is the mystery of faith? | GotQuestions.org Condescension: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Condescension of God in Reasoning With his Creatures: Sets Forth his Reasons for Sending the Flood Condescension of God: Enters Into Covenant With Abraham Condescension of God: Expostulates With Backsliding Israel Condescension of God: Indulges Abraham's Intercession for Sodom Condescension of God: Indulges Gideon's Tests Condescension of God: Indulges Moses' Prayer to Behold his Glory Condescension of God: Invites Sinners, Saying, "Come Now, and Let Us Reason Together" Condescension of God: Reasons With Job Condescension of God: Reasons With Moses Condescension of God: Scriptures Relating To Condescension of God: Sends Flesh to the Israelites in Consequence of Their Murmuring Condescension of God: Warns Abimelech in a Dream Related Terms |
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