Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionAbraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible, revered as the patriarch of the Israelite nation and a model of faith and obedience to God. His account is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, where he is depicted as a man chosen by God to establish a covenant that would have lasting implications for his descendants and the world. Background and Call Abraham was born in Ur of the Chaldeans, a city in ancient Mesopotamia. He was the son of Terah and had two brothers, Nahor and Haran. The narrative of Abraham begins in Genesis 12, where God calls him to leave his homeland and journey to a land that He would show him. This call is significant as it marks the beginning of God's covenant relationship with Abraham and his descendants. Genesis 12:1-3 records God's promise: "Go from your country, your people, and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing." Faith and Obedience Abraham's life is characterized by his faith and obedience to God. Despite the uncertainties and challenges he faced, Abraham consistently demonstrated trust in God's promises. One of the most notable examples of his faith is found in Genesis 15:6 , where it is written, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This verse is foundational in understanding the biblical concept of faith and righteousness. Covenant and Promises God's covenant with Abraham is a central theme in his account. In Genesis 17, God reaffirms His covenant, changing Abram's name to Abraham, meaning "father of many nations," and promising that he would be the ancestor of a multitude of nations. The sign of this covenant was circumcision, which Abraham faithfully observed. Genesis 17:4-5 states, "As for Me, this is My covenant with you: You will be the father of many nations. No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations." Family and Descendants Abraham's family plays a crucial role in the unfolding of God's plan. His wife, Sarah, initially barren, miraculously gives birth to Isaac, the child of promise, in her old age. This event is a testament to God's faithfulness and power. Genesis 21:1-2 records, "Now the LORD attended to Sarah as He had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what He had promised. So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him." Abraham's other son, Ishmael, born to Hagar, Sarah's maidservant, also becomes the father of a great nation, fulfilling God's promise to make Abraham the father of many nations. Despite the complex family dynamics, Abraham's role as a patriarch is pivotal in the biblical narrative. Testing and Sacrifice One of the most profound tests of Abraham's faith is the command to sacrifice his son Isaac. In Genesis 22, God instructs Abraham to offer Isaac as a burnt offering on Mount Moriah. Abraham's willingness to obey, even in this heart-wrenching command, exemplifies his unwavering faith. At the last moment, God intervenes, providing a ram as a substitute sacrifice. This event foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ and highlights the theme of substitutionary atonement. Genesis 22:12 reveals God's acknowledgment of Abraham's faith: "Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him," said the angel, "for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from Me." Legacy Abraham's legacy is profound and enduring. He is regarded as the father of the Jewish nation, and his faith is celebrated in the New Testament as an example for all believers. Romans 4:16 emphasizes this: "Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may rest on grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham's offspring—not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all." Abraham's life and faith continue to inspire and instruct believers in their walk with God. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 18:19For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring on Abraham that which he has spoken of him. Nave's Topical Index Library The Story of Hagar and Ishmael The Call of Abraham From Abraham to Egypt. Meditations for Household Piety. The Great Duty of Family Religion Abraham --The Father of the Faithful. Family Religion. Abraham's Faith Abraham Abraham's Obedience Resources Are family devotions important? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.org Should there be hierarchy in the family? | GotQuestions.org Family: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Family of Saints: Be Duly Regulated Family of Saints: Deceivers and Liars should be Removed From Family of Saints: Live in Mutual Forbearance Family of Saints: Live in Unity Family of Saints: Punishment of Irreligious Family of Saints: Rejoice Together Before God Family of Saints: should be Taught God's Word Family of Saints: Warned Against Departing from God Family of Saints: Worship God Together Family: Good: Jailor of Philippi Family: Good: Lazarus of Bethany Family: Infelicity in David and Michal Family: Infelicity in Elkanah, on Account of Bigamic Feuds Family: Infelicity in Moses and Zipporah Family: Infelicity In of Abraham, on Account of Hagar Family: Infelicity In of Isaac, on Account of the Disagreement Between Jacob and Esau Family: Infelicity In of Jacob, the Bigamic Jealousy Between Leah and Rachel Family: Persian, Domestic Customs Related Terms |
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