Topical Bible: Families: Good: Abraham

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Topical Encyclopedia

Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible and is often regarded as a paragon of faith and obedience to God. His life and family serve as a model for understanding the dynamics of a godly family. Abraham is first introduced in Genesis 11:26, and his account unfolds primarily in Genesis 12-25. He is revered as the patriarch of the Israelites, Ishmaelites, Edomites, and Midianites, and is a key figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Divine Calling and Obedience

Abraham's journey begins with a divine call from God, who instructs him to leave his homeland and family to go to a land that God would show him. Genesis 12:1-3 records God's promise to Abraham: "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." Abraham's immediate obedience to God's call is a testament to his faith and sets a precedent for his family to follow God's will.

Family Leadership and Faith

Abraham's leadership in his family is marked by his unwavering faith in God's promises. Despite challenges and uncertainties, he consistently seeks God's guidance. In Genesis 15:6 , it is written, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This faith is foundational to his family's identity and legacy.

Covenant and Legacy

God establishes a covenant with Abraham, promising him numerous descendants and the land of Canaan. This covenant is a pivotal moment for Abraham's family, as it signifies God's enduring commitment to them. 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 Dynamics and Challenges

Abraham's family experiences various challenges, including the tension between Sarah and Hagar, and the near-sacrifice of Isaac. Despite these trials, Abraham's faith remains steadfast. His willingness to sacrifice Isaac, as commanded by God, demonstrates his ultimate trust in God's plan (Genesis 22:1-18). This act of faith is later referenced in Hebrews 11:17-19, highlighting Abraham's belief that God could raise the dead.

Intercession and Hospitality

Abraham is also noted for his intercessory role and hospitality. In Genesis 18, he pleads with God on behalf of Sodom and Gomorrah, demonstrating his concern for others and his belief in God's justice. Additionally, his hospitality to the three visitors in Genesis 18:1-8 exemplifies the values of kindness and generosity that he instilled in his family.

Influence on Future Generations

Abraham's influence extends beyond his immediate family. His faith and obedience set a standard for his descendants, including Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve tribes of Israel. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 4:11-12 , refers to Abraham as "the father of all who believe," emphasizing his role as a spiritual ancestor to all who have faith in God.

Abraham's life and family serve as a powerful example of faith, obedience, and the importance of following God's will. His legacy continues to inspire and guide families seeking to live according to biblical principles.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 18:19
For 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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Abraham --The Father of the Faithful.
... "In thee shall all the families of the ... the people who lived there were so very wicked,
and Abraham prayed Him to spare them if even ten good men could be ...
/.../lathbury/childs story of the bible/chapter iii abrahamthe father of.htm

The Story of Hagar and Ishmael
... After the flood families began to move from one place to another, seeking for
themselves new homes. ... There was another good man named Abraham who did not ...
/.../marshall/the wonder book of bible stories/the story of hagar and.htm

Abraham's Faith
... in a natural way, according to their families, in their ... So that, for good or for
evil, the whole Babel ... on the mind of a thoughtful man like Abraham, and raised ...
/.../kingsley/twenty-five village sermons/sermon xii abrahams faith.htm

The Death of Abraham
... yet not sickened, keenly appreciating all the good and pleasantness ... Now, remember,
Abraham's whole life was shaped by that ... Death sets the solitary in families. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the death of abraham.htm

Meditations for Household Piety.
... as may witness the examples of Abraham, Joshua, David, Cornelius, &c., who had good
servants because ... will pour out his wrath upon the families that call ...
/.../bayly/the practice of piety/meditations for household piety.htm

Private Property and the Common Good
... And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one go to them from the ... But the will of
God is identical with the good of mankind ... By aggregations of wealthy families? ...
/.../the social principles of jesus/chapter viii private property and.htm

From Abraham to Egypt.
... of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and their families and how ... good, so that all things can
bring good to them ... (1) The several appearances of God to Abraham: (a) The ...
/.../tidwell/the bible period by period/chapter iv from abraham to.htm

Abraham's Four Surrenders
... I think that they give us a pretty good key to ... In the first place, Abraham was called
to give up his ... that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/men of the bible/i abrahams four surrenders.htm

Concerning Jacob's Flight into Mesopotamia, by Reason of the Fear ...
... And thou shalt have children of good characters, but their ... Isaac my father was the
son of Abraham and of Sarah ... more than she does one with the families of the ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 19 concerning jacobs flight.htm

The Story of the Tower of Babel
... And all the families of the earth shall ask for ... of fine meal, knead it, and make
cakes." Abraham also ran to ... and took a calf that was tender and good, and gave ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/the story of the tower.htm