Great Faith of Abraham

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Abraham, often called the “Father of Faith,” is a central figure in the Bible whose life exemplifies profound trust in God. His faith journey includes significant events that demonstrate unwavering belief and obedience to God’s commands. This study explores what makes Abraham’s faith great, backed by scriptural references and theological analysis.

1. Named “Father of Faith”

Scripture:

• Romans 4:16-17 (ESV): “That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his offspring—not only to the adherent of the law but also to the one who shares the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all, as it is written, ‘I have made you the father of many nations’—in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.”

Analysis: Abraham is called the “father of faith” because he is the prototype of true faith. His life exemplifies unwavering trust in God, making him the spiritual father of all who believe, both Jews and Gentiles. His faith set a precedent for justification by faith, which is central to Christian doctrine. Throughout his life, Abraham’s intimate relationship with God was marked by direct communication, obedience, and trust, which solidified his role as the father of all who have faith.

2. Obedience to God’s Call

Scripture:

• Genesis 12:1-4 (ESV): “Now the Lord said to Abram, ‘Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.”

Analysis: Abraham’s faith is first demonstrated through his obedience to God’s call to leave his homeland. At the age of 75, he left everything familiar to journey to an unknown land based solely on God’s promise. This obedience shows his deep trust in God’s plan and his willingness to follow God’s direction without question or hesitation. Abraham’s intimacy with God was evident in his immediate and complete obedience, reflecting a close and trusting relationship.

3. Belief in God’s Promises Despite Uncertainty

Scripture:

• Genesis 15:5-6 (ESV): “And he brought him outside and said, ‘Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.’ Then he said to him, ‘So shall your offspring be.’ And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness.”

Analysis: Abraham believed God’s promise that he would have numerous descendants, even when he had no children and his wife Sarah was barren. His faith was counted as righteousness because he trusted God’s word despite the physical impossibilities. This belief highlights the essence of faith as trusting in God’s promises even when circumstances seem contrary. Abraham’s ongoing communication with God and his unwavering belief in God’s promises reflect an intimate and steadfast faith.

4. Willingness to Sacrifice Isaac

Scripture:

• Genesis 22:1-2, 9-12 (ESV): “After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, ‘Abraham!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ He said, ‘Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.’ … When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, ‘Abraham, Abraham!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ He said, ‘Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.'”

Analysis: One of the most profound demonstrations of Abraham’s faith was his willingness to sacrifice his promised son, Isaac. This act of obedience, despite the emotional and spiritual cost, showed his ultimate trust in God. Abraham believed that God could even raise Isaac from the dead (Hebrews 11:17-19), highlighting his faith in God’s power and promises. This event underscores Abraham’s deep intimacy with God, as he was willing to obey even the most difficult command, trusting completely in God’s plan.

5. Faith in the Covenant Promises

Scripture:

• Genesis 17:4-5 (ESV): “‘Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations.'”

Analysis: God changed Abram’s name to Abraham, meaning “father of many,” as a sign of the covenant and the promise that he would be the progenitor of many nations. Abraham’s acceptance of this new identity and his trust in the covenant promises further illustrate his great faith. This covenant was not based on Abraham’s actions but on God’s grace and Abraham’s belief in God’s word. Abraham’s faith and his intimate relationship with God were foundational to the establishment and fulfillment of this covenant.

6. God’s Covenant After the Isaac Sacrifice Event

Scripture:

• Genesis 22:15-18 (ESV): “And the angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time from heaven and said, ‘By myself I have sworn, declares the Lord, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.'”

Analysis: After Abraham demonstrated his willingness to sacrifice Isaac, God reaffirmed His covenant with Abraham with even greater promises. God swore by Himself, underscoring the absolute certainty and irrevocability of His promises. This covenantal reaffirmation was a direct response to Abraham’s act of faith and obedience, highlighting that great blessings come from profound faith and trust in God. Abraham’s intimate and obedient relationship with God was crucial in solidifying this covenant, showcasing the deep bond between faith and divine promise.

Lessons from Abraham’s Faith

1. Obey God’s Call: Respond to God’s direction with immediate and complete obedience, even when the path is uncertain.
2. Believe in God’s Promises: Trust in God’s promises despite circumstances that may seem impossible.
3. Demonstrate Ultimate Trust: Be willing to sacrifice what is most precious, showing total reliance on God.
4. Embrace God’s Covenant: Accept and live out the identity and promises God gives, understanding that faith is foundational to the relationship with God.
5. Inspire Future Generations: Recognize that true faith sets an example for others, establishing a legacy of trust in God.

Summary

Abraham’s faith is great because it encompasses obedience, belief in promises despite impossibilities, willingness to sacrifice, and acceptance of God’s covenant. He is named the “Father of Faith” because his life exemplifies the essence of trusting in God, setting a precedent for all believers. The covenant God made with Abraham, reaffirmed after the Isaac sacrifice event, underscores the profound relationship between faith and divine promise. Abraham’s story continues to inspire and guide believers, encouraging them to trust in God’s plans, promises, and purposes with unwavering faith. His intimate relationship with God, marked by direct communication, obedience, and trust, serves as a model of how faith and closeness to God are intricately linked.