Dictionary of Bible Themes Dictionary of Bible Themes » 5000 Humanity » 5070 Individuals in OT and NT » 5075 Abraham » 5077 Abraham, character of Despite some shortcomings as a husband and father, his obedience, faith, hospitality and effective intercession were exemplary. Such qualities led to his being called “friend of God”. Abraham, the friend of God He was blessed by God Genesis 14:18-19 See also Genesis 21:22; Genesis 24:1,35 He worshipped God Genesis 21:33 See also Genesis 12:8; Genesis 13:4,18 He had faith in God Genesis 15:6 See also Romans 4:18-22; Hebrews 6:15 Abraham's faith is seen in the length of time (25 years) that he waited for the realisation of the promise; Hebrews 11:8-12,17-19 He was obedient Genesis 22:1-19 See also Genesis 12:4; Genesis 26:5; James 2:20-22 He was a prophet and intercessor Genesis 20:7 See also Genesis 18:16-33 As a prophet, God reveals his will to Abraham; as an intercessor, Abraham brings the revelation back to God and pleads for him to change his mind. He was called the friend of God James 2:23 See also Genesis 15:6; 2 Chronicles 20:7; Isaiah 41:8 Abraham's weaknesses as head of his household He was held responsible by God for his family Genesis 18:19 As the following references show, Abraham did not discharge this responsibility well. He exploited his wife in a cowardly way See also Genesis 12:10-20; Genesis 20:1-18 He fathered Ishmael as a result of wavering faith He allowed Sarah to mistreat Hagar Genesis 16:4-6; Genesis 21:9-14 Abraham's strengths as a member of society He was well-respected outside his household He sought to resolve disputes amicably Genesis 13:5-12; Genesis 21:25-31 His wealth was a source of prestige Genesis 24:35 See also Genesis 13:2; Genesis 24:1 He was honoured for his military prowess He was concerned to maintain his independence from the Canaanites Genesis 14:22-24 See also Genesis 23:7-16; Genesis 24:1-4 He showed hospitality to strangers See also
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