Introduction

The Call of Abraham marks a pivotal moment in biblical history, signifying the beginning of God's covenant relationship with the patriarchs of Israel. This event is primarily recorded in Genesis 12:1-9 and is foundational to understanding the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan for humanity. Abraham, originally named Abram, is called by God to leave his homeland and journey to a land that God promises to show him. This call is not only a geographical relocation but also a spiritual journey of faith and obedience.

Biblical Account

The account of Abraham's call is found in Genesis 12:1-3 : "Then the LORD said to Abram, 'Go from your country, your kindred, and your father’s house 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, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you.'"

Context and Background

Abram was living in Ur of the Chaldeans, a prosperous city in Mesopotamia, when he received God's call. The cultural and religious environment of Ur was polytheistic, which makes Abram's response to the monotheistic call of Yahweh particularly significant. Abram's journey from Ur to Haran, and eventually to Canaan, represents a radical departure from his past life and a commitment to follow God's leading.

Theological Significance

1. Faith and Obedience: Abram's response to God's call is characterized by faith and obedience. Hebrews 11:8 highlights this: "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." Abram's willingness to leave everything familiar demonstrates a profound trust in God's promises.

2. Covenant Promise: The call of Abram is accompanied by a series of promises that form the basis of the Abrahamic Covenant. God promises to make Abram into a great nation, to bless him, and to make his name great. This covenantal relationship is central to the biblical narrative, as it sets the stage for the development of the nation of Israel and the coming of the Messiah.

3. Blessing to the Nations: God's promise that "all the families of the earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 12:3) foreshadows the universal scope of God's redemptive plan. This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, through whom salvation is offered to all people.

Abram's Journey

Abram's journey is marked by several key events that further illustrate his faith and God's faithfulness:

· Altar Building: Upon arriving in Canaan, Abram builds altars to the LORD at Shechem and Bethel (Genesis 12:7-8), signifying his worship and dedication to God.

· Famine and Egypt: A famine in Canaan leads Abram to sojourn in Egypt, where he faces challenges that test his faith (Genesis 12:10-20).

· Separation from Lot: Abram's separation from his nephew Lot (Genesis 13:5-13) underscores the need for Abram to rely solely on God's guidance and provision.

Legacy

The Call of Abraham is a foundational event that shapes the identity and mission of the people of Israel. It serves as a model of faith and obedience for believers throughout history. Abraham's journey of faith is a testament to the transformative power of God's call and the blessings that flow from a life committed to His purposes.