Introduction

The Call of Abram marks a pivotal moment in biblical history, signifying the beginning of God's covenant relationship with the patriarchs of Israel. This event is recorded in Genesis 12:1-9 and is foundational to understanding the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan through the nation of Israel.

Biblical Account

In Genesis 12:1-3 , the LORD said to Abram, "Go forth 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."

Abram's call involved a significant act of faith and obedience. He was instructed to leave his homeland, Ur of the Chaldeans, and journey to an unknown land that God would reveal to him. This call required Abram to trust in God's promises without knowing the specifics of the journey or the destination.

Theological Significance

The Call of Abram is significant for several reasons:

1. Covenant Relationship: This event marks the initiation of the Abrahamic Covenant, a foundational covenant in the biblical narrative. God's promises to Abram include making him a great nation, blessing him, and making his name great. These promises are not only personal but also have universal implications, as all the families of the earth would be blessed through Abram.

2. Faith and Obedience: Abram's response to God's call is a model of faith and obedience. Hebrews 11:8 highlights this, stating, "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 his trust in God's faithfulness and sovereignty.

3. Blessing and Mission: The call includes a missional aspect, as Abram is not only to be blessed but also to be a blessing to others. This anticipates the role of Israel as a light to the nations and foreshadows the ultimate blessing to all nations through Jesus Christ, a descendant of Abram.

Historical Context

Abram lived in a polytheistic society, and his call to follow the one true God set him apart from his contemporaries. The journey from Ur to Canaan was approximately 1,000 miles, a significant undertaking in the ancient world. Abram's obedience in leaving his homeland underscores the radical nature of his faith.

Key Themes

· Divine Initiative: The call of Abram is initiated by God, emphasizing His sovereign choice and grace.
· Promise and Fulfillment: The promises made to Abram set the stage for the unfolding account of redemption throughout the Bible.
· Faith Journey: Abram's journey is emblematic of the life of faith, characterized by trust in God's promises despite uncertainty.

Conclusion

The Call of Abram is a foundational event in the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of faith, obedience, and divine promise. It sets the stage for the development of God's covenant people and the ultimate blessing of all nations through the Messiah.