The section of the book of Genesis containing the life of Abraham occupies rather more than a quarter of the whole book and extends from 11:27 to 25:11. It is prefaced by the phrase, “These are the generations of Terah” (Gen. 11:27), the distinguishing sectional note of this book.
The record given in Genesis of the patriarch’s life is divided into three parts, the main subjects of which are—
(1) Abram’s call at a time when idol worship had become rampant in the earth to be a public witness for God in the land of the accursed Canaanite (Gen. 11:27-14:24).
(2) The development of Abraham’s spiritual character, particularly in his private family life and relationships (Gen. 15:1-21:34).
(3) Certain events of Abraham’s later years, historically arranged to give a prophetic outlook to the sacrifice of the coming Seed, to the removal of Israel as a national witness after that sacrifice [the death of Sarah], to the call of a foreign bride for the Seed, and to the ultimate blessing of the nations associated with Abraham (Gen. 22:1-25:11).
The beginning of parts (2) and (3) is indicated in each case by the phrase, “After these things.”
It will be observed that some of the great principles which permeate the Bible as a revelation of God are illustrated for the first time in the life of Abram.
For instance, he was a man who was chosen and called out by God to become His servant and His witness. He was the one to whom God gave His promise of world-wide blessing, confirming it by an oath. He was the one to whom God communicated the knowledge of what He meant to do, admitting him to such a degree of intimacy that Abraham is described as the friend of God. We can trace some twelve or more special communications which Jehovah was pleased to make to this man of faith.
The patriarch became by reason of his sublime faith a pattern to men for all time. Nevertheless, instances of his failure in the very respect in which he excelled are recorded in Genesis without any attempt at excuse or extenuation. His lofty self-renunciation in adopting the pilgrim character places him in the front rank of the nobility of the spiritual world. As a stranger in the earth he was a worshipper of the God who had exercised His sovereign will in electing him to do Him that service. In that capacity he was made the head of the race or family of faith, who still walk in the steps of their father Abraham.
The lectures by Mr. Kelly which follow will be found of great service to all who wish to study the life of this remarkable man, and to master the great lessons of faith and practical walk inculcated therein.
W. J. Hocking
Original Title: Abram the Friend of God