Abraham’s Faith

Some people equate faith with blind optimism that one’s luck will turn around eventually. But biblical faith has its foundation in our good God and his promises, and it is ultimately dependent on the gospel and God’s redemptive plan for creation that will be consummated in the new heavens and earth.

Ever since the promise to Eve that one of her offspring would defeat the serpent, it was clear in the biblical narrative which line carried that promise. After Cain murdered righteous Abel, Seth became the heir of promise. Multiple Sethites were revealed to have faith in God, culminating in Noah, who then indicated the line of promise would run through his son Shem.

But at Babel, the nations were scattered with no clear indication of where the line of promise would go from there. The universal rebellion was met with seemingly universal judgment. Several generations later, God revealed that he would create a new nation from Abraham, a descendant of Shem, and his offspring.

Abraham was not special; he was an idolater before God revealed himself to him (Joshua 24:2–3). But he obeyed and went to a land far from his extended family based on the promise that God would establish him there. He further believed that God would bless him with a son in his old age.

Abraham’s true faith in God marked him out as the next link in the line of promise and made him the father of all those who have faith.

Abraham’s true faith in God marked him out as the next link in the line of promise and made him the father of all those who have faith. It is notable that Abraham had far less revelation of God than we do today. He did not have the Mosaic law or any written Scripture. Because his family were idolaters, it is unclear what knowledge of the true God they had. But Abraham believed the revelation that he had and responded with obedience.

Abraham was not a perfect man. Instead of trusting God, he lied twice about his relationship with Sarah, putting her at risk both times. When they became impatient about how long it was taking to have their son, Abraham took matters into his own hands and had Ishmael. Rather than criticizing Abraham, this should encourage us because, like Abraham, our faith is imperfect at the best of times.

Today, believers have the full revelation of God’s Word, we are cleansed by Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice, and we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit who helps us to understand and obey God’s Word. This is an abundance of spiritual riches that Abraham could only anticipate and look forward to.

Scripture Reading: Romans 4:1–25

Question for Discussion/Reflection: How is biblical faith different from the faith of believers of other religions?

Suggestion for Prayer: Pray about any areas in which your faith might be weak and ask God to strengthen your faith.