The New Testament consistently presents Abraham as a model of faith for several key reasons, all stemming from his unquestioning obedience and trust in God's promises, even when those promises seemed impossible or contradictory. Here's a breakdown of the main reasons:
* Obedience to God's Call (Hebrews 11:8): The pivotal moment defining Abraham's faith is his willingness to leave his homeland and family, a familiar and secure life, in response to God's call. Hebrews 11:8 states, "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." This exemplifies a complete reliance on God's guidance, even without a clear understanding of the future. This resonates with the New Testament's emphasis on discipleship, requiring believers to follow Jesus even when it's difficult or uncertain.
* Belief in Impossible Promises (Romans 4:18-22): Abraham's faith is further illustrated by his unwavering belief in God's promise to make him the father of many nations, despite his and Sarah's advanced age and Sarah's barrenness. Romans 4:18-22 emphasizes that Abraham "believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations according to what was spoken, 'So shall your descendants be'." The New Testament highlights this as a powerful example of trusting in God's power and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem impossible. This echoes the New Testament's message of hope and the power of God to work miracles and fulfill promises.
* Justification by Faith (Romans 4:3, Galatians 3:6): The New Testament, particularly in Romans and Galatians, uses Abraham as the prime example to illustrate the doctrine of justification by faith, not by works. Romans 4:3 quotes Genesis 15:6, stating, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This demonstrates that Abraham's faith, not his adherence to the law (which didn't yet exist), was the basis for his being declared righteous by God. This is crucial for the New Testament's argument that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not through obedience to the Law of Moses.
* Willingness to Sacrifice Isaac (Hebrews 11:17-19): Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac, at God's command, is considered the ultimate demonstration of his faith. Hebrews 11:17-19 emphasizes that Abraham believed God could even raise Isaac from the dead. This symbolizes complete trust in God's plan and purpose, even when it seems incomprehensible or painful. While God ultimately provided a substitute sacrifice, Abraham's willingness represents the kind of radical obedience and devotion that the New Testament calls believers to show towards God. It also foreshadows God's own sacrifice of his son, Jesus.
* Father of All Who Believe (Romans 4:16): The New Testament portrays Abraham as the spiritual ancestor not only of the Jewish people but of all who have faith, regardless of their ethnicity or background. Romans 4:16 states that Abraham is the "father of all who believe." This highlights the universality of God's promise and the inclusive nature of salvation through faith. This is central to the New Testament's message of bringing the Gospel to all nations.
In summary, Abraham serves as a model of faith in the New Testament because he embodies:
* Unwavering obedience to God's call
* Belief in God's impossible promises
* Justification by faith, not by works
* Radical devotion and willingness to sacrifice
* Spiritual fatherhood to all believers
These qualities make him a powerful example for New Testament believers seeking to live out their faith in God and follow Jesus Christ.