Topical Bible: Peace: Abraham

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Topical Encyclopedia

Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible, revered as the patriarch of the Israelites, Ishmaelites, Edomites, and Midianites. His life and actions are pivotal in understanding the biblical concept of peace, particularly in the context of divine promise, covenant, and interpersonal relationships.

Divine Covenant and Peace

The concept of peace in Abraham's life is deeply intertwined with God's covenant with him. In Genesis 12:1-3 , God calls Abram to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation, bless him, and make his name great. This divine promise establishes a foundation of peace, as it assures Abraham of God's favor and protection. The covenant is further solidified in Genesis 15, where God promises Abraham numerous descendants and land, symbolizing a future of peace and prosperity.

In Genesis 17, God changes Abram's name to Abraham, meaning "father of many nations," and institutes the covenant of circumcision. This act signifies a lasting peace between God and Abraham's descendants, as it marks them as God's chosen people. The covenant is a source of spiritual peace, providing assurance of God's ongoing relationship and faithfulness.

Interpersonal Peace

Abraham's life also exemplifies peace in his interactions with others. One notable instance is his relationship with Lot, his nephew. In Genesis 13, when strife arises between their herdsmen due to limited resources, Abraham seeks a peaceful resolution. He offers Lot the choice of land, saying, "Please, let there be no strife between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are brothers" (Genesis 13:8). This act of humility and generosity underscores Abraham's commitment to peace and harmony.

Another significant moment is Abraham's treaty with Abimelech in Genesis 21. After a dispute over a well, Abraham and Abimelech make a covenant, ensuring peaceful coexistence. Abraham's willingness to resolve conflicts amicably reflects his character as a man of peace.

Peace through Faith and Obedience

Abraham's faith and obedience to God are central to his experience of peace. In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Abraham's readiness to obey, even in such a difficult command, demonstrates his trust in God's promises. This unwavering faith is rewarded when God provides a ram as a substitute, reaffirming the peace of God's covenant.

The New Testament also highlights Abraham's faith as a model for believers. Romans 4:3 states, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This righteousness through faith brings peace with God, as believers are justified and reconciled through faith, following Abraham's example.

Legacy of Peace

Abraham's legacy of peace extends beyond his lifetime. He is regarded as the father of faith for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, symbolizing a shared heritage and potential for peace among these faiths. His life serves as a testament to the peace that comes from trusting in God's promises, seeking harmonious relationships, and living a life of faith and obedience.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 13:8,9
And Abram said to Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray you, between me and you, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen; for we be brothers.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The First Apostle of Peace at any Price
... did not say, 'We will have no water but what is drawn from Abraham's wells ... when a
man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the first apostle of peace.htm

Concerning Abraham, Bishop of Nisibis
... Nisibis. Concerning Abraham, Bishop of Nisibis. ... consolation. May peace adorn thy
Dominion; be the watchmen within and the congregations without. ...
/.../hymn xvii concerning abraham bishop.htm

On the Words of the Gospel, John i. 10, "The World was Made ...
... them he spake; he foresaw us; "For God is able of these stones to raise up children
unto Abraham." Of what stones? "If these shall hold their peace, the stones ...
/.../sermons on selected lessons of the new testament/sermon lxxi on the words.htm

Thou who Answerest to the Name of Abraham, in that Thou Art Made ...
... R., Blessed be He Who foreshowed Thee in Abraham! ... let the truth be a wall unto thee,
let the cross be a staff unto thee, and truthfulness be peace unto thee. ...
/.../hymns and homilies of ephraim the syrian/hymn xix thou who answerest.htm

Moses and his Writings
... 'Jeru-salem' means city of peace. So, as we see from these ancient letters, Jerusalem
was called the city of peace even in the days of Abraham. ...
/.../duff/the bible in its making/chapter iii moses and his.htm

Recapitulation of the Foregoing Argument, Showing that Abraham ...
... the patriarch, and said: "Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace. ... rejoiced
in God my salvation;" [3871] "the rejoicing of Abraham descending upon ...
/.../irenaeus/against heresies/chapter vii recapitulation of the foregoing.htm

Hebrews vii. 3-Jan
... also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of
Righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of Peace, without ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily xii hebrews vii 3-jan.htm

Abraham's Four Surrenders
... In the first place, Abraham was called to give up his kindred and his native country ...
After the old king of peace had blest him, he met the King of Sodom, and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/men of the bible/i abrahams four surrenders.htm

Of the Union of Man's Will with God's in those Inspirations which ...
... Solomon, so is his spouse called Sulamitess, calm and daughter of peace: and the ...
were the most mild and peaceable men in the world, as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob ...
/.../francis/treatise on the love of god/chapter xii of the union.htm

The Death of Abraham
... Then Abraham gave up ... and wreck, with which that wonderful book ends, has this for
its last touch, evidently intended to deepen the impression of peace which is ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the death of abraham.htm