10 interesting facts about Abraham in the Bible
Abraham in the Bible is one of the most significant figures in the word of God, often referred to as the “father of faith.” His life is a powerful example of trusting God’s promises, even when they seem impossible. Abraham’s journey from his homeland in Ur to becoming the patriarch of Israel is filled with remarkable events that reveal his deep faith, obedience, and relationship with God. Whether you’re familiar with his story or just learning about him, here are 10 interesting facts about Abraham that highlight why he remains a central figure in both the Old and New Testaments.
Who is the Abraham in the Bible
1. Abraham was chosen by God
Abraham didn’t choose God—God chose him. God called him out of his homeland to be the father of many nations. This was purely by grace.
“Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee.” (Genesis 12:1)
2. He is called the father of faith
Abraham is known as the father of faith because he believed in God’s promises, even when they seemed impossible. His faith was counted as righteousness.
“And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” (Genesis 15:6)
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3. Abraham had a covenant with God
God made a special covenant with Abraham, promising him land, descendants, and blessings. This covenant established Abraham’s descendants as a blessed nation.
“And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly.” (Genesis 17:2)
4. He was promised a son in old age
Even though Abraham and Sarah were old, God promised them a son. Abraham didn’t let his old age stop him from believing God’s promise.
“Then Abraham fell upon his face, and laughed, and said in his heart, Shall a child be born unto him that is an hundred years old?” (Genesis 17:17)
5. Abraham obeyed God’s tough commands
When God told Abraham to sacrifice his promised son Isaac, Abraham obeyed without hesitation. This showed Abraham’s total trust in God.
“And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering.” (Genesis 22:2)
6. He interceded for others
Abraham had compassion for others, especially when he prayed for the people of Sodom and Gomorrah. He showed that we should care for others in prayer.
“And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked?” (Genesis 18:23)
7. Abraham was a man of wealth
God blessed Abraham materially. He had plenty of livestock, silver, and gold. Yet, he didn’t let his riches control him.
“And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.”(Genesis 13:2)
8. He was a friend of God
Abraham is called the “friend of God.” This shows the deep, personal relationship Abraham had with the Lord, which we can have too through faith.
“And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.” (James 2:23)
9. He trusted God even when things didn’t make sense
Abraham followed God, even when it seemed illogical. For example, he left his home without knowing where he was going, trusting God’s guidance.
“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.” (Hebrews 11:8)
10. Abraham’s blessing extends to all believers
Because of his faith, Abraham’s blessing is available to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ. We are part of that same promise.
“So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.” (Galatians 3:9)
Short story of Abraham in the Bible
Abraham’s story begins when God called him to leave his home in Ur and go to a land He would show him. Despite not knowing where he was going, Abraham trusted God and obeyed. God promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations, even though he and his wife Sarah were childless and well advanced in years.
After years of waiting, God fulfilled His promise, and Sarah miraculously gave birth to their son, Isaac. Abraham’s faith was tested when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac. In obedience, Abraham prepared to do so, but at the last moment, God provided a ram as a substitute, sparing Isaac’s life.
Abraham lived a life marked by faith, trusting in God’s promises despite obstacles and delays. He became known as the “father of faith,” and through him, God established a covenant that would bless all nations, ultimately fulfilled through Jesus Christ. Abraham passed away at the age of 175, leaving behind a legacy of faith that continues to inspire generations.
5 qualities of Abraham in the Bible
1. Faithful
Abraham believed in God’s promises, even when circumstances seemed impossible. His faith was counted as righteousness, making him a model of trust in God.
“And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.”* (Genesis 15:6)
2. Obedient
Abraham obeyed God without hesitation, even when the instructions were difficult, like leaving his homeland or being willing to sacrifice Isaac. His obedience demonstrated his unwavering trust in God.
“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed.” (Hebrews 11:8)
3. Patient
Abraham waited many years for God’s promise of a son to be fulfilled. His patience showed his reliance on God’s timing rather than his own.
“And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.” (Hebrews 6:15)
4. Courageous
Abraham displayed great courage, whether leaving his homeland or interceding for Sodom and Gomorrah. He was willing to take bold steps in faith, trusting God’s protection and guidance.
“And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew… and he armed his trained servants… and pursued them unto Dan.” (Genesis 14:13-14)
5. Humble
Despite his wealth and blessings, Abraham remained humble before God. He built altars, worshiped God, and relied on Him in every situation, always giving God the glory.
“And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him, saying, As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee.” (Genesis 17:3-4)