Was Abraham a Pagan Before God Called Him?

Feb 09,2025 00:00

Was Abraham a Pagan Before God Called Him?

Yes, Abraham (originally Abram) lived in a pagan culture before God called him. He was born in Ur of the Chaldees, a region known for its polytheistic practices. The Bible indicates that Abraham’s family worshiped other gods before he responded to God’s call.

1. Abraham’s Background

Joshua 24:2 states, “Your fathers dwelt on the other side of the flood in old time, even Terah, the father of Abraham, and the father of Nachor: and they served other gods.” This suggests that Abraham was familiar with pagan worship practices before being set apart by God.

2. God’s Call to Abraham

In Genesis 12:1-3, God calls Abraham to leave his homeland and follow Him: “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee.” This call marked a turning point, as Abraham became the father of the faith, trusting in the one true God.

3. Transformation Through Faith

Abraham’s journey of faith demonstrated his complete trust in God’s promises. Romans 4:3 affirms, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.” This transformation underscores the power of God’s grace to draw people from idolatry to faith.

Conclusion

Abraham’s background in a pagan culture highlights the transformative power of God’s call. His story serves as a testament to the importance of faith and obedience (Hebrews 11:8-10).

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