Fundamental Belief 18: Promises to Abraham

God’s fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, a man called the father of the faithful, represents God’s enduring faithfulness and provides important keys to understanding biblical prophecy. As promised, God multiplied Abraham’s descendants so that Abraham literally became the father of many nations. God materially prospered his descendants: Isaac, Jacob (also called Israel) and Jacob’s 12 sons who were the progenitors of the 12 tribes of ancient Israel. Descendants of these peoples continue as prominent nations today (particularly the descendants of Ephraim and Manasseh) because they have inherited the physical blessings of Abraham. In addition to the physical blessings promised Abraham, another promise was made by God to this patriarch—a promise of salvation through his Seed (Jesus Christ), which all people, regardless of their physical lineage, may receive. All who respond to God’s calling belong to Christ and are considered Abraham’s seed. Understanding these promises made to Abraham provides a more accurate understanding of the world today and the messages of the prophets.To download a free print copy of this booklet, click here.