The Faith of Abraham and the Patient Perseverance of the Saints in Hebrews

Abstract

While many studies on faith in the New Testament focus on the character of Abraham within Paul’s letters, these studies have not turned their attention to Abraham’s faith in the book of Hebrews. This dissertation will accomplish two goals: first, it will provide a needed treatment of Abraham in the book of Hebrews; second, it will contribute to the ongoing scholarly discussion on what faith is in Hebrews. Methodologically, this dissertation will focus on the literary and theological rendering of Abraham in the book of Hebrews. Aligned with this task, I will examine the intertextuality of Hebrews and its interpretation of LXX texts. Hebrews employs a distinct method of interpreting Old Testament texts and analyzing this use of the OT in order to better understand the letter’s argument will be an important part of the dissertation. By providing a close reading of Abraham’s faith in Hebrews, the unique understanding of faith that Hebrews offers will be illuminated. Faith in Hebrews will be described as the conviction that strengthens those patiently awaiting God’s promises, even as they endure trial and uncertainty. Rather than an understanding of faith as merely cognitive belief, faith will be seen as a way of life. Abraham’s long journey of discipleship represents faith as the conviction by which Abraham acted throughout his life, not just at a particular moment. We will see that Abraham’s faith is the most important example of faith in Hebrews, after Jesus himself. In addition to providing this needed analysis of Abraham’s role in Hebrews, this dissertation will also contribute to the scholarly understanding of the audience of the letter. Through a review of the scholarly literature and a focus on Abraham’s role in this discussion, I will conclude that the audience of Hebrews is best understood as Jewish Christians.