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This is part of a series of posts based on the Churches Together in England publication one light: one world. If you click on the link you will find the biblical texts. This post of the same name covers the purpose of this series.
Genesis 12:1-3
It is difficult to believe many people in the modern West see themselves as children of Abraham. The story goes, he is not only father of the Jews but also (directly through Ishmael) of Muslims and (indirectly) of Christians.
I suppose this passage is here to make the point that we are all of one nation. But the very concept of nation implies there are other nations. Can this be read as divisive, as well as implying the unity of all Christians? Certainly insisting that we're all part of the same nation will cut little mustard in the entrenched conflicts around the world.
We are it seems divided according to whether we bless or curse Abraham. The final clause however says, in Abraham all families of the earth shall be blessed. Perhaps there is a glimpse here of the final Oikoumene.
I can see the logic but I must confess I am indifferent to this line of argument. Christians are one in the Spirit, in our recognition of Jesus Christ and in our hope that ultimately all shall be reconciled in Christ. Abraham seems a little superflous to me although I appreciate others might disagree. Perhaps it is a helpful text where there are conflicts between Christians, Jews and Muslims?
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