Genesis 11:10-32 – Ancestors of Abraham
Categories: Bible Study LessonsThe remainder of the chapter is a list of men whose only importance is that they are the ancestors of Abraham, a man not yet mentioned. If not for this connection they would certainly be unmentioned in history. They are mentioned because of the importance of the ancestry of Abraham. From Noah to Abraham, this is the line of Christ. As Matthew wrote, “The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham” (Matt. 1:1). Jesus of Nazareth is not the Christ unless He is descended from Abraham. Also, it would not have availed to descend from Abraham if he were of the line of Cain or of Canaan. Establishing and recording Abraham’s line from Noah through Shem, then, is essential.
Much is done in this chapter to establish Abraham as an historical man. His family line is given for many generations. His father and brothers and a nephew are named. Even his wife with a significant detail is mentioned. Finally, location is given, Ur of the Chaldees and Haran. Abraham is not some mythical figure but was a real man in space and time.