ABRAHAM, FATHER OF FAITH: THE INTERPRETATION OF GENESIS 15: 6 FROM GENESIS TO PAUL (GALATIANS, ROMANS)

In Gal 3 and Rom 4 Paul applies Gen 15:6 as scriptural warrant for the argument concerning righteousness by faith. By comparative midrash Paul's use of Gen 15:6 can be examined to question his continuity and discontinuity with other Jewish and Christian interpreters of Abraham. Such an examination reveals Paul's essential continuity with other interpreters in his application of the traditions to two early Christian communities.;Using common midrashic methods and the widely known interpretive traditions, Paul applies Gen 15:6 to his arguments with Galatia and Rome. While his interpretation differs in tone and emphasis according to the situation, in both Gal 3 and Rom 4 Paul uses Gen 15:6 to meld the exclusive and inclusive Abraham traditions. He makes Abraham the scriptural model of Christian faith, inclusive of believing Gentiles (especially in Romans) and exculsive of those who rely on works of the law (especially in Galatians).;Thus Paul is a creative theologian much less in originating Abraham traditions than in combining and applying those traditions he receives. By appeal to the authoritative test Paul claims for his mission to the Gentiles a continuity with the faith of Abraham and the traditions of the Jews.;In its original context, Gen 15:6 is a late theological reflection on Gen 15:1-5, a form-critical patchwork reflecting exilic or even post-exilic editing. Gen 15:6 sits loosely in its context, its key theological terms begging elaboration and open to a wide range of interpretations. Subsequently the biblical Abraham traditions are expanded and applied to the historical tensions within Judaism. While most interpreters amplify the promises to Abraham to which his children fall heir, they differ as to who the heirs will be. One line of interpretation presents Abraham as symbolic of exclusive election and Jewish identity. Another presents him as symbolic of inclusive Divine blessing and universal benefaction. Subsequent interpretation of Gen 15:6 reflects these extremes, one line of interpretation emphasizing Abraham's righteousness as consistent obedience to Torah or faithfulness in testing, the other emphasizing Abraham's faith as an abiding trust and monotheistic belief.