Why was Abraham’s witness so important that it was included in John’s gospel?

 Abraham's witness is highlighted in John's Gospel, as well as throughout the New Testament, because he embodies the foundational promises of God to bless all nations through his lineage, particularly through the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. These promises and blessings to Abraham and his descendants set the stage for the New Testament’s message of salvation. Here’s a closer look at the significance.

Promise of Blessing to All Nations (Genesis 12:3, Genesis 18:16–18, Genesis 26:4)

In Genesis 12:3, God tells Abraham that "all peoples on earth will be blessed through you," foreshadowing the global impact of Abraham’s descendants. The New Testament understands this blessing as fulfilled in Jesus, who provides salvation to all. John’s Gospel emphasizes that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel, and by highlighting Abraham, John connects Jesus to the broader narrative of God’s plan to bless all nations.

Ancestry of Jesus (Matthew 1:1)

In Matthew’s genealogy, Jesus is called “the son of Abraham,” which underscores the messianic lineage. Abraham’s faith and covenant with God form the root of this lineage, confirming Jesus as the promised descendant through whom God’s blessing to the nations would come. John’s Gospel presents Jesus as the fulfillment of this line, inviting readers to see Jesus as the ultimate realization of the promises made to Abraham.

Connection to God’s Covenant with Israel (Acts 3:25)

In Acts, Peter reiterates God’s promise to Abraham, calling Jesus the servant through whom God’s blessings reach all peoples. This echoes John’s portrayal of Jesus as the Savior sent not just to Israel, but to the entire world (John 3:16). By referencing Abraham, John’s Gospel situates Jesus within God’s covenant faithfulness and highlights that Jesus is central to God’s plan for humanity.

Including Abraham’s witness underscores Jesus as the fulfillment of ancient promises, affirming the continuity of God’s plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament and demonstrating God’s faithfulness in bringing about redemption through Jesus. This background reinforces John’s message of Jesus as the Light of the World, accessible to all people, fulfilling the blessings promised to Abraham.

More: Lesson 7 - Blessed Are Those  Who Believe