An examination of the use of Abraham in early Christian writings provides a good litmus test for determining the nature and extent of Christian controversy with Jews from Paul through Justin Martyr (ca. 50-150 CE). In part, such an analysis shows that in general early Christian appeals to Abraham move from arguing for Gentile inclusion in the promises of God (Paul, Luke-Acts) to arguing for Jewish exclusion from the promises of God (John, Justin Martyr).
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