Exegesis of Gen 12: 1-9 as Pattern for Christian Priests

Abstract

Priesthood is associated with religion, Christianity, a type of religion is not an exemption. There are ordained and lay priesthood in today's ecclesiology. In this paper, the researcher employed narrative method of biblical exegesis for proper interpretation of the study text. In the contemporary, the conduct and attitude of priests seem absurd. It has metamorphosed to a degree that priesthood has become religious industry instead of total obeisance to divine call. It is therefore necessary to attempt to ameliorate the undeserved situation the church priesthood has delved into. In order to make this a reality, Old Testament Abram became the choice of study. Abram was chosen by the LORD to abstain from apostasy to monotheistic religion. The following virtues were found in him: obedience, humility, creativity, love, industrious, faith, fidelity, knowledge and so on. The researcher contends that when Abraham's pattern of life style is recommended to teeming Nigerian church priests and applied by them, there would be rejuvenation of both the church and Christian priesthood in Nigeria.