What is the meaning of Genesis 15:8? But Abram replied • After God reiterates His promise of descendants and land (Genesis 15:5-7), Abram speaks honestly, modeling a living relationship with the Lord (Psalm 62:8). • Scripture records similar dialogues where faithful servants voice their concerns—Moses in Exodus 3:11 and David in 2 Samuel 7:18. • Abram is not doubting God’s ability; he is seeking deeper understanding, much like the psalmist who asks, “How long, O LORD?” (Psalm 13:1). Lord GOD • “Lord” shows Abram’s submission; “GOD” (YHWH) highlights the covenant-keeping nature of the One speaking (Exodus 34:6). • The pairing combines reverence and intimacy: the sovereign King is also the personal Redeemer (Genesis 15:2; Psalm 16:2). • New-covenant believers echo this blend of awe and closeness when they cry “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15) while bowing to Christ as Lord (Philippians 2:11). how can I know • Faith welcomes assurance (Hebrews 11:1). Abram already “believed the LORD” (Genesis 15:6) yet seeks a tangible confirmation—parallel to Gideon’s request for a sign in Judges 6:17. • God never scolds sincere inquiry; He invites it, promising wisdom to those who ask (James 1:5). • The coming covenant ceremony (Genesis 15:9-21) becomes the divine answer, foreshadowing the unbreakable New Covenant sealed in Christ’s blood (Luke 22:20). that I will possess it? • “It” points to the land of Canaan first promised in Genesis 12:7 and later fulfilled under Joshua (Joshua 21:43-45). • Possession involves both inheritance and stewardship—truths later applied to believers who are “heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17) and stewards of spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3). • Abram’s question underscores God’s grace: the land will be given, not earned—mirroring salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). summary Genesis 15:8 captures a faith that is real enough to ask, “How can I know?” Abram’s respectful question invites God to provide covenant assurance. The verse shows: • a personal dialogue with the covenant Lord, • a rightful desire for confirmation, and • the certainty that God’s promises—land for Abram, eternal life for us—rest on His unchanging word. |
    |