What is the meaning of Genesis 21:13? But I will also - The sentence opens with God adding something to the primary promise about Isaac (Genesis 21:12). - “Also” highlights His willingness to extend blessing beyond what Abraham expected, showing divine generosity. - Cross references: • Genesis 17:19–21—God distinguishes Isaac’s covenant yet still blesses Ishmael. • Romans 11:29—“For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable,” underscoring His faithfulness. • Psalm 145:9—“The LORD is good to all,” revealing His broad kindness. make a nation - “Nation” points to a vast, organized people, not merely survival. - God’s promise carries three layers: • Numerical growth (Genesis 16:10, “I will multiply your descendants exceedingly”). • Territorial identity, fulfilled in the Arabian tribes traced to Ishmael (Genesis 25:13-18). • Enduring legacy—God’s word guarantees an actual historical outcome. - Cross references: • Genesis 12:2—similar language used for Abraham, underscoring that only God creates nations. • Deuteronomy 1:10—reminds Israel of how God keeps multiplication promises. of the slave woman’s son - God explicitly names the social position: Hagar was a servant (Genesis 16:1). - The phrase underscores that earthly status does not limit divine attention. • Psalm 113:7—“He raises the poor from the dust.” • Isaiah 42:3—“A bruised reed He will not break,” illustrating God’s care for the vulnerable. - It also contrasts the free-born Isaac with the servant-born Ishmael (Galatians 4:22-23), clarifying roles without denying blessing. because he is your offspring - God links the promise to Abraham’s paternity; lineage through Abraham secures blessing. - Bullet points: • Genesis 15:5—stars promise to “your seed.” • Genesis 22:18—“In your seed all nations will be blessed.” • Galatians 3:29—those in Christ share Abraham’s spiritual line, showing the pattern of blessing through covenant relationship. - The statement reaffirms that God honors His commitments to Abraham in both spiritual and physical dimensions. summary Genesis 21:13 reveals God’s faithful, compassionate character. While the covenant line runs through Isaac, the Lord extends real, tangible blessing to Ishmael, promising to forge a genuine nation from him. Social status cannot hinder God’s purposes, and Abraham’s paternity secures Ishmael’s future. The verse assures us that God keeps every word He speaks, caring broadly while still carrying out His specific redemptive plan. |
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