Understanding Genesis 21:13
Verse: Genesis 21:13: "And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed."
Summary of Genesis 21:13
This verse occurs in the narrative surrounding Hagar and her son Ishmael, emphasizing God's promise to Hagar that her son would also become a great nation. It reflects God's compassion and His overarching plan in dealing with humanity.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry's Commentary
According to Matthew Henry, this verse showcases God’s lovingkindness, as He acknowledges Ishmael despite the circumstances of his birth. God’s declaration that He would make a nation from Ishmael underscores His sovereignty and His ability to include all of Abraham's descendants in His blessings.
Albert Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes emphasizes that God, in His covenant, includes provision for Ishmael. This indicates the inclusivity of God’s promise and God's preparedness to fulfill His promises to all of Abraham's offspring. This assurance comforts Hagar in her plight, revealing God's intimate awareness of her struggles.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke notes that this verse illustrates the fulfillment of God’s word, highlighting the different paths taken by the descendants of Isaac and Ishmael. He points out the significance of divine choice in establishing nations, showing that while Ishmael was not the child of promise, he too had a divine destiny.
Cross-References
Genesis 21:13 connects with several other significant scriptures:
- Genesis 16:10: God's promise to multiply Hagar's descendants.
- Genesis 17:20: God's affirmation of Ishmael's future as a nation.
- Galatians 4:22-31: Paul’s allegorical interpretation of Hagar and Sarah.
- Exodus 2:15: The plight of those who face rejection but are significant in God's plan.
- Isaiah 60:1-3: God's promise of light to all nations, including those descended from Ishmael.
- Romans 9:7: Context of God's choice and lineage among descendants.
- Matthew 1:2-3: Connection of Abraham’s descendants to God’s plan through both lineages.
Thematic Connections
This verse also showcases themes such as:
- The sovereignty of God: His ability to shape history and fulfill promises.
- Compassion and care: God's attention to the marginalized, as seen in Hagar and Ishmael's story.
- Divine promise: The assurance that God's word does not fail, be it to Isaac or Ishmael.
- Inclusivity of grace: God's reach extends beyond the chosen line to those considered lesser.
Conclusion
In Genesis 21:13, we see how God interacts with humanity, especially through marginalized figures like Hagar and Ishmael. This verse serves not only as historical context but as a theological foundation for understanding God’s promises throughout the Bible. Through cross-referencing with the related verses, one can see a wider landscape of God’s covenantal actions and promises, showcasing the intricate network of God's divine plan.
