Genesis 21:2

For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him.

For Sarah {H8283} conceived {H2029}, and bare {H3205} Abraham {H85} a son {H1121} in his old age {H2208}, at the set time {H4150} of which God {H430} had spoken {H1696} to him.

Sarah conceived and bore Avraham a son in his old age, at the very time God had said to him.

So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised.

And Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him.

Commentary

Context of Genesis 21:2

Genesis 21:2 marks a pivotal moment in the Abrahamic narrative, the long-awaited fulfillment of God's covenant promise to Abraham and Sarah. For decades, God had promised Abraham a son through whom his descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 12:2). However, both Abraham and Sarah were well past childbearing age, making the prospect humanly impossible. Abraham was 100 years old and Sarah 90 when Isaac was born. This verse directly follows the birth of Isaac, confirming the miraculous nature of the event and the precise timing of God's intervention, as previously foretold (e.g., Genesis 18:10).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Faithfulness and Promise-Keeping: The primary message is God's unwavering faithfulness. Despite the seemingly impossible circumstances and the long delay, God fulfills His word precisely "at the set time." This highlights that God's promises are sure and will come to pass according to His perfect schedule.
  • Miraculous Power of God: The birth of Isaac demonstrates God's ability to transcend natural limitations and bring about His will. It underscores that what is impossible with man is possible with God (Luke 18:27).
  • God's Perfect Timing: The phrase "at the set time" is crucial. It emphasizes that God operates on His own divine calendar, not ours. His timing is always perfect, even when it requires patience and faith from His people.
  • Fulfillment of Covenant: This birth is a vital step in the unfolding of God's covenant with Abraham, laying the groundwork for the nation of Israel and ultimately, the lineage of the Messiah.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "at the set time" translates the Hebrew word mo'ed (ΧžΧ•ΦΉΧ’Φ΅Χ“). This term often refers to an appointed time, a fixed season, or a solemn assembly. Its use here emphasizes that God's promise was not vague but precisely scheduled, highlighting divine precision and sovereignty. It wasn't a random event but the culmination of a divinely ordained plan, executed with perfect timing.

Practical Application

Genesis 21:2 offers profound encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • God is Faithful: When facing seemingly impossible situations or long waits for prayer requests, we can rest assured that God is faithful to His promises. He will act according to His word.
  • Trust His Timing: We often desire immediate results, but this verse teaches the value of patience and trusting God's perfect timing. His delay is not denial, but preparation for His appointed season.
  • Nothing is Too Hard for the Lord: The miraculous birth of Isaac serves as a powerful reminder that no circumstance is too difficult for God. He can work beyond human limitations to accomplish His purposes, just as Abraham's faith was counted for righteousness (Romans 4:20-21).
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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 11:11 (7 votes)

    Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.

  • Galatians 4:22 (7 votes)

    For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.

  • Luke 1:36 (5 votes)

    And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

  • Genesis 18:14 (5 votes)

    Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

  • Genesis 17:19 (5 votes)

    And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, [and] with his seed after him.

  • Luke 1:24 (5 votes)

    And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,

  • Luke 1:25 (5 votes)

    Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on [me], to take away my reproach among men.