Hebrews 11:11

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Through faith {G4102} also {G2532} Sara {G4564} herself {G846} received {G2983} strength {G1411} to {G1519} conceive {G2602} seed {G4690}, and {G2532} was delivered of a child {G5088} when she was past {G3844} age {G2540}{G2244}, because {G1893} she judged {G2233} him faithful {G4103} who had promised {G1861}.

Complete Jewish Bible

By trusting, he received potency to father a child, even when he was past the age for it, as was Sarah herself; because he regarded the One who had made the promise as trustworthy.

Berean Standard Bible

By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child, because she considered Him faithful who had promised.

American Standard Version

By faith even Sarah herself received power to conceive seed when she was past age, since she counted him faithful who had promised:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 11:11 stands as a powerful testament within the "Hall of Faith," celebrating Sarah's miraculous conception and childbirth in her old age. This verse highlights that Sarah, despite her advanced years and natural barrenness, received supernatural strength to conceive because she firmly believed in the trustworthiness of God, who had made the promise. Her story underscores the radical nature of faith, which apprehends divine power beyond human limitation, resting solely on the unwavering faithfulness of the Promiser.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 11 is famously known as the "Hall of Faith," a chapter dedicated to illustrating faith through the lives of Old Testament figures. Following the general exhortation to perseverance in [Hebrews 10:36-39](/hebrews/10-36-39 "Hebrews 10:36-39 - Perseverance through Faith"), the author defines faith in [Hebrews 11:1](/hebrews/11-1 "Hebrews 11:1 - The Definition of Faith") as "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." The chapter then provides a chronological list of individuals—from Abel to the prophets—who exemplified this definition. Sarah's inclusion immediately follows the account of her husband, Abraham, whose faith in God's promise led him to leave his homeland and believe for a son from a barren wife ([Hebrews 11:8-10](/hebrews/11-8-10 "Hebrews 11:8-10 - Abraham's Faith and Obedience")). Her story serves to reinforce the principle that God's promises are fulfilled through faith, even when human circumstances seem utterly impossible, and that this faith is not exclusive to men but is equally demonstrated by women.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, barrenness was often considered a source of great shame and a sign of divine disfavor, while numerous offspring were seen as a profound blessing and a mark of God's favor. The promise of a vast lineage was central to God's covenant with Abraham ([Genesis 12:2](/genesis/12-2 "Genesis 12:2 - The Abrahamic Covenant Promise")). For Sarah, being "past age" (likely well into her nineties, as Abraham was 100 when Isaac was born, and Sarah was 90) meant that from a human, biological standpoint, conception was absolutely impossible. This context amplifies the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth, emphasizing that God operates outside the confines of natural human capabilities and societal expectations. The cultural premium on progeny made Sarah's barrenness a significant personal and social burden, making her eventual conception an even more profound demonstration of divine intervention.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Hebrews and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Power**, demonstrating that God's ability to act is not limited by human frailty or natural laws. The miraculous birth of Isaac, a child of promise, is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, underscoring God's faithfulness to His covenant ([Genesis 18:10-14](/genesis/18-10-14 "Genesis 18:10-14 - The Promise of Isaac's Birth")). Furthermore, it emphasizes the **Nature of True Faith**, portraying it not as mere optimism but as a settled conviction in God's character and word, even when circumstances contradict the promise. Sarah's journey, from initial laughter and doubt ([Genesis 18:12](/genesis/18-12 "Genesis 18:12 - Sarah's Laughter")) to eventual belief, illustrates that faith is often a process of growth and surrender to God's truth. Finally, the verse reinforces the theme of **God's Unwavering Faithfulness**, as Sarah's faith was ultimately rooted in her judgment that "him faithful who had promised." This echoes the consistent biblical portrayal of God as true to His word, a foundational truth for all who trust in Him, as seen throughout [the Scriptures](/psalms/89-34 "Psalm 89:34 - God's Unchanging Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **strength (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** This term, derived from the root for "to be able," refers to inherent power, ability, or might. In this context, it signifies a supernatural, divine enabling that allowed Sarah's body, naturally incapable of conception, to perform the biological function necessary for bearing a child. It points to God's miraculous power at work, not merely Sarah's natural resilience.
* **judged (Greek, _hēgéomai'_):** This word implies more than a casual thought; it denotes a deep consideration, a deliberate assessment, or a settled conviction. Sarah didn't just hope God would be faithful; she actively "judged" or "esteemed" Him as such. This suggests a rational, albeit faith-filled, conclusion drawn from God's character and past actions, leading to a firm reliance on His word.
* **faithful (Greek, _pistós'_):** This adjective can mean both "trustworthy" (describing God) and "trusting" (describing Sarah). Here, it primarily describes God's character: He is reliable, true to His word, and dependable. Sarah's faith was anchored in the absolute trustworthiness of the One who made the promise, recognizing His integrity and capacity to fulfill what He declared.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed":** This clause directly attributes Sarah's ability to conceive to her faith. The phrase "received strength" (δύναμιν ἔλαβεν) indicates a supernatural impartation of power, enabling her physically to do what was naturally impossible. It emphasizes that her conception was not a natural occurrence but a miraculous intervention by God, activated by her belief.
* **"and was delivered of a child when she was past age":** This part of the verse underscores the extraordinary circumstances of Isaac's birth. Sarah's age is explicitly mentioned to highlight the human impossibility of the event. The birth of a child, especially a son, was crucial for the continuation of Abraham's lineage and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, making this miraculous delivery a pivotal moment in redemptive history.
* **"because she judged him faithful who had promised":** This final clause provides the foundational reason for Sarah's supernatural experience: her settled conviction in God's faithfulness. Her faith was not a blind leap but a reasoned trust in the character of God, who had made a specific promise. She recognized God's integrity and ability to fulfill His word, regardless of the daunting natural obstacles. This highlights that true faith is rooted in the reliability of the Promiser, not in the favorable circumstances.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews employs several **literary devices** to emphasize the profound nature of Sarah's faith. **Contrast** is prominent, pitting Sarah's "past age" and natural inability against the divine "strength" she received, highlighting the miraculous intervention of God. This stark contrast magnifies God's power over human limitation. There is also a subtle **Irony** at play: Sarah initially laughed at the idea of conceiving in her old age ([Genesis 18:12](/genesis/18-12 "Genesis 18:12 - Sarah's Laughter")), yet here she is commended for her faith. This demonstrates a progression from skepticism to profound trust, underscoring the transformative power of God's word. Finally, the phrase "judged him faithful who had promised" functions as a **Theological Statement**, encapsulating the essence of biblical faith: it is a conviction rooted in the unwavering character of God Himself, rather than in the perceived likelihood of the outcome.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 11:11 profoundly connects to the overarching biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, especially concerning the miraculous birth of a child who would carry the messianic line. Sarah's story demonstrates that God's power is not constrained by human limitations or natural laws. Her faith, though initially wavering, ultimately rested on the absolute trustworthiness of God, who is always true to His word. This principle is foundational to understanding how God works throughout history, often choosing the weak and the impossible to display His glory and fulfill His divine purposes. Her experience serves as a timeless reminder that when God promises, His integrity guarantees fulfillment, even when the means are supernatural.

* [Romans 4:18-21](/romans/4-18-21 "Romans 4:18-21 - Abraham's Faith and God's Promise")
* [Luke 1:37](/luke/1-37 "Luke 1:37 - Nothing is Impossible with God")
* [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Will Not Return Void")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Sarah's story in Hebrews 11:11 offers profound encouragement for believers facing seemingly impossible situations or long-deferred hopes. It challenges us to examine the object of our faith: is it in our circumstances, our abilities, or the unshakeable character of God Himself? Just as Sarah's "past age" was no barrier to God's promise, our current limitations—whether physical, financial, emotional, or spiritual—do not hinder the Almighty. This verse calls us to move beyond mere optimism to a settled conviction, a "judging" of God as faithful, even when the evidence of our senses contradicts His word. It reminds us that God often waits until human effort is exhausted and natural solutions are impossible, so that when His promise is fulfilled, His glory alone is evident. Our faith is not in the *outcome* but in the *Promiser*.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "impossible" situation or long-deferred promise in your life is God calling you to trust Him for?**
* **How might you actively "judge Him faithful" in your current circumstances, rather than focusing on the obstacles?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to receive supernatural "strength" from God to accomplish His will?**

### FAQ

**Did Sarah always have this kind of strong faith?**
Answer: No, the biblical narrative indicates that Sarah initially laughed in disbelief when she overheard the promise of a son in her old age, questioning how such a thing could be ([Genesis 18:12](/genesis/18-12 "Genesis 18:12 - Sarah's Laughter")). This suggests a progression in her faith journey. Hebrews 11:11 highlights her eventual and decisive act of faith, focusing on the point where she "judged him faithful," indicating a transformation from skepticism to profound trust. This shows that faith can grow and overcome initial doubts, culminating in a firm reliance on God's character.

**What does it mean that she "judged him faithful who had promised"?**
Answer: The phrase "judged him faithful" (Greek: _hēgéomai pistós_) means she considered, esteemed, or concluded that God was absolutely trustworthy and reliable. It implies a deliberate mental and spiritual act of conviction. Her faith was not based on her own capacity or the natural order but on the unchangeable character of God. She recognized that the One who made the promise possessed both the integrity and the power to fulfill it, regardless of the human impossibility. This is a crucial aspect of biblical faith: it is anchored in the faithfulness of God Himself.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Sarah's miraculous conception, a birth "past age," finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Isaac's birth was a supernatural act, defying natural limitations to fulfill God's promise to Abraham, so too was the incarnation of Jesus. Mary, a virgin, conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit ([Luke 1:34-35](/luke/1-34-35 "Luke 1:34-35 - The Annunciation")), demonstrating that "with God nothing will be impossible" ([Luke 1:37](/luke/1-37 "Luke 1:37 - Nothing is Impossible with God")). Isaac, the child of promise, foreshadowed Christ, the ultimate Seed of Abraham through whom all nations would be blessed ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - Christ, the Seed of Abraham")). Furthermore, Sarah's faith in the Promiser points to the believer's faith in Christ, who is the embodiment of all God's promises ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - All God's Promises are 'Yes' in Christ")). Through His death and resurrection, Christ brings about a new creation, a spiritual birth for those who were "dead in trespasses and sins" ([Ephesians 2:1-5](/ephesians/2-1-5 "Ephesians 2:1-5 - Dead in Sin, Alive in Christ")), enabling them to receive new life from God, just as Sarah received strength to conceive life from God. The ultimate "strength to conceive seed" is the power of the Gospel to regenerate spiritually barren hearts into vibrant, fruitful disciples of Christ, fulfilling God's greatest promise of salvation and eternal life through His Son.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 4:20

He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;

Romans 4:21

And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

Hebrews 10:23

Let us hold fast the profession of [our] faith without wavering; (for he [is] faithful that promised;)

Genesis 18:11

Now Abraham and Sarah [were] old [and] well stricken in age; [and] it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women.

Genesis 18:14

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 21:1

¶ And the LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did unto Sarah as he had spoken.

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.