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Hebrews 11:16
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Summary
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- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But now they desire a better - They all expected spiritual blessings, and a heavenly inheritance; they sought God as their portion, and in such a way and on such principles that he is not ashamed to be called their God; and he shows his affection for them by preparing for them a city, to wit, heaven, as themselves would seek no city on earth; which is certainly what the apostle has here in view. And from this it is evident that the patriarchs had a proper notion of the immortality of the soul, and expected a place of residence widely different from Canaan. Though to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the promises were made in which Canaan was so particularly included, yet God did not give them any inheritance in that country, no, not so much as to set a foot on; Act 7:5. Therefore, if they had not understood the promises to belong to spiritual things, far from enduring, as seeing him who is invisible, they must have considered themselves deceived and mocked. The apostle therefore, with the highest propriety, attributes their whole conduct and expectation to faith.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Proving the truth that the old fathers did not, as some assert, "look only for transitory promises" [Article VII, Book of Common Prayer]. now--as the case is. is not ashamed--Greek, "Is not ashamed of them." Not merely once did God call himself their God, but He is NOW not ashamed to have Himself called so, they being alive and abiding with Him where He is. For, by the law, God cannot come into contact with anything dead. None remained dead in Christ's presence (Luk 20:37-38). He who is Lord and Maker of heaven and earth, and all things therein, when asked, What is Thy name? said, omitting all His other titles, "I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob" [THEODORET]. Not only is He not ashamed, but glories in the name and relation to His people. The "wherefore" does not mean that God's good pleasure is the meritorious, but the gracious, consequence of their obedience (that obedience being the result of His Spirit's work in them in the first instance). He first so "called" Himself, then they so called Him. for--proof of His being "their God," namely, "He hath prepared (in His eternal counsels, Mat 20:23; Mat 25:34, and by the progressive acts of redemption, Joh 14:2) for them a city," the city in which He Himself reigns, so that their yearning desires shall not be disappointed (Heb 11:14, Heb 11:16). a city--on its garniture by God (compare Rev. 21:10-27).
John Gill Bible Commentary
By faith Abraham, when he was tried, .... Or tempted; that is, by God, Gen 22:1. This temptation or trial respects the command given by God to Abraham, to offer up his son Isaac; which lays no foundation for a charge against God, either of sin or cruelty; for God's will is the rule of justice and goodness, and whatever he requires is just and good; and though his creatures are bound by the laws he prescribes them, he himself is not: besides, he is the Lord of life, the giver and preserver of it; and he has a right to dispose of it, and to take it away, when, and by what means, and instruments, he thinks fit; to which may be added, that the secret will of God was not that Isaac should die, but a command was given to Abraham to offer him up, for the trial of his faith and love; this was a temptation of probation, not of seduction, or to sin, as are the temptations of Satan; for God tempts no man with sin. The Jews speak (x) of ten temptations, with which Abraham was tried, and in all which he stood; and say, that this of the binding of Isaac was the tenth and last. Offered up Isaac; he showed great readiness to do it; as soon as he had the command given him, he travelled three days' journey in order to it; took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it on his son; took fire, and a knife in his hand, with the one to burn the wood, with the other to slay his son; he built an altar, laid the wood in order on it; and bound his son, and laid him on that; and took the knife, and stretched forth his hand to slay him, and fully intended to do it, had he not been prevented: and all this he did by faith; he believed the equity, justice, and wisdom of the divine command; he was fully assured of the truth and faithfulness of God in his promises, however contrary this might seem thereunto; and he was strongly persuaded of the power of accomplishing them in some way or another. This was great faith, and it was greatly tried, as follows: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son; he had a promise made him that he should have a son, and that a numerous issue should spring from him, which should inherit the land of Canaan; yea, that the Messiah himself should be of his seed: and he had received these promises; given credit to them, and firmly believed them, and fully expected the performance of them; as he had reason to do, since the first was fulfilled, the son was born; and yet now he is called to offer him up, on whom his expectation was placed; everything was trying; it was an human creature he was called to offer, whose blood is not to be shed by man; a child of his own, a part of himself; a son, an own son; an only begotten son; a son whom he loved; an Isaac, a son of joy; a son of promise; and his heir, the son of his old age, and who was now a grown up person. The Jews are divided about the age of Isaac at his binding: Josephus (y) says he was twenty five years of age; others say twenty six (z); some say (a) thirty six: but the more prevailing opinion is (b), that he was thirty seven years of age; only Aben (c) Ezra makes him to be about thirteen; rejecting the more commonly received account, as well as that he was but five years old, that being an age unfit to carry wood. Some Christian writers have thought he might be about three and thirty years of age, the age of Christ when he suffered, of whom he was a type. (x) Targum in Cant. vii. 8. Pirke Eliezer, c. 26. & c. 31. Maimon. Jarchi & Bartenora in Misn. Abot, c. 5. sect. 3. (y) Antiqu. l. 1. c. 13. sect. 2. (z) Tzemach David, par. 1. fol. 6. 1. (a) Targum Jon. in Gen. xxii. 1. (b) Zohar in Gen. fol. 68. 2. & 74. 4. & 76. 2. Targ. Hieros. in Ex. xii. 42. Pirke Eliezer, c. 31, Juchasin, fol. 9. 1. Prefat. Echa Rabbati, fol. 40. 2. Seder Olam Rabba, c. 1. p. 3. Shalshelet Hakabala, fol. 3. 1. (c) In Gen. xxii. 4.
Hebrews 11:16
The Faith of Abraham and Sarah
15If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return.16Instead, they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews) 3-Cain and Abel
By Leonard Ravenhill19K1:07:54Cain and AbelGEN 3:16ROM 16:20HEB 11:4HEB 11:16HEB 11:39In this sermon, the preacher discusses various topics related to faith and obedience to God. He mentions the story of Noah and the ark, highlighting how God's plan was perfect and how people ridiculed and snarled at it. The preacher emphasizes the importance of holy character and how God can work through flesh and blood to magnify Christ. He also references the book of Hebrews, specifically chapter 11, which discusses the excellency, life, and achievements of faith. The sermon concludes with a reminder that trusting and obeying God may not always be easy, but it is necessary even when faced with opposition.
(Hebrews - Part 36): Long Range Faith
By A.W. Tozer4.7K26:34ExpositionalMAT 6:332TI 1:12HEB 11:13HEB 11:16HEB 11:35HEB 11:39In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a long-range view as a Christian. He contrasts the worldly pursuits of money, pleasure, career, and fame with the eternal promises of God. The preacher urges believers to wait on God and be on the right side when Jesus returns to gather the nations and separate the righteous from the wicked. He encourages Christians to embrace their identity as strangers and pilgrims on earth, living with a heavenly perspective and trusting in God's long-range plan for their lives.
Principles of Divine Sovereign
By T. Austin-Sparks2.2K38:11SovereigntyEXO 25:8EXO 40:34EXO 40:38MAT 6:33EPH 1:7HEB 11:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing God's purpose in our lives. He highlights the need to prioritize God's will over personal interests and considerations. The speaker encourages listeners to seek a deeper understanding of what God is trying to teach them in their current circumstances, as this is crucial for moving forward in their spiritual journey. He also reminds them of the importance of divine guidance in every aspect of life, using the example of Paul's journey to Rome despite facing numerous difficulties and setbacks.
The Glory of God - Part 4
By David Platt1.9K08:09MAT 16:24MRK 8:34PHP 3:20HEB 11:16HEB 13:14REV 7:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of risking everything for the mission of God, highlighting the dedication and sacrifice of believers in different parts of the world who prioritize the Word of God and the spread of His glory over their own comfort and safety. It challenges listeners to consider whether they are willing to risk it all for the sake of the Gospel and to choose devotion over mere religious practice.
Test of Sound Doctrine
By William MacDonald1.7K36:52Sound DoctrineMAT 6:33HEB 2:11HEB 11:161JN 5:11JN 5:41JN 5:6In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a young man who owes everything he has to his mother. The young man helps his mother get ready for an event and brings her along with him. He delivers a valedictory address and receives a gold medal, but instead of keeping it for himself, he pins it on his mother's dress, acknowledging that she deserves it. The preacher uses this story to illustrate how we owe everything to Jesus Christ and should confess and stand up for him. The sermon also touches on the reasons why some people may not be saved and emphasizes the importance of valuing and honoring our mothers.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 12
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K54:52Heavenly CallingHEB 1:4HEB 3:1HEB 3:14HEB 6:9HEB 7:19HEB 7:22HEB 8:6HEB 9:23HEB 10:34HEB 11:16HEB 11:35HEB 11:40HEB 12:24The sermon transcript discusses the theme of "better" in the book of Hebrews. The speaker highlights various verses in the book that emphasize the concept of "better," such as better than the angels, better things, better hope, better covenant, better promises, and better sacrifices. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a large conception of Jesus in order to navigate through trouble and testing. The letter was written to encourage Christians to persevere and not draw back from their faith, reminding them of their heavenly calling and the better things that await them.
Hebrews: Superiority of Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.6K1:07:41ChristHEB 2:1HEB 2:5HEB 2:9HEB 11:16HEB 11:35HEB 12:24In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the repetition of the word "better" in the book of Hebrews. He emphasizes that when a word is repeated so much, it indicates that the Holy Spirit is trying to convey an important message. The sermon highlights the finality of Christ's message compared to the partial and incomplete messages delivered by the prophets. The preacher also contrasts Christ with Moses, showing that Christ is superior and should be the focus of our attention and obedience.
Building - the Heavenly Pattern
By Stephen Kaung1.2K1:05:58PSA 127:1MAT 16:181CO 3:9HEB 8:5HEB 11:10HEB 11:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for humility before God and the importance of seeking more light from Him. He warns against the danger of becoming proud when we have some understanding of spiritual matters. The speaker uses the example of a blind man who initially saw people as trees, but with a second touch from the Lord, his vision was fully restored. The sermon also references Hebrews 8:5, which speaks of the representation and shadow of heavenly things, and Psalm 127, which highlights the importance of God's presence in our lives. Overall, the message encourages believers to continually seek God's guidance and to build their lives upon the foundation of Jesus Christ.
(The Sermon on the Mount and Prayer - Session 1) - Part 6
By Gerhard Du Toit1.2K04:56PrayerMAT 4:19JHN 3:3ACT 2:37ACT 9:31CO 2:42CO 2:15HEB 11:16In this sermon, the preacher describes a powerful church service where people encountered God and were sanctified and filled with the Holy Spirit. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being a great follower in order to become a great leader. The preacher shares a personal experience of encountering a disoriented man on the road and feeling compelled by God to speak to him. The man reveals that he had just come from the preacher's sermon and was under conviction of sin, leading to his conversion to Christianity.
A Desire to Depart
By David Wilkerson0Overcoming Fear of DeathEternal LifePSA 116:15JHN 14:2ROM 8:181CO 15:542CO 5:1PHP 1:211TH 4:142TI 4:7HEB 11:16REV 21:4David Wilkerson emphasizes that our mortal bodies are merely temporary shells that house the eternal life given to us by God. He explains that this eternal life grows within us, and when it reaches maturity, our physical bodies must be shed to embrace a new, glorious existence. Wilkerson encourages Christians to overcome the fear of death, as Paul did, recognizing that to die is to gain a greater life with the Lord. He urges believers to shift their focus from earthly ties to the anticipation of the heavenly city prepared for those who die in faith. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper desire to depart and be with the Lord, celebrating the victory of those who have passed on in Christ.
Psalms 116:15
By Chuck Smith0Hope in Eternal LifeThe Value of DeathPSA 116:15ISA 57:1JHN 14:2ROM 8:181CO 15:542CO 5:8PHP 1:211TH 4:14HEB 11:16REV 21:4Chuck Smith emphasizes that the death of a Christian is viewed as precious in the eyes of the Lord, highlighting that it is ordained and planned by God. He explains that while death is often feared, it signifies a release from the struggles of the physical body and an entrance into God's presence. Smith notes that God's love for His saints is evident in their trust during death, which contrasts with the divided love often experienced in life. Ultimately, the death of saints is a fulfillment of hope, ushering them into eternal life with God.
A Drop in a Bucket
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal PerspectiveGod's GreatnessPSA 73:26ISA 40:15LAM 3:24MAT 6:19ROM 8:181CO 2:92CO 4:17PHP 3:20COL 3:2HEB 11:16Thomas Brooks emphasizes the insignificance of worldly possessions and nations in comparison to the greatness of God, illustrating that all earthly achievements are merely drops in a bucket when weighed against the divine portion that belongs to believers. He uses the analogy of Alcibiades and Socrates to highlight the futility of pride in material wealth, reminding us that even the most expansive lands are but tiny specks in the grand scheme of creation. Brooks encourages the congregation to grasp the immeasurable value of their relationship with God, which far surpasses any earthly treasure, and to find hope and fulfillment in Him alone.
Ascension and Glory
By T. Austin-Sparks0Heavenly CitizenshipAscensionEPH 2:6COL 3:1HEB 11:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of Christ's ascension as a foundational truth for our spiritual life and purpose. He explains that while the death and resurrection of Jesus are often highlighted, His ascension is crucial for understanding our identity as citizens of heaven and our calling in Christ. Sparks illustrates that true spiritual life and service must originate from a heavenly perspective, as earthly pursuits ultimately fail to satisfy the spiritual hunger of believers. He encourages the church to recognize its heavenly citizenship and to live in a way that reflects this reality, culminating in the ultimate translation to glory at Christ's return.
Rev. 12:6. Strangership and Pilgrimage
By Horatius Bonar0Faith and PerseveranceStrangers And PilgrimsGEN 12:1EXO 16:11CH 29:15PSA 39:12MIC 2:10ACT 14:22HEB 11:10HEB 11:161PE 2:11REV 12:6Horatius Bonar emphasizes the Christian's identity as a stranger and pilgrim in this world, drawing parallels between the journey of the Church and the experiences of biblical figures like Abraham and Paul. He warns against the dangers of becoming too comfortable in worldly pursuits, which can lead to spiritual complacency and a loss of focus on the heavenly calling. Bonar illustrates that while earthly comforts may provide temporary relief, they can distract believers from their true purpose and destination. He encourages Christians to embrace their journey through life with faith, patience, and a readiness to endure hardships, always looking forward to the eternal city of God. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a life of holiness and separation from worldly influences, urging believers to follow the footsteps of the faithful who have gone before them.
Oneness With God in the Heavenly Nature of Everything (Continued)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthFaithJDG 14:3ROM 15:4GAL 5:1HEB 11:16HEB 11:39T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the theme of oneness with God through the experiences of Abraham, illustrating how the Old Testament figures, despite their mistakes, were part of a divine plan that is now revealed to us. He highlights that Abraham's journey reflects our spiritual pilgrimage, where mistakes serve as lessons for growth and understanding of God's promises. Sparks points out that God's dealings with His people often require them to learn through failures, as seen in Abraham's compromises and the consequences that followed. Ultimately, he encourages believers to recognize their calling to a supernatural life, relying solely on God to navigate their spiritual journey. The sermon concludes with the reminder that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have triumphed through faith.
The True Basis of Life for the Companions
By T. Austin-Sparks0Heavenly CallingFaith in GodJDG 7:7JHN 10:18ACT 7:20HEB 3:1HEB 4:14HEB 6:4HEB 8:1HEB 9:23HEB 11:16HEB 12:23T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the words 'heavenly' and 'faith' in the Christian life, particularly as presented in the Letter to the Hebrews. He illustrates how God consistently places His people on a supernatural basis, demonstrating that true faith involves trusting in God's ability to accomplish the impossible, as seen through biblical figures like Abraham, Jacob, and Joseph. Sparks encourages young Christians to understand that living a heavenly life is not limited to the afterlife but is a present reality grounded in faith. He concludes that faith is the belief that heaven can do what no earthly power can achieve, urging believers to rely on divine resources in seemingly hopeless situations.
The Crisis as to the Earthly and the Heavenly
By T. Austin-Sparks0Heavenly CallingPioneering FaithGEN 12:1NUM 13:1NUM 14:10PSA 139:23JHN 8:56ACT 2:23ROM 1:4GAL 3:16HEB 6:19HEB 11:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the ongoing conflict between the earthly and the heavenly, illustrating how the Old Testament figures, particularly Joshua and Caleb, serve as pioneers of the heavenly way. He highlights the need for believers to recognize their heavenly calling and to separate themselves from earthly standards, as true access to God requires a different basis than what the world offers. Sparks points out that the Church has largely become earthly in its approach, losing sight of its heavenly vision and purpose. He calls for a return to the pioneering spirit that seeks to fulfill God's heavenly purposes, despite the challenges and costs involved. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embrace their identity as pioneers, linking their faith to the greater heavenly reality embodied in Christ.
Immigrants
By D.L. Moody0SalvationJourney of FaithPSA 119:105ISA 55:1LUK 14:22JHN 6:63JHN 8:32ACT 8:4ROM 1:16ROM 5:12CO 12:92TH 1:3HEB 2:10HEB 3:7HEB 6:19HEB 11:162PE 3:10REV 10:6REV 22:17D.L. Moody emphasizes the urgency for immigrants in Immanuel's land to secure their places on the Gospel ship, which is the only vessel destined for eternal life. He describes the journey from the City of Destruction to Immanuel's Land, highlighting that the passage is free and available today, with Jesus Christ as the captain. The sermon illustrates the essential elements of the voyage, including faith, love, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, assuring that all passengers, saved by grace, will be provided for throughout their journey. Moody invites everyone to join this voyage, emphasizing the ample accommodations and the hope anchored in Christ.
And They Heard a Great Voice From Heaven Saying Unto Them
By C.H. Spurgeon0Heavenly AnticipationPatience in WaitingPSA 27:14JHN 14:2ROM 8:182CO 5:1PHP 3:201TH 4:16HEB 11:16JAS 5:71PE 2:11REV 4:1C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the joyful anticipation of believers for the heavenly call, encouraging them to look forward to the moment when they will be invited to 'come up hither.' He reminds the saints that their spirits should long for their true home in heaven, while also advocating for patience in waiting for God's perfect timing for their departure. Spurgeon reflects on the desire to do more good on earth, expressing that while the longing for heaven is strong, the work of serving God should continue until the appointed time. Ultimately, he encourages believers to find peace in either staying or going, as long as they remain in God's presence.
Desire and the End of the Age
By A.W. Tozer0Yearning for ChristThe Return of ChristMAT 6:19JHN 14:3ROM 8:18PHP 3:20COL 3:21TH 4:16HEB 11:162PE 3:121JN 3:2REV 22:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of a deep, personal yearning for the return of Christ, contrasting it with a mere intellectual understanding of eschatology. He argues that the modern church has often prioritized the utility of the cross over the beauty of Christ Himself, leading to a contractual relationship with Him rather than a personal one. This lack of emotional connection results in diminished anticipation for Christ's return, as many Christians find comfort in their current lives and material possessions. Tozer warns that this comfort can dull the desire for heavenly hope, which should be a vibrant part of a believer's faith. Ultimately, he calls for a rekindling of love and longing for Christ to restore the power of the advent hope.
Zion, the City of God
By George Warnock0PSA 46:4EZK 36:11ROM 4:13ROM 8:17HEB 1:2HEB 11:9HEB 11:16HEB 12:22George Warnock preaches about the contrast between the cities built by fallen men, which lead to corruption and chaos, and the heavenly city prepared by God for His people. He emphasizes the importance of God's men, like Abraham, who continue to seek a city with foundations built by God. Warnock uses the analogy of a father offering his estranged sons a vast inheritance, symbolizing God's promise of a heavenly city to His people. He challenges the audience to set their sights on the heavenly Jerusalem, the true Zion, where believers become heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ.
Remarks on Self-Denial
By Clement of Rome0MAT 19:121CO 7:34HEB 11:161PE 1:4Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of living a life dedicated to God, detached from worldly desires, and focused on serving God through Jesus Christ for the kingdom of heaven. He highlights the purity and holiness required, akin to the holy angels, and the special place reserved in God's house for those who choose a life of celibacy and virginity. Clement encourages believers to prioritize the heavenly hope promised by God over earthly pursuits, acknowledging the superior reward awaiting those who faithfully serve God.
The Vessels of Mercy and the Vessels of Wrath Delineated
By Samuel Davies0MIC 7:18JHN 3:3ROM 9:212CO 5:52CO 5:17EPH 2:3HEB 11:161PE 1:4Samuel Davies preaches about the distinction between the vessels of mercy and the vessels of wrath, illustrating how God prepares some for glory and others for destruction based on their dispositions and behaviors. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared for heaven by cultivating heavenly dispositions like love for God, delight in holiness, and fellowship with the saints. Davies warns about the dreadful consequences of being unfit for heaven and the inevitable misery that awaits those who persist in sinful and ungodly behaviors. He urges the listeners to reflect on their current state, seek divine grace for transformation, and take immediate steps towards spiritual renewal to avoid the wrath of God and secure a place in the heavenly inheritance.
A Place in Heaven - Gen. 1:16
By Bernard Fell0GEN 1:16ISA 45:18JHN 3:16HEB 11:16Bernard Fell preaches on the divine order of creation, highlighting the moon as Earth's satellite with borrowed light, ruling the night as queen, and the contrast of the moon's barrenness to Earth's fruitful seasons due to man's sin. He draws parallels between the moon landing by space-men and Jesus' peaceful mission to Earth, bearing the cost of sin on the cross. Fell emphasizes God's love and mercy in providing a heavenly home beyond the physical realm, urging listeners to prioritize the eternal gift of salvation over earthly pursuits.
Pilgrims or Citizens
By Derek Melton0ROM 12:22CO 6:17HEB 11:13HEB 11:16JAS 4:4Derek Melton delivers a powerful sermon on the unwavering faith and distinct separation of the patriarchs of the faith, who identified as strangers and pilgrims on earth, refusing to settle for earthly citizenship and embracing their heavenly birthright. These courageous saints endured persecution and suffering, yet their divine strength and supernatural abilities were directly linked to their heavenly citizenship. In contrast, modern Christianity has lost its pilgrim identity by embracing worldly practices, resulting in a lack of divine influence and a compromised witness to the world.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But now they desire a better - They all expected spiritual blessings, and a heavenly inheritance; they sought God as their portion, and in such a way and on such principles that he is not ashamed to be called their God; and he shows his affection for them by preparing for them a city, to wit, heaven, as themselves would seek no city on earth; which is certainly what the apostle has here in view. And from this it is evident that the patriarchs had a proper notion of the immortality of the soul, and expected a place of residence widely different from Canaan. Though to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the promises were made in which Canaan was so particularly included, yet God did not give them any inheritance in that country, no, not so much as to set a foot on; Act 7:5. Therefore, if they had not understood the promises to belong to spiritual things, far from enduring, as seeing him who is invisible, they must have considered themselves deceived and mocked. The apostle therefore, with the highest propriety, attributes their whole conduct and expectation to faith.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Proving the truth that the old fathers did not, as some assert, "look only for transitory promises" [Article VII, Book of Common Prayer]. now--as the case is. is not ashamed--Greek, "Is not ashamed of them." Not merely once did God call himself their God, but He is NOW not ashamed to have Himself called so, they being alive and abiding with Him where He is. For, by the law, God cannot come into contact with anything dead. None remained dead in Christ's presence (Luk 20:37-38). He who is Lord and Maker of heaven and earth, and all things therein, when asked, What is Thy name? said, omitting all His other titles, "I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob" [THEODORET]. Not only is He not ashamed, but glories in the name and relation to His people. The "wherefore" does not mean that God's good pleasure is the meritorious, but the gracious, consequence of their obedience (that obedience being the result of His Spirit's work in them in the first instance). He first so "called" Himself, then they so called Him. for--proof of His being "their God," namely, "He hath prepared (in His eternal counsels, Mat 20:23; Mat 25:34, and by the progressive acts of redemption, Joh 14:2) for them a city," the city in which He Himself reigns, so that their yearning desires shall not be disappointed (Heb 11:14, Heb 11:16). a city--on its garniture by God (compare Rev. 21:10-27).
John Gill Bible Commentary
By faith Abraham, when he was tried, .... Or tempted; that is, by God, Gen 22:1. This temptation or trial respects the command given by God to Abraham, to offer up his son Isaac; which lays no foundation for a charge against God, either of sin or cruelty; for God's will is the rule of justice and goodness, and whatever he requires is just and good; and though his creatures are bound by the laws he prescribes them, he himself is not: besides, he is the Lord of life, the giver and preserver of it; and he has a right to dispose of it, and to take it away, when, and by what means, and instruments, he thinks fit; to which may be added, that the secret will of God was not that Isaac should die, but a command was given to Abraham to offer him up, for the trial of his faith and love; this was a temptation of probation, not of seduction, or to sin, as are the temptations of Satan; for God tempts no man with sin. The Jews speak (x) of ten temptations, with which Abraham was tried, and in all which he stood; and say, that this of the binding of Isaac was the tenth and last. Offered up Isaac; he showed great readiness to do it; as soon as he had the command given him, he travelled three days' journey in order to it; took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it on his son; took fire, and a knife in his hand, with the one to burn the wood, with the other to slay his son; he built an altar, laid the wood in order on it; and bound his son, and laid him on that; and took the knife, and stretched forth his hand to slay him, and fully intended to do it, had he not been prevented: and all this he did by faith; he believed the equity, justice, and wisdom of the divine command; he was fully assured of the truth and faithfulness of God in his promises, however contrary this might seem thereunto; and he was strongly persuaded of the power of accomplishing them in some way or another. This was great faith, and it was greatly tried, as follows: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son; he had a promise made him that he should have a son, and that a numerous issue should spring from him, which should inherit the land of Canaan; yea, that the Messiah himself should be of his seed: and he had received these promises; given credit to them, and firmly believed them, and fully expected the performance of them; as he had reason to do, since the first was fulfilled, the son was born; and yet now he is called to offer him up, on whom his expectation was placed; everything was trying; it was an human creature he was called to offer, whose blood is not to be shed by man; a child of his own, a part of himself; a son, an own son; an only begotten son; a son whom he loved; an Isaac, a son of joy; a son of promise; and his heir, the son of his old age, and who was now a grown up person. The Jews are divided about the age of Isaac at his binding: Josephus (y) says he was twenty five years of age; others say twenty six (z); some say (a) thirty six: but the more prevailing opinion is (b), that he was thirty seven years of age; only Aben (c) Ezra makes him to be about thirteen; rejecting the more commonly received account, as well as that he was but five years old, that being an age unfit to carry wood. Some Christian writers have thought he might be about three and thirty years of age, the age of Christ when he suffered, of whom he was a type. (x) Targum in Cant. vii. 8. Pirke Eliezer, c. 26. & c. 31. Maimon. Jarchi & Bartenora in Misn. Abot, c. 5. sect. 3. (y) Antiqu. l. 1. c. 13. sect. 2. (z) Tzemach David, par. 1. fol. 6. 1. (a) Targum Jon. in Gen. xxii. 1. (b) Zohar in Gen. fol. 68. 2. & 74. 4. & 76. 2. Targ. Hieros. in Ex. xii. 42. Pirke Eliezer, c. 31, Juchasin, fol. 9. 1. Prefat. Echa Rabbati, fol. 40. 2. Seder Olam Rabba, c. 1. p. 3. Shalshelet Hakabala, fol. 3. 1. (c) In Gen. xxii. 4.