When Promises Seem to Contradict: A Deeper Look at God's Covenant with Abraham
In this article, you will learn how Acts 7:5 contradicts Genesis 13:15, Genesis 15:18, Genesis 17:8 and Genesis 28:13. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The biblical narrative in the Book of Acts, particularly 7:5, suggests an intriguing scenario where God did not give Abraham any physical inheritance in the form of land at first. Yet, He promised that Abraham's descendants would eventually inherit the land, even though Abraham did not have any children at the time. This paints a picture of faith and patience, highlighting that God keeps His promises, but possibly not in the way or timeframe we expect.
However, several accounts in Genesis seem to present a different view. Genesis 13:15 mentions that God gave the land to Abram and his descendants perpetually. Similarly, in Genesis 15:18, there's a depiction of God making a covenant with Abram, explicitly mentioning that his descendants will inherit a vast stretch of land. Further cementing this promise, Genesis 17:8 outlines God's pledge to give Abraham and his descendants the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession. Then, Genesis 28:13 comes into play, where God reiterates this promise to Jacob, Abraham’s grandson, ensuring him of the land inheritance.
These verses seem to expose a contradiction when put alongside Acts 7:5. It's akin to the situation of a parent who promises a child a gift in the future, yet in the present moment, the child feels the absence of that promised gift. The real question emerges: Was the promise unfulfilled, or is there a deeper understanding at play?
In theological discussions, such apparent contradictions invite us to explore the layers beneath the scriptures. Rather than disproving the promise, these varying accounts can demonstrate the complexity of divine timing and fulfillment. It's a reminder that while promises from God may be delayed or appear contradictory, they are not necessarily denied or untrue. How we reconcile these differences can offer profound insights into faith, expectation, and divine assurance.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Acts 7:5 | And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not [so much as] to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when [as yet] he had no child. |
| 2. | Genesis 13:15 | For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. |
| 3. | Genesis 15:18 | In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates: |
| 4. | Genesis 17:8 | And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God. [wherein...: Heb. of thy sojournings] |
| 5. | Genesis 28:13 | And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I [am] the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; |