What does Hebrews 11:19 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 11:19 is a reference to the faith of Abraham when he was tested by God to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice.

The verse suggests that Abraham had such strong faith that he believed God could raise Isaac from the dead, should it be necessary.

This event is considered by the author of Hebrews to be a figurative or symbolic instance anticipating the future resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Abraham's receipt of Isaac back (figuratively from the dead because he was on the brink of being sacrificed) is seen as a precursor to the resurrection of Christ.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of predominantly Jewish Christians, possibly in Rome or another major urban center, around 64–70 AD.

The historical context of this verse aligns with the early Christian community's efforts to understand Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and foreshadowings.

Abraham's binding of Isaac, known in Jewish tradition as the "Akedah," was and still is, a significant narrative found in Genesis 22.

The author of Hebrews uses this foundational story to illustrate the concept of faith and to connect the readers' Jewish heritage with their Christian faith.

Theological Insights

At a theological level, this verse encapsulates the concept of faith in God's promises and divine power. Different theological perspectives interpret this verse differently:

• In traditional Christian theology, the verse underscores God's sovereignty and power to bring life from death, reflecting the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Reformed theology emphasizes God's covenant with Abraham and the principle of sola fide (faith alone), as it was Abraham's faith in God that was reckoned as righteousness.
• Typological interpretation sees Isaac as a type of Christ, with Abraham's actions foreshadowing God the Father sacrificing His Son, Jesus.

Practical Applications

This verse can serve as an enduring example of faith in seemingly hopeless situations.

Practically, it can inspire individuals to trust in God's promises and provision, even when outcomes seem uncertain.

It also encourages believers to see beyond the immediate circumstances and hold onto the belief that God is capable of bringing forth life and hope when least expected.

Cross-References

• Genesis 22:1-14 – The original account of Abraham's test.
• Romans 4:17 – "(As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were."
• Hebrews 11:17 – "By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,"
• 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:"

Language Study

In this verse, the word "figuratively" translates from the Greek "παραβολῇ" (parabolē), which can mean parable, comparison, or figure. It implies that Isaac’s return to Abraham was a type or a shadow of what was to come with Christ's resurrection.

"Accounting," from the Greek "λογίζομαι" (logizomai), suggests a calculated conviction or consideration, indicating Abraham's logic was rooted in faith.

"Able to raise" in Greek, "ἐγείρω" (egeírō), is similar to the term used to describe Jesus’ resurrection, indicating power over death.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The idea of a father sacrificing his son can also be found in various ancient myths, such as the story of Agamemnon and Iphigenia in Greek mythology.

However, the key difference in the biblical narrative is God's intervention to prevent Isaac's death, signifying the sacred value of human life. This stands in contrast to many ancient religions where human sacrifice was practiced.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science does not support the literal resurrection of individuals from the dead.

However, scientific exploration into phenomena such as near-death experiences and the study of consciousness continue to push the boundaries of understanding life and death.

The verse does not interact directly with scientific principles but speaks to faith that transcends empirical evidence.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and commentaries reflect on Hebrews 11:19 with reverence for Abraham's faith:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes Abraham's faith in God's promise that through Isaac his seed would be called, considering it unbreakable even in the face of Isaac's potential death.
• The Pulpit Commentary notes that the return of Isaac to Abraham is seen as a symbol or figure of the resurrection.
• The Expositor's Bible Commentary discusses the testing of Abraham's faith as illustrating the ultimate form of trust in God's promises, contrasting human reasoning with faith-based assurance.