Where is Paul's reference to Abraham's Descendant in the singular, not plural?
In Genesis I can only find references to Abraham's descendants and Paul seems to make a big thing of the singular descendant.
Galatians 3:16
ESV - 16 Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, "And to offsprings," referring to many, but referring to one, "And to your offspring," who is Christ.
Clarify
•
Share
•
Report
•
Asked February 26 2014
•
David Wood
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
JD Abshire
The seed, singular is referring to a specific genealogy, a chosen line of individuals from whom Messiah would come. Genesis 22:18 "And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice." Paul makes a distinction between Abraham's natural posterity (Israel after the flesh) and spiritual Israel in Romans 9. Pay special attention to verses 6-9. Rom 9:6 "Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:" Rom 9:7 "Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called." Rom 9:8 "That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed." Rom 9:9 "For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son." Rom 9:10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; Rom 9:11 For he children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) Rom 9:12 "It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger." Paul draws an allegory in Galatians 4:19-31 contrasting children after the flesh and children of the promise.
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible