Hebrews 6:15
And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 6
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
μακροθυμήσας
after he had patiently endured
G3114
μακροθυμήσας
after he had patiently endured
Strong's:
G3114
Word #:
3 of 6
to be long-spirited, i.e., (objectively) forbearing or (subjectively) patient
ἐπέτυχεν
he obtained
G2013
ἐπέτυχεν
he obtained
Strong's:
G2013
Word #:
4 of 6
to chance upon, i.e., (by implication) to attain
Historical Context
Abraham received the promise at age 75 (Genesis 12:4) but Isaac wasn't born until Abraham was 100 (Genesis 21:5). This quarter-century of waiting tested and refined Abraham's faith, making him the exemplar of faith (Romans 4).
Questions for Reflection
- How does Abraham's long wait encourage patient faith in God's timing?
- What promises of God are you waiting to see fulfilled, and how do you maintain faith during the wait?
Analysis & Commentary
After patient endurance ('makrothumēsas' - long-suffering), Abraham 'obtained the promise.' This illustrates the Reformed doctrine of perseverance - true faith endures to receive the promised inheritance. Abraham waited 25 years from promise to Isaac's birth, demonstrating that God's timetable differs from ours. Faith means trusting God's promise even through long delay.