Genesis 17:20
“And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed.”
King James Version
God's promise to multiply Ishmael into a great nation, fulfilled in the twelve princes of Ishmael.
Fulfillment References
Genesis 25:12-18 Galatians 4:22-23
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal'Of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed.' God hears Abraham for Ishmael and promises him twelve princes and a great nation — fulfilled literally (Gen. 25:12-16). Yet the covenant line of promise runs through Isaac (v. 21); God's faithfulness to Ishmael shows His mercy even outside the covenant line, while the Seed of blessing for all nations is Christ.
JewishGod's blessing of Ishmael with fruitfulness and twelve princes, while establishing the covenant specifically with Isaac; the son of promise distinguished from the son of the flesh.
CatholicGod's care for Ishmael, even as the covenant passes through Isaac; read with Paul's allegory (Gal. 4).
ProtestantThe literal fulfillment in Ishmael's descendants (twelve princes), distinguished from the covenant line of Isaac; flesh vs. promise (Gal. 4).
AcademicAn etiological promise explaining the twelve Ishmaelite tribes (Gen. 25:12-16); the narrative separates Ishmael's blessing from the covenant heir.
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Bible Prophecy Explorer · based on J. Barton Payne’s Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy catalogue · an openly Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal study resource — all traditions presented fairly. Pastor: C. Myles Young, PhD · Bishop: Nathaniel J. Wilson, Ed.D.