come down upon our sacrifices, we must drive them away, and seek to attend on God without
distraction.
Verses 12–16
A deep sleep fell upon Abram; with this sleep a horror of great darkness fell upon him: a sudden
change. The children of light do not always walk in the light. Several things were then foretold. 1.
The suffering state of Abram's seed for a long time. They shall be strangers. The heirs of heaven
are strangers on earth. They shall be servants; but Canaanites serve under a curse, the Hebrews
under a blessing. They shall be suffers. Those that are blessed and beloved of God, are often sorely
afflicted by wicked men. 2. The judgment of the enemies of Abram's seed. Though God may allow
persecutors and oppressors to trample upon his people a great while, he will certainly reckon with
them at last. 3. That great event, the deliverance of Abram's seed out of Egypt, is here foretold. 4.
Their happy settlement in Canaan. They shall come hither again. The measure of sin fills gradually.
Some people's measure of sin fills slowly. The knowledge of future events would seldom add to
our comfort. In the most favoured families, and most happy lives, there are so many afflictions,
that it is merciful in God to conceal what will befall us and ours.
Verses 17–21
The smoking furnace and the burning lamp, probably represented the Israelites' severe trials
and joyful deliverance, with their gracious supports in the mean time. It is probable that this furnace
and lamp, which passed between the pieces, burned and consumed them, and so completed the
sacrifice, and testified God's acceptance of it. So it intimates that God's covenants with man are
made by sacrifice, Ps 50:5. And we may know that he accepts our sacrifices, if he kindles in our
souls pious and devout affections. The bounds of the land granted are stated. Several nations, or
tribes, are spoken of, that must be cast out to make room for the seed of Abram. In this chapter we
perceive in Abram faith struggling against, and triumphing over, unbelief. Wonder not, believers,
if you meet with seasons of darkness and distress. But it is not the will of God that you should be
cast down: fear not; for all that he was to Abram he will be to you.
Chapter 16
Chapter Outline
Sarai gives Hagar to Abram. (1–3)
Hagar's misbehaviour to Sarai. (4–6)
The Angel commands Hagar to return, The (7–16)
promise to her Birth of Ishmael.Verses 1–3