Genesis 17:17-19; Genesis 18:12-13; Genesis 21:61. Isaac’ s Birth and Name (Genesis 17:17-19; Genesis 18:12-13; Genesis 21:6)
Like Christ’ s, Isaac’ s birth was miraculous, and his name foretold. His birth occurred in the divine line in which barrenness seemed to be prominent, and consequently miraculous and supernatural intervention was necessary. We should not fail to notice this fact in connection with the promised seed up to and including Christ.
Isaac’ s name means “ laughter,” and was, in all probability, a daily reminder, not only of Sarah’ s sin, but also of the faith of Sarah and Abraham. It was also a daily reminder of the power of God. Sarah could say, “ Now you may laugh with me, but you cannot laugh at me.” No doubt the birth of Isaac brought joy and gladness to Abraham and Sarah, just as did the birth of Jesus Christ to His mother and the world (cf. Luke 1:46-56; Luke 2:10).