Promise — Meaning in the Bible
A commitment to do something in the future. The Bible is built around God's promises: to Noah, to Abraham, to David, and the promise of the Spirit.
Scripture in WEBWorld English Bible — Protestant Edition
What it means
God promised Abraham descendants, land and blessing for all nations, and Sarah laughed because she was old. Hebrews says Abraham obtained the promise after patiently waiting. Genesis 12:1–3Genesis 18:10–14Hebrews 6:13–15
Jesus told his disciples to wait for "the promise of the Father", the Holy Spirit. Paul says all God's promises are "Yes" in Christ. Acts 1:4–52 Corinthians 1:20
Key passages
- Genesis 12:1–3 — The promise to Abraham.
- Genesis 18:10–14 — Is anything too hard for the LORD?
- Joshua 21:45 — Not one good promise failed.
- Acts 1:4–5 — The promise of the Father.
- 2 Corinthians 1:20 — Yes in Christ.
For children
A promise is when someone says they will do something and then does it. God promised Abraham and Sarah a son, and Isaac was born. Genesis 21:1–3