In thy seed, &c.— To the observations heretofore made on this promise, let it be further remarked, that there is an increase of sense in these words; for God doth not only and simply say, they shall be blessed, but shall bless themselves, or count themselves blessed in him: To shew that this person, this promised Seed, the Messiah, should not stand in need of any blessing himself, as the rest of Abraham's seed did; but be the Author of all blessings unto others, who should derive them from him alone.
REFLECTIONS.—Those who honour God, God will honour. Abraham pleased God, and he shall not want his reward. Observe,
1. The covenant is confirmed by an oath, to multiply his seed, that by two immutable things he might have strong consolation.
2. The better blessing is promised; even that Messiah, in whom not one nation only, but all nations should be blessed; whose seed should exceed the stars; before whose victorious arms his enemies should bow; and sin, Satan, death, and hell, receive their final and fatal overthrow. Abraham's natural descendants were honourable, great, and numerous: but this incarnate Son of Abraham's race hath acquired for his people, blessing, glory, power, dominion, such as eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, nor hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive.