16 Therefore, the promise comes by belief, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham's offspring -- not only to those who are of the law but also to those who are of the belief of Abraham.   He is the father of us all.

17 As it is written: "I have made you a father of many nations."   He is our father in the sight of the Almighty Ones -- the Almighty Ones who give life to the dead and call things that are not as though they are.

18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it was said to him, 'So shall your offspring be."