What does Genesis 22:1 mean?

The words "after these things" indicate that some time has passed since the events of Genesis 21. We will learn that Abraham is still living in Beersheba, but that Isaac has grown some. The last direct statement about Isaac's age referred to his being weaned (Genesis 21:8), which would have been around the age of two or three. In the upcoming verses, however, we see that Isaac can travel without his mother (Genesis 22:3–4), can converse in an adult manner (Genesis 22:7), and can carry wood for the sacrificial fire (Genesis 22:6). Later verses indicate that Isaac will be around 36 or 37 when his mother, Sarah dies at the age of 127 (Genesis 23:1). Most likely, he is at least a teenager when he climbs the mountain with his father.

Genesis chapter 22 will describe God's terrible test of Abraham's faith. The word "test" is to be understood as something clearly different from a "temptation." God will never tempt His people to do evil (James 1:13). We see God test His people in Scripture, though, asking them to trust Him and obey in spite of their difficult circumstances (Exodus 15:25; 20:20; Deuteronomy 8:2; 13:3; Judges 2:22). This is the key element missing when people misunderstand this part of Abraham's story. His obedience is based, not in blind faith, but in an experienced, established trust based on what he has already seen God do.

God began this test by calling Abraham, and Abraham responded appropriately, ready to hear what God would say to him.