The delays are an intentional nod to false promises (a la
the Great Disappointment) in Christian eschatology and meant to remind us that "... of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone" (Matthew 24:36). Thus, the album will be released as a surprise drop instead of as a scheduled release.
This thematic attention to detail is just yet another example of the artistic genius that permeates every level of Kanye's music and leaves me feeling optimistic about his new identity as a gospel virtuoso.