Genesis - Part 36

Genesis 21 — Part One

‘The fruit of the womb is the gift of God;’ (Psalm 127:3)

“The Lord did unto Sarah as He had spoken.”

Meeting Purpose

To discuss Chapter 21 of Genesis, focusing on the birth of Isaac and the expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael.

Key Takeaways

-             God's intervention in Sarah's conception of Isaac is highlighted as a significant event, comparable to other major divine interventions in biblical history.

-             The expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael is linked to ancient laws (Lippit-Ishtar) and has theological implications explored in the New Testament.

-             God's promise to Abraham extends to Ishmael, despite his exile, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenants.

-             The story emphasizes God's sovereignty and the importance of recognizing His blessings, even in challenging circumstances.

Topics

Biblical Exegesis of Genesis 21

-             Detailed analysis of verses, focusing on God's visitation to Sarah and the birth of Isaac

-             Abraham's obedience in naming and circumcising Isaac as commanded by God

-             The weaning feast for Isaac and the subsequent conflict with Ishmael's mocking

-             Sarah's demand for Hagar and Ishmael's expulsion, supported by God's instruction to Abraham

Historical and Legal Context

-             Reference to laws of Lippit-Ishtar, predating Mosaic law, explaining the legal basis for Sarah's demand

-             Cultural context of weaning celebrations and their significance in ancient times

Theological Implications

-             Paul's interpretation in Galatians, comparing Ishmael (flesh) and Isaac (spirit)

-             God's continued provision for Hagar and Ishmael despite their exile

-             Exploration of God's promises and their fulfillment, even in unexpected ways

Character Analysis

-             Ishmael's prophecy as a "wild donkey of a man" (Gen 16:12) and its fulfillment

-             Hagar's experience in the wilderness and God's intervention

-             Abraham's internal conflict and obedience to both Sarah and God

Application and Reflection

-             Discussion on recognizing God's blessings in our lives, even when not immediately apparent

-             Reflection on God's faithfulness to His promises, extending beyond immediate recipients

-             Consideration of how God uses challenging situations (e.g., Ishmael's strength) for His purposes

Next Steps

-             Continue study of Genesis, focusing on the themes of God's promises and their fulfillment

-             Explore further connections between Old Testament narratives and New Testament theology

-             Reflect on personal applications of the lessons learned from Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael's experiences

Takeaways

-             Each successful birth is from God, so each mother can be viewed as having been visited by God at conception.

-             However, the visitation of Sarah is given much greater significance in verse one of Genesis chapter twenty-one.

-             Sarah is rejuvenated miraculously from being “dried up” at 90, to being able to conceive and suckle Isaac from birth to weening.  

-             Abraham was faithful in naming Isaac and circumcising him.

-             At the weening feast Ishmael scoffs at Gods provision of Isaac.

-             Sarah demands that Hagar and her son be cast out (“freed”) and thereby disinherited.

-             God tells Abraham not to be displeased with Sarah and that He would provide for Hagar and Ishmael such that through Ishmael He would also establish a nation.

-              Genesis 16:12 - “He shall be a wild man; His hand shall be against every man, And every man’s hand against him. And he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren.” 

-             Neither Hagar nor Ishmael are said to have prayed to God.

-             Rather, God hears their distress and assists them because of what He had promised Abraham.