What event in Genesis Chapter 21 is the focus of today’s discussion, and what makes it miraculous?

• Today’s discussion centers on the miracle of the birth of Isaac as recounted in Genesis Chapter 21. God promised Abraham and Sarah a child despite their old age, with Abraham being 100 years old and Sarah 90 years old when Isaac was born. This miraculous birth serves as a testament to God’s power and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

What is the significance of the names “Isaac” and “Ishmael” in relation to their births?

• The name “Isaac” means “he laughs,” reflecting the laughter of disbelief and astonishment expressed by Abraham and Sarah when they learned of Sarah’s pregnancy. It signifies the joy and wonder of God’s miraculous intervention in their lives. Conversely, “Ishmael” represents the child born from human effort and lack of faith, as Hagar bore him at Sarah’s behest, illustrating the contrast between divine fulfillment and human striving.

Describe the feast Abraham holds when Isaac begins to eat solid food, and what role does Ishmael play?

• Abraham throws a celebratory feast to mark the transition of Isaac from nursing to eating solid food. However, Ishmael, who is around 12 or 13 years old at the time, mocks and laughs at Isaac during the feast, expressing resentment and rivalry towards his younger half-brother.

How does Sarah react to Ishmael’s behavior, and what action does she propose to Abraham?

• Sarah becomes upset upon witnessing Ishmael’s mockery of Isaac and insists that Abraham take decisive action to address the situation. She urges Abraham to send Ishmael and his mother, Hagar, away to prevent further conflict and ensure Isaac’s rightful inheritance as the promised son.

What reassurance does God provide to Abraham regarding Ishmael’s fate, and how does Abraham respond?

• God instructs Abraham to heed Sarah’s request and assures him that He will take care of Ishmael and bless him as well, in accordance with His promises to Abraham. Abraham trusts in God’s guidance and agrees to send Hagar and Ishmael away, demonstrating obedience to both Sarah and God.

How does the Apostle Paul use the story of Isaac and Ishmael to illustrate the difference between the old and new covenants?

• Paul draws a parallel between Isaac, born miraculously as the child of promise, and Ishmael, born through human effort and self-reliance. He contrasts the new covenant, characterized by spiritual rebirth through God’s miraculous work, with the old covenant of legalism and human striving. Paul emphasizes the necessity of divine intervention for spiritual transformation, likening Isaac’s birth to the believer’s experience of being born again through faith in Jesus Christ.

What overarching lesson does the story of Isaac and Ishmael teach about God’s faithfulness and promise-keeping?

• The birth of Isaac and the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah underscore God’s faithfulness in keeping His word. Despite the seemingly impossible circumstances, God demonstrates His power to fulfill His promises and bring about His divine purposes. The contrast between Isaac and Ishmael highlights the importance of trusting in God’s provision rather than relying on human effort or ingenuity.