Abraham Deceives Abimelek
“The Genesis account records that Abraham once again lies about his true relationship with Sarah — this time to a pre-Philistine father-king whose titular name is Abimelek. Despite all his outstanding qualities, Abraham appears to have a tendency toward deception. Interestingly enough, that same character flaw will be seen again in his son and grandsons. It simply stands as a warning that even men and women of faith can lapse into great sin.
As a Canaanite, Abimelek is not a believer in the true God, and undoubtedly engages in common heathen practices. Yet he asserts in his defense to God that he has acted in good conscience, even if he is somehow still guilty in God’s eyes; then he responds to divine rebuke with repentance, generosity, and kindness.”
Read Genesis 20
The Birth of Isaac
“Even during a period of extended lifespans, with Abraham and 100 and Sarah at 90 years of age, in human terms childbirth would have been impossible.”
Read Genesis 21:1-7
Abraham and Abimelek Settle Dispute
“The Genesis account records Abimelek’s diplomatic move to protect his won political position by entering into a treaty of mutual peace with Abraham. Even in modern times the city of Beersheba, meaning Well of Seven or Well of the Oath, stands as a tribute to the amicable attitude with which these two men defused a potentially explosive situation.”
Read Genesis 21:22-34
Expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael
“Sarah knows that Ishmael, now a lad of 17, is mocking young Isaac, and that he also represents a threat to Isaac’s right of inheritance. It is therefore Sarah’s wish that Abraham cast out Ishmael, along with his mother, Hagar. Abraham is reluctant to do so but God, for his own reasons, instructs Abraham to do as Sarah has requested, and Abraham makes the painful separation.
As Ishmael and his mother wander through the desert region, and their supply of water finally runs out, Hagar lapses into despair. But God responds by providing a well of water, and he reassures Hagar that Ishmael will be the father of a nation.”
Read Genesis 21:8-21
All quotations taken from The Daily Bible
Like this:
Like Loading...
I Spy God 