Genesis 20-22
God now insures His part in providing the Seed. Isaac is born. Ishmael mocks Isaac (21:8-10), a clear rebellion against the promise of the Seed residing in Isaac. Now the son of promise cannot coexist with the son of works, who blasphemes, and Ishmael is sent away (demonstrating no inheritance through the works of the flesh). The inheritance of the father, Abraham (the Seed, the land) belongs to Isaac who was provided supernaturally by God. Ishmael, on the other hand, came by the works of Abraham and Sarah’s human wisdom, and thus could not demonstrate God’s glory, but only man’s human wisdom. Thus Ishmael is sent away, but still given a blessing due to his relationship with Abraham. Abraham is reaffirming his trust in God’s promise by sending Ishmael away so there is no conflict with who is the inheritor.
This is the climax of Abraham’s sanctification. It began in Gen. 12, continued through the confession of his faith in 15:6 and now comes to the point where God wants him, the representative of God, to be a man who relies in God’s word alone. Abraham has now acted for God, acting out His promises in giving his only son. Isaac. This anticipates God, and the Nation Israel, who must give up their Son for their sake and the sake of the world. Yet, the ultimate sacrifice is not yet to be, and Isaac is not the one, so a ram is provided. The anticipation continues. The scene is reminiscent of God’s sacrifice of the animal in Genesis 3.
Dr. Charles Baylis
Video
Chapter 20
Chapters 21-22
Audio
Commentary
Links & Sources
TeachMeTheBible.com - Dr. David Klingler
The Spring Church Sermons - Prof Caleb Foley
Traceway Church Sermons - Dr. Nathan Tullos
TheBiblicalStory.org - Dr. Charles Baylis
