The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob – Lesson 4: Abraham and his Son

The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob
Lesson#4
“Abraham and his Son”
Rom. 4:3, 17-22; Gal. 4:23-26, 28,
Gen. 15:1-16:4a, 15-16

God’s Promise:

“After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, “Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and

thy exceeding great reward.”

                                                                   Gen. 15:1

 

Two reasons not to fear:

(1)     I am thy shield – No one could harm him.

(2)     I am thy exceeding – Whatever he lost he could find in God.

 

Justified by Faith, 15:4-6

God’s goal is not achieved through many, but through those he has begotten.

 

Thy Seed, 15:5

Seed refers to descendants, and not descendant.  The work of recovery would be through Christ, and not Isaac.  Isaac is a foreshadow of Christ, while Abraham serves as that of the Church.

 

The First Test – Birth of Ishmael, 16:1-6

 

In accordance with God’s promise, it was vital that Abraham hold fast to the word God had given him.  Instead he decided to assist God in this effort.  This, however brought about failure.

 

The Principle of Promise and The Principle of Ishmael

 

Begetting done through one’s self-effort is the result of Ishmael.  This is indicative of that performed by the flesh.

 

Grace and Law:

Hagar – Law; That which you do.

Sarah – Grace; That which God does in you.

 

No Life with Death, Rom. 4:16-21