Genesis 21
BSB1 Now the LORD attended to Sarah as He had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what He had promised. 2 So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised. 3 And Abraham gave the name Isaac to the son Sarah bore to him. 4 When his son Isaac was eight days old, Abraham circumcised him, as God had commanded him. 5 Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. 6 Then Sarah said, “God has made me laugh, and everyone who hears of this will laugh with me." 7 She added, “Who would have told Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age." 8 So the child grew and was weaned, and Abraham held a great feast on the day Isaac was weaned. 9 But Sarah saw that the son whom Hagar the Egyptian had borne to Abraham was mocking her son, 10 and she said to Abraham, “Expel the slave woman and her son, for the slave woman’s son will never share in the inheritance with my son Isaac!" 11 Now this matter distressed Abraham greatly because it concerned his son Ishmael. 12 But God said to Abraham, “Do not be distressed about the boy and your maidservant. Listen to everything that Sarah tells you, for through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned. 13 But I will also make a nation of the slave woman’s son, because he is your offspring." 14 Early in the morning, Abraham got up, took bread and a skin of water, put them on Hagar’s shoulders, and sent her away with the boy. She left and wandered in the Wilderness of Beersheba. 15 When the water in the skin was gone, she left the boy under one of the bushes. 16 Then she went off and sat down nearby, about a bowshot away, for she said, “I cannot bear to watch the boy die!” And as she sat nearby, she lifted up her voice and wept. 17 Then God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven, “What is wrong, Hagar? Do not be afraid, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he lies. 18 Get up, lift up the boy, and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation." 19 Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. 20 And God was with the boy, and he grew up and settled in the wilderness and became a great archer. 21 And while he was dwelling in the Wilderness of Paran, his mother got a wife for him from the land of Egypt. 22 At that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army said to Abraham, “God is with you in all that you do. 23 Now, therefore, swear to me here before God that you will not deal falsely with me or my children or descendants. Show to me and to the country in which you reside the same kindness that I have shown to you." 24 And Abraham replied, “I swear it." 25 But when Abraham complained to Abimelech about a well that Abimelech’s servants had seized, 26 Abimelech replied, “I do not know who has done this. You did not tell me, so I have not heard about it until today." 27 So Abraham brought sheep and cattle and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a covenant. 28 Abraham separated seven ewe lambs from the flock, 29 and Abimelech asked him, “Why have you set apart these seven ewe lambs?" 30 He replied, “You are to accept the seven ewe lambs from my hand as my witness that I dug this well." 31 So that place was called Beersheba, because it was there that the two of them swore an oath. 32 After they had made the covenant at Beersheba, Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army got up and returned to the land of the Philistines. 33 And Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called upon the name of the LORD, the Eternal God. 34 And Abraham resided in the land of the Philistines for a long time.
Study Notes — Genesis 21
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Genesis 21
- Themes from Genesis 21
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Genesis 21
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Genesis 21 begins with the birth of Isaac, the son of promise, to Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 21:1-7). The chapter then recounts the expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael from Abraham's household, as well as God's provision and promise to Hagar and her son (Genesis 21:8-21). The chapter concludes with Abraham's treaty with Abimelech, king of Gerar, and the establishment of a well at Beersheba (Genesis 21:22-34). Throughout the chapter, we see God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people, even in the midst of conflict and uncertainty.
Context for the Chapter
Genesis 21 is part of the larger narrative of God's covenant with Abraham, which began in Genesis 12. The chapter follows the story of Abraham's faith and obedience, as well as the promise of a son to Abraham and Sarah. The chapter also sets the stage for the stories of Isaac, Esau, and Jacob, which follow in the subsequent chapters. In the broader biblical narrative, Genesis 21 is significant because it highlights God's faithfulness to His promises and sets the stage for the fulfillment of those promises in the person of Jesus Christ.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Genesis 21, we are reminded of God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people. This should encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty and conflict. We should also be mindful of the importance of covenant and the significance of God's promises in our lives, seeking to live in obedience to His will and to trust in His faithfulness.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Genesis 21 tells the story of the birth of Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, and the conflict between Isaac and Ishmael. The chapter reminds us of God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people. We see this in Genesis 21:1, where God visits Sarah and fulfills His promise to her. We also see it in Genesis 21:17-19, where God provides for Hagar and Ishmael in the wilderness.
Voices from the Church
“The birth of Isaac is a remarkable example of God's power and goodness, and it serves as a reminder of His faithfulness to His promises.”
— John Calvin
“The story of Hagar and Ishmael is a solemn reminder of the dangers of fleshly confidence and the importance of trusting in God's promises alone.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- The Birth of Isaac (Genesis 21:1-7) — The chapter begins with the birth of Isaac, the son of promise, to Abraham and Sarah. This event is a direct result of God's intervention and fulfillment of His promise to Abraham and Sarah.
- The Expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael (Genesis 21:8-21) — The chapter then recounts the expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael from Abraham's household, as well as God's provision and promise to Hagar and her son.
- The Treaty with Abimelech (Genesis 21:22-32) — The chapter concludes with Abraham's treaty with Abimelech, king of Gerar, and the establishment of a well at Beersheba. This event highlights God's provision and care for Abraham and his household.
- The Significance of the Well at Beersheba (Genesis 21:33-34) — The well at Beersheba serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises and His provision for His people. It also highlights the importance of covenant in God's relationship with His people.
- Conclusion (Genesis 21:1-34) — The chapter as a whole highlights God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty and conflict.
Core Doctrines
- The Doctrine of God's Faithfulness
- Genesis 21 teaches us about God's faithfulness to His promises, as seen in the birth of Isaac and the provision for Hagar and Ishmael. This doctrine reminds us that God is reliable and trustworthy, and that He will fulfill His promises to His people.
- The Doctrine of Covenant
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of God's covenant promises to Abraham, which are fulfilled in the birth of Isaac and the establishment of the well at Beersheba. This doctrine highlights the significance of covenant in God's relationship with His people.
- The Doctrine of Providence
- Genesis 21 demonstrates God's providential care for His people, as seen in the provision for Hagar and Ishmael and the establishment of the well at Beersheba. This doctrine reminds us that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and directing them according to His will.
- The Doctrine of the Flesh and the Spirit
- The chapter highlights the contrast between the flesh and the Spirit, as seen in the story of Isaac and Ishmael. This doctrine reminds us that the flesh is opposed to the Spirit, and that we must trust in God's promises and provision rather than our own strength and abilities.
Lessons from Genesis 21
- The Importance of Trusting in God's Promises — Genesis 21 teaches us the importance of trusting in God's promises and provision, rather than our own strength and abilities. This lesson is seen in the birth of Isaac and the provision for Hagar and Ishmael.
- The Dangers of Fleshly Confidence — The story of Hagar and Ishmael serves as a reminder of the dangers of fleshly confidence and the importance of trusting in God's promises alone.
- The Significance of Covenant — The chapter highlights the importance of covenant in God's relationship with His people, as seen in the establishment of the well at Beersheba. This lesson reminds us of the significance of covenant in our own lives and our relationship with God.
- The Provision of God — Genesis 21 demonstrates God's providential care for His people, as seen in the provision for Hagar and Ishmael and the establishment of the well at Beersheba. This lesson reminds us that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and directing them according to His will.
- The Faithfulness of God — The chapter as a whole highlights God's faithfulness to His promises, as seen in the birth of Isaac and the provision for Hagar and Ishmael. This lesson reminds us that God is reliable and trustworthy, and that He will fulfill His promises to His people.
Themes from Genesis 21
- The Theme of Promise — Genesis 21 is centered on the theme of promise, as seen in the birth of Isaac and the provision for Hagar and Ishmael. This theme reminds us of God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people.
- The Theme of Covenant — The chapter highlights the importance of covenant in God's relationship with His people, as seen in the establishment of the well at Beersheba. This theme reminds us of the significance of covenant in our own lives and our relationship with God.
- The Theme of Providence — Genesis 21 demonstrates God's providential care for His people, as seen in the provision for Hagar and Ishmael and the establishment of the well at Beersheba. This theme reminds us that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and directing them according to His will.
- The Theme of Faith and Obedience — The chapter highlights the importance of faith and obedience, as seen in Abraham's trust in God's promises and his obedience to God's commands. This theme reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty and conflict.
- The Theme of Redemption — Genesis 21 foreshadows the theme of redemption, as seen in the contrast between Isaac and Ishmael. This theme reminds us of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the redeemer of God's people.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the birth of Isaac teach us about God's faithfulness to His promises?
- How does the story of Hagar and Ishmael serve as a reminder of the dangers of fleshly confidence?
- What significance does the well at Beersheba hold in the narrative of Genesis 21?
- How does the chapter highlight the importance of covenant in God's relationship with His people?
- What lessons can we learn from Abraham's faith and obedience in Genesis 21?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Birth of Isaac (Genesis 21:1-7)
| Genesis 21:1 | The Lord visited Sarah as He had said, and the Lord did to Sarah as He had promised. This verse highlights God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people. |
| Genesis 21:2 | So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the appointed time of which God had spoken to him. This verse emphasizes the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah. |
| Genesis 21:3 | And Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore to him, Isaac. This verse highlights the significance of Isaac's name and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah. |
| Genesis 21:4 | Then Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him. This verse emphasizes Abraham's obedience to God's commands and the significance of circumcision as a sign of covenant. |
| Genesis 21:5 | Now Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. This verse highlights the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah. |
| Genesis 21:6 | And Sarah said, "God has made me laugh, and all who hear will laugh with me." This verse emphasizes Sarah's joy and amazement at the birth of Isaac and the fulfillment of God's promise to her. |
| Genesis 21:7 | She also said, "Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? For I have borne him a son in his old age." This verse highlights the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah. |
2. The Expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael (Genesis 21:8-21)
| Genesis 21:8 | So the child grew and was weaned. And Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned. This verse highlights the significance of Isaac's weaning and the celebration of Abraham's household. |
| Genesis 21:9 | But Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, laughing. This verse emphasizes the tension between Sarah and Hagar, as well as the significance of Isaac as the son of promise. |
| Genesis 21:10 | Therefore she said to Abraham, "Cast out this bondwoman and her son; for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, with Isaac." This verse highlights Sarah's concern for Isaac's inheritance and her desire to protect him from Hagar and Ishmael. |
| Genesis 21:11 | And the matter was very displeasing in Abraham's sight because of his son. This verse emphasizes Abraham's love for Ishmael and his reluctance to expel Hagar and her son. |
| Genesis 21:12 | But God said to him, "Do not let it be displeasing in your sight because of the lad or because of your bondwoman. Whatever Sarah has said to you, listen to her voice; for in Isaac your seed shall be called." This verse highlights God's command to Abraham to obey Sarah and to trust in His promise to Isaac. |
| Genesis 21:13 | Yet I will also make a nation of the son of the bondwoman, because he is your seed." This verse emphasizes God's promise to Hagar and Ishmael, and the significance of Ishmael as a son of Abraham. |
| Genesis 21:14 | So Abraham rose early in the morning, and took bread and a skin of water, and gave them to Hagar, and sent her away with her son. This verse highlights Abraham's obedience to God's command and his provision for Hagar and Ishmael. |
| Genesis 21:15 | And the water in the skin was used up, and she placed the boy under one of the shrubs. This verse emphasizes Hagar's desperation and her trust in God's provision for her and her son. |
| Genesis 21:16 | Then she went and sat down across from him at a distance of about a bowshot; for she said to herself, "Let me not see the death of the boy." So she sat opposite him, and lifted her voice and wept. This verse highlights Hagar's emotional distress and her trust in God's care for her and her son. |
| Genesis 21:17 | And God heard the voice of the lad. Then the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said to her, "What ails you, Hagar? Do not fear, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is." This verse emphasizes God's care for Hagar and Ishmael, and His provision for them in the wilderness. |
| Genesis 21:18 | Arise, lift up the lad and hold him with your hand, for I will make him a great nation." This verse highlights God's promise to Hagar and Ishmael, and the significance of Ishmael as a son of Abraham. |
| Genesis 21:19 | Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the skin with water, and gave the lad a drink. This verse emphasizes God's provision for Hagar and Ishmael, and the significance of the well as a symbol of God's care for them. |
| Genesis 21:20 | So God was with the lad; and he grew and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer. This verse highlights God's care for Ishmael and his growth and development in the wilderness. |
| Genesis 21:21 | He dwelt in the Wilderness of Paran; and his mother took a wife for him from the land of Egypt. This verse emphasizes Ishmael's marriage and his establishment in the wilderness, as well as God's provision for him and his family. |
3. The Treaty with Abimelech (Genesis 21:22-32)
| Genesis 21:22 | And it came to pass at that time that Abimelech and Phichol the commander of his army spoke to Abraham, saying, "God is with you in all that you do." This verse highlights Abimelech's recognition of God's presence and blessing in Abraham's life. |
| Genesis 21:23 | Now therefore, swear to me by God that you will not deal falsely with me, with my offspring, or with my posterity; but that according to the kindness that I have shown you, you will show kindness to me and to the land in which you have sojourned." This verse emphasizes Abimelech's desire for a treaty with Abraham and his recognition of Abraham's faithfulness to God. |
| Genesis 21:24 | And Abraham said, "I will swear." This verse highlights Abraham's agreement to the treaty and his commitment to faithfulness and kindness towards Abimelech and his people. |
| Genesis 21:25 | Then Abraham rebuked Abimelech because of a well of water which Abimelech's servants had seized. This verse emphasizes the conflict between Abraham and Abimelech over the well, and Abraham's desire to protect his rights and interests. |
| Genesis 21:26 | And Abimelech said, "I do not know who has done this thing; you did not tell me, nor did I hear of it until today." This verse highlights Abimelech's denial of knowledge and his desire to make things right with Abraham. |
| Genesis 21:27 | So Abraham took sheep and oxen and gave them to Abimelech, and the two of them made a covenant. This verse emphasizes the establishment of the treaty between Abraham and Abimelech, and the significance of the covenant as a symbol of their friendship and mutual commitment. |
| Genesis 21:28 | And Abraham set apart seven ewe lambs of the flock by themselves. This verse highlights Abraham's provision for the treaty and his desire to establish a clear and lasting agreement with Abimelech. |
| Genesis 21:29 | Then Abimelech asked Abraham, "What is the meaning of these seven ewe lambs which you have set apart by themselves?" This verse emphasizes Abimelech's curiosity and his desire to understand the significance of the seven ewe lambs. |
| Genesis 21:30 | And he said, "You will take these seven ewe lambs from my hand, that they may be my witness that I have dug this well." This verse highlights Abraham's explanation of the seven ewe lambs and their significance as a witness to the treaty and the establishment of the well. |
| Genesis 21:31 | Therefore he called that place Beersheba, because the two of them took an oath there. This verse emphasizes the significance of the well and the establishment of the treaty, as well as the naming of the place as Beersheba. |
| Genesis 21:32 | Thus they made a covenant at Beersheba. So Abimelech and Phichol the commander of his army rose up and returned to the land of the Philistines. This verse highlights the conclusion of the treaty and the establishment of peace between Abraham and Abimelech. |
4. The Planting of a Tamarisk Tree (Genesis 21:33-34)
| Genesis 21:33 | Then Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called on the name of the Lord, the Everlasting God. This verse highlights Abraham's worship and his recognition of God's presence and blessing in his life. |
| Genesis 21:34 | And Abraham sojourned in the land of the Philistines many days. This verse emphasizes Abraham's establishment in the land and his commitment to faithfulness and obedience to God. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the birth of Isaac in Genesis 21?
The birth of Isaac is significant because it fulfills God's promise to Abraham and Sarah, and it highlights God's faithfulness to His promises. As seen in Genesis 21:1-7, the birth of Isaac is a miraculous event that demonstrates God's power and provision.
Why did Abraham expel Hagar and Ishmael from his household?
Abraham expelled Hagar and Ishmael from his household because of Sarah's concern for Isaac's inheritance and her desire to protect him from Hagar and Ishmael. As seen in Genesis 21:8-21, Abraham's decision to expel Hagar and Ishmael is a difficult one, but it is ultimately in line with God's command and promise to Abraham.
What is the significance of the well at Beersheba in Genesis 21?
The well at Beersheba is significant because it serves as a symbol of God's provision and care for Abraham and his household. As seen in Genesis 21:22-34, the well is also a reminder of the treaty between Abraham and Abimelech, and it highlights the importance of covenant in God's relationship with His people.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 21:1 → Galatians 4:28 | The birth of Isaac in Genesis 21:1 is a type of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham. As seen in Galatians 4:28, Isaac's birth is a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people. |
| 2 | Genesis 21:8 → John 1:14 | The weaning of Isaac in Genesis 21:8 is a reminder of the importance of spiritual growth and maturity, as seen in John 1:14. Just as Isaac was weaned and grew in stature, believers must also grow in their faith and trust in God's sovereignty. |
| 3 | Genesis 21:12 → Romans 9:7-8 | The command to Abraham to obey Sarah and to trust in God's promise to Isaac is a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience, as seen in Romans 9:7-8. As Abraham trusted in God's promise to Isaac, believers must also trust in God's sovereignty and provision. |
| 4 | Genesis 21:17 → Psalm 23:4 | The provision for Hagar and Ishmael in the wilderness is a reminder of God's care for His people, even in the midst of uncertainty and conflict. As seen in Genesis 21:17-19, God's provision for Hagar and Ishmael is a demonstration of His faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people. |
| 5 | Genesis 21:22 → 1 Peter 2:12 | The treaty between Abraham and Abimelech is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and kindness towards others, as seen in 1 Peter 2:12. As Abraham and Abimelech established a covenant and demonstrated faithfulness and kindness towards each other, believers must also seek to live in harmony with others and to demonstrate the love of Christ. |
| 6 | Genesis 21:25 → Proverbs 22:1 | The conflict between Abraham and Abimelech over the well is a reminder of the importance of integrity and honesty in our relationships with others, as seen in Proverbs 22:1. As Abraham and Abimelech sought to establish a clear and lasting agreement, believers must also seek to live with integrity and honesty in their relationships with others. |
| 7 | Genesis 21:30 → Hebrews 6:17-18 | The establishment of the well at Beersheba is a reminder of the importance of covenant and the significance of God's promises to His people, as seen in Hebrews 6:17-18. As the well served as a symbol of God's provision and care for Abraham and his household, believers must also trust in God's sovereignty and provision. |
| 8 | Genesis 21:33 → Psalm 100:4-5 | The planting of a tamarisk tree by Abraham is a reminder of the importance of worship and the recognition of God's presence and blessing in our lives, as seen in Psalm 100:4-5. As Abraham worshiped and recognized God's presence and blessing, believers must also seek to worship and trust in God's sovereignty. |
| 9 | Genesis 21:1 → Isaiah 40:28-31 | The birth of Isaac is a reminder of God's power and provision, as seen in Isaiah 40:28-31. As God provided for Abraham and Sarah, He also provides for His people today, giving them strength and hope in times of uncertainty and conflict. |
| 10 | Genesis 21:22 → Matthew 5:33-37 | The treaty between Abraham and Abimelech is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and kindness towards others, as seen in Matthew 5:33-37. As Abraham and Abimelech sought to establish a clear and lasting agreement, believers must also seek to live in harmony with others and to demonstrate the love of Christ. |
Sermons on Genesis 21
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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1 Kings 16-18 - Part 2 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Elijah and his encounter with King Ahab. He emphasizes the power of one person with God, using Elijah as an example. The preach |
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The Necessity of Secret Prayer by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of how God spoke to him about the amount of time he spent watching television. He felt convicted to give up watching TV a |
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If I Perish I Perish-01 Ministry From Esther by Major Ian Thomas | The sermon transcript discusses the concept of victorious living and spiritual experience. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the Bible as a whole and not detaching any |
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It Is Finished by B.H. Clendennen | In this sermon, the preacher begins by reading from Genesis chapter 21 and then transitions to Galatians chapter 4. He prays for the word of God to have an impact on the listeners. |
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Free Grace by C.H. Spurgeon | In this sermon, preached by Charles Haddon Spurgeon in 1859, he boldly proclaims a doctrine that goes against human merit and challenges the righteousness of moralists. He acknowle |
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(Genesis) Genesis 25:1-2 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Genesis chapter 25, which covers the death of Abraham and the generations of Ishmael and Isaac. The chapter also highlights the birth of Jaco |
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(Genesis) Genesis 21:11-34 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Abraham, Hagar, and Ishmael from the book of Genesis. He highlights how God promised Abraham that Ishmael would become a great |
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(Genesis) Genesis 21:1-11 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of believers having two natures - an old nature and a new nature. He explains that before conversion, the old nature controls a p |
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(Genesis) Genesis 25:19-26 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Rebecca and her struggle with barrenness. He highlights the struggle between light and darkness, good and evil, and the spirit |
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(Genesis) Genesis 17:19-27 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Abraham and God's promise to him. God assures Abraham that he will have a son, Isaac, and that through him, a great nation will |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Genesis 21
In Genesis 21, we see the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah, as well as the conflict between Isaac and Ishmael. Matthew Henry notes that the birth of Isaac is a remarkable example of God's power and goodness, and that it serves as a reminder of His faithfulness to His promises. Henry also emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience, as seen in Abraham's trust in God's promise to Isaac and his obedience to God's commands. Furthermore, Henry highlights the significance of covenant in God's relationship with His people, as seen in the establishment of the well at Beersheba and the treaty between Abraham and Abimelech. As Henry writes, 'The covenant is a bond of friendship and mutual obligation between God and His people, and it is a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
God's Faithfulness
Throughout the chapter, we see God's faithfulness to His promises, particularly in the birth of Isaac and the provision for Hagar and Ishmael. This demonstrates God's reliability and trustworthiness.
The Contrast between Isaac and Ishmael
The chapter highlights the contrast between Isaac, the son of promise, and Ishmael, the son of the flesh. This contrast foreshadows the spiritual contrast between the children of promise and the children of the flesh.
The Importance of Covenant
The chapter emphasizes the importance of God's covenant promises to Abraham, which are fulfilled in the birth of Isaac and the establishment of the well at Beersheba. This highlights the significance of covenant in God's relationship with His people.