Genesis 25:1-18 We come finally to the end of the story of Abraham. What is this about another wife? What lessons are there for us in the other sons of Abraham? Why does God give Ishmael his own toledot in the book of Genesis? At the end of Abraham's life we learn he was fully satisfied with life. How did this happen? How does this compare to the end of his grandson Jacob's life? Though satisfied with life, Abraham ends his life still longing for something else. What was that? Why does Hebrews say that God was not ashamed to be called Abraham's God? (56 min)

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Ishamael, Hagar

Genesis 21:8-21 In the middle of a celebratory feast, conflict arises as Isaac's older half-brother, Ishmael, makes sport his young sibling. What was Sarah's motivation for her seemingly harsh demand of Abraham? Why does God tell Abraham to listen to his wife? Why does he tell Abraham not to be distressed? Why is it so important to God that Ishmael have no part in the inheritance, and what is the relevance of that to us today? Why does Scripture call Isaac Abraham's "only begotten son?" What can we learn from Hagar's wandering in the wilderness of Beersheba?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Ishmael, Hagar

Genesis 16:13-16 Hagar, who has grown up worshiping the gods of Egypt, encounters the Living God of Abram. How will she respond when she discovers that God has always had His eye on her? (Apologies for inferior audio quality.)

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishamael

Genesis 16:7-12 Things are spinning out of control for everyone involved. Now Hagar, in an act of utter desperation, flees from Sarai. But she soon discovers that while she could hide from her mistress, yet God’s eyes are ever upon her. This turns out to be wonderful news for Hagar, as she discovers that He has been paying attention to all her suffering.

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishamael

Genesis 16:4-7 In using a culturally accepted solution to his problem, Abram fails to exhibit that difference that makes others notice the greatness of his God. What happens when we try to take control of our lives from God?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishamael

Genesis 16:1-3 Discouraged that she is apparently excluded from God’s promise to Abram, Sarai offers her husband a solution to their problem. Both of them fail to see that, though “everybody’s doing it,” it is a deceptive option fraught with complications.

Keywords Abraham, Hagar, Sarah