Bible Text: Genesis 21:10, 22-34 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: Choices, Genesis

1.  Paul uses the historical incident of Genesis 21 (Ishmael’s persecution of Isaac) in Galatians 4:21-31 to illustrate through Sarah and Hagar, Isaac and Ishmael, the need to live in faith and grace and freedom.  Believers are to live as children of Sarah, not in bondage to law as children of Hagar.

2.  Abimelech, the pagan king, knew two things about Abraham, the child of God: one, that he was blessed by God in all he did; and two, that he was a liar.  This dichotomy necessitated a treaty between the two to regulate their relationship.

3.  Too often believers are inconsistent with the talk and their walk.  When that happens they harm their testimony.  The scripture is clear that believers need to speak the truth and to be consistent in their walk.

4.  We, as believers, are to:  1) always remember that we are first and foremost witnesses for Jesus Christ (Col. 4:5); 2) live responsibly, taking care of ourselves, having a settled center to our lives; 3) have a good reputation with unbelievers, especially church leaders (1 Tim. 3:7); 4) treat non-Christians with respect and humility (Titus 3:1-5); and 5) live in peace and harmony with all people (believers and unbelievers alike) as much as is possible (Rom. 12:18)