Genesis 21:9-13 – Mocking Laughter
Abraham throws a big party for Isaac when he is weaned. Isaac is probably between 3 and 5. At this great feast, Sarah sees Ishmael, the son of Hagar, mocking her son, Isaac. Ishmael is 14 years older than Isaac, and as his older brother should be treating Isaac kindly. But maybe because of pride or jealousy, Ishmael decides to laugh at Isaac. This is a dangerous thing to do considering the precarious position he and his mother have in Abraham’s household. This is a picture of the mocking and persecution Christians can expect to face from unbelievers. But those who persecute God’s people are also in a very precarious position in God’s world.
Sarah is furious and demands that Abraham send Hagar and Ishmael away. (She seems to easily forget that this whole mess was originally her idea.) Abraham is reluctant to send Ishmael away because Ishmael is his son. He is upset at Ishmael mocking Isaac and at Sarah insisting on such a punishment. God comes to Abraham and tells him what to do. Ishmael must be cast out, so Isaac can be established in the covenant. Isaac is to be set apart to God; from Isaac the promised Saviour will come. But God promises to take care of Ishmael and make him a great nation.
Questions
- What does Ishmael do to Isaac?
- What does Sarah want Abraham to do?
- Which son will God make His covenant with?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters