1. Genesis 16:1–16 (ESV)
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Introduction to Genesis 16:1–16

Genesis 16:1–16 (ESV)

1 Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. She had a female Egyptian servant whose name was Hagar.

Christians, Jews, and Muslims all share the same forefather:

  • The Jews are the descendants of Abraham, who was called by God.

  • The Christians are also the descendants of Abraham, especially those Jews who became Christian. And we should never forget that the Christian church started in Jerusalem. Christ was born in Bethlehem, the apostles were Israelites and the members of the first Christian churches were in majority Jews who lived in Judah and in the dispersion.
    Abraham is called the father of all who believe (Romans 4:11–12).

  • The Muslims, and especially the Arabs, believe that they are descendants of Abram through Hagar and Ishmael.

  • This means that Christians, Jews, and Arabs (Muslims) are descendants of the same forefather.

The history of Abram, Sarai, Hagar, and the angel of the Lord is not just a story like other stories, it is a story about the roots of world history and of three major religions! This story is still relevant today.