February 18, 2024 - Genesis 17:1-10, 15-19
February 18, 2024
Genesis 17:1-10, 15-19
Lessons Learned
by Wayne Gaeddert
1. Ishmael means ‘God hears.’
2. The New Testament interprets Hagar as representing the law and Sarah represents grace. See Galatians 4:21-31.
3. Abram means ‘exalted father.’
4. Abraham means ‘father of a multitude.’
5. Abraham was justified before circumcision. Circumcision was a seal or sign of his righteousness. Romans 4:11
6. Believers today are sealed by the Holy Spirit at the time of their conversion.
“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” Ephesians 4:30 NASB
7. Sarai and Sarah both mean ‘princess.’
8. Chapter 15 Covenant with Abram: The Word of the LORD came to Abram
Fear not, I am your shield.
Your reward shall be very great
Your son will be your heir.
Your descendants will be as the stars.
9. Chapter 17 is 13-14 years after Chapter 15. (99-86+ conception & pregnancy of Hagar.)
10. God Almighty (from the Hebrew El Shaddai) ‘El’ is the Semitic word for God, ‘Shaddai’ emphasizes God’s power.
11. Covenant is an agreement between two people.
12. Isaac means ‘he laughs.’
13. Application:
Rites and rituals will not produce salvation. Salvation is a work of God in the heart of a person who has put their faith in Christ alone.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 NASB
All things are possible with God. No matter how unbelievable God’s promise may sound to you, with God it is possible.
“For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1.37 NASB
(Spoken to the virgin Mary about having a son.)
It is best to forget the past so you can focus on what God has for the present and future. See Philippians 3:13-14.