Genesis 20-21

Genesis 20:1
Where was Abraham moving on from?
---The Trees of Mamre
What was Abraham leaving behind?
---He had built an altar there
---He had friends there
---He had experienced God there
**I believe Abraham's time at the Trees of Mamre was a happy & stable time in his life.
Why do you think Abraham left?
---It was probably something as practical as a lack of resources
Why is moving so difficult for humans?
---We resist change, especially when we are in a comfort zone

Genesis 20:2-18
Had Abraham acted this way before?
---Yes, he acted in an almost identical manner at the end of chapter 12
Do you ever struggle with the same sins repeatedly?
---Any sin can become a stronghold in our lives
Why wasn’t Abimelech’s action considered a sin?
---No, because he had a clear conscience
How did God keep Abimelech from sinning?
---By giving him a dream
At what point did Abimelech become responsible for his actions?
---When he was aware of the situation. At that point he had a choice to make
As far as we can tell, what kind of people lived in Gerar?
---God fearing people
What did Abraham assume about the people of Gerar?
---That they were NOT God-fearing people
How did Abraham justify his action?
---It was a half truth
Why did Abimelech need Abraham to pray for him?
---God ordained blessing to come through Abraham

Genesis 21:1-7
How long had Abraham & Sarah been waiting for a son?
---There whole married lives. Andd now they were 90+
How did Abraham & Sarah have a son at such an old age?
---It was a miracle of God
At what time was the son born to them?
---At the perfect time (just like Galatians 4:4)
Did they obey God’s commandment concerning circumcision?
---Yes
Why did they name their son Isaac?
---He brought laughter back to the household. It was also ironic in light of their ealier laughter

Genesis 21:8-21
What emotions was Sarah experiencing at the feast?
---First celebration, then jealousy/anger
What emotions was Abraham experiencing at the feast?
---First celebration, then sadness/worry
What was God’s position on the matter?
---He'd take care of Ishmael AND Isaac
What were Hagar’s emotions after the feast?
---Worthlessness/fear
What became of Ishmael?
---He was blessed by God

Genesis 21:22-34
What made Abimelech & Phicol see God’s blessing on Abraham?
---His prosperity
Do you think this was a good alliance?
---Yes
What is the significance of the name Beersheba?
---Like the tree of Mamre had been, it became a resting place for Abram