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Spring 2000 Bible Studies Spring 2000 Bible StudiesSpring 2000 Bible Studies

The God Who Sees (Genesis 16:1-16)

1. What was the longest time you ever had to wait for something you wanted? Explain.

Read Genesis 16:1-16Read Genesis 16:1-16Read Genesis 16:1-16

2. Why do you suppose Sarai suggests the course of action described in v.2? Why you think Abraham agreed?

She is barren, and they’re both getting up there in years

It has been 10 years since God promised an heir.

It was a socially accepted solution to the problem of barrenness.

3. Although this action was lawful and acceptable in ancient Near Eastern culture, in what ways does it indicate a lack of faith?

“There were ways in which a childless couple could acceptably meet their need of a child. One was by adoption, and Abram had evidently adopted Eliezer (15:2). Another, mentioned in the Laws of Hammurapi, was for the wife to present one of her slave-girls to her husband to bear a son for the marriage. It was understood that in this case the wife, and not the mother, had jurisdiction over the child, whose right of inheritance was uncertain until he was legally adopted. When Sarai suggested that Hagar might become the substitute mother of her child she was, therefore, following a socially acceptable precedent¼” (Baldwin, p.58)

There’s no indication that they sought the Lord in this matter.

This “solution” goes against God’s way (godly ends must be met by godly means)

(o) What are some modern cultural norms that are counter to biblical culture?

In what ways can impatience with God’s timetable and with His way of working lead us to unbelief and even disobedience?

(o) Why is it so hard to wait?

(o) Have you ever tried to do God’s work for Him?

4. Why does Hagar flee her circumstance? (v6)

(v4) Strained relationship between Sarai and Hagar.

Why? - she didn’t foresee the emotional upheaval of her suggestion

- rivalry between Sarai and Hagar for Abram’s devotion

- jealousy

(o) What strained circumstances are you currently tempted to respond to by running?

5. Why does Hagar return to her circumstance? (v15)

Hagar has an encounter with God.

Hagar’s knowledge of God is not academic, it’s experiential!

God’s comforts Hagar with His promises.

There’s a sense that Hagar is moved by God’s understanding.

- Beer Lahai Roi – “Well of the Living One who sees me”

- Ishmael – “The God who hears”

6. Where have you seen God lately?