Why is the contrast between Ishmael and Isaac important for understanding the whole Bible?
The contrast matters because Ishmael represents what comes by human effort and the flesh, while Isaac is the son of promise. Scripture repeatedly distinguishes the flesh from God's promise, showing that God's sure Word, not human impatience or self-effort, brings the promised son.
Les explains that Abraham and Sarai had no son, became impatient, and Sarah suggested Abraham have a child by their slave girl Hagar. Abraham agreed, and Ishmael was born. But Ishmael was not the son of promise; Israel was after the energy of the flesh. Les says never lose sight of that, because it carries all the way through Scripture: Ishmael is after the flesh, while Isaac is the son of promise. God kept promising, and though many years passed, God's Word was sure: in due time, you would have a son. Not every child of Abraham was the promised son.
More Questions
What is the difference between Ishmael and Isaac?
Ishmael is after the flesh, while Isaac is the son of promise, a contrast that carries all the way through Scripture.
What do Ishmael and Isaac represent in Scripture?
Ishmael represents the flesh, while Isaac represents the promise, and this distinction carries all the way through Scripture.