Genesis 21: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Genesis 21 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Genesis chapter 21 tells the story of the long-awaited birth of Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. At the age of 90, Sarah miraculously gives birth, fulfilling God's promise that Abraham would have a son through her. The chapter emphasizes the joy and laughter surrounding Isaac's birth, reflecting both the miraculous nature of God's promises and the joy that follows faithfulness. It also illustrates how God keeps His promises in His perfect timing, highlighting the theme of hope and faith amidst human doubt.

Key verse

“Yahweh visited Sarah as he had said, and Yahweh did to Sarah as he had spoken.”
Genesis 21:1 (WEB)

Outline

Genesis 21:1–7 The Birth of Isaac
Genesis 21:8–14 Conflict with Hagar and Ishmael
Genesis 21:15–21 Hagar and Ishmael in the Wilderness
Genesis 21:22–34 Abraham's Covenant with Abimelech

Discussion questions

In v2, what does the phrase 'set time' indicate about God's promise?
What does Sarah mean by 'Everyone who hears will laugh with me' in v6?
God's command to Abraham in v12: why must he listen to Sarah about Hagar?
The emotional conflict in v11 shows what about Abraham's feelings for Ishmael?
When has a difficult family decision made you feel torn like Abraham did in v11?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 21: Genesis 17, Galatians 4, Genesis 26.

Before next time: read Genesis 22.