Hagar and Exclusion

July 12, 2022

by Matthew W. Bassford This became apparent last week when we studied the use of the story of Lot by Jesus and Peter. Today, gospel preachers like to bag on Lot. They condemn him for “pitching his tent towards Sodom” and point to the corruption of his family with grim satisfaction. By contrast, the New…

Read More

Were Esau and Ishmael’s descendants considered Gentiles?

May 4, 2012

Question: We are studying Genesis 36 and the generations of Esau.  Several questions arose that have generated some good discussion, but we are needing some help. The questions asked “Were Esau and Ishmael’s families considered Gentiles? Or were they Jews?  We are a little confused about when the Jewish nation was established and when were…

Read More

What happened to Ishmael’s descendants?

March 17, 2005

Question: What happened to Ishmael’s descendants? Answer: God promised Abraham, “And as for Ishmael, I have heard you. Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly. He shall beget twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation” (Genesis 17:20). Ishmael’s initial descendants are recorded for us…

Read More