Lecture on the Beginnings of Jewish and Arabian Cultures

Key Figures and Genealogies

Hagar: Sarah's maid/slave who had a child with Abraham (Ishmael).
- Ishmael's descendants formed the 12 tribes of the Arab nations.
- The Muslim religion traces its origins to Ishmael.
Sarah: Abraham's wife who had a child (Isaac) in her old age through God's grace.
- Isaac's descendants formed the 12 tribes of Israel.
- The Jewish nation and the promise of the Messiah came through Isaac.

Ishmael and Isaac: Conflict between Ishmael and Isaac's descendants persists into modern times.
- The Middle East conflict is portrayed as a religious war about the correct leader between Shia and Sunni Muslims.
Types and Previews: Hagar and Sarah symbolize
- Those who seek justification by the law (Hagar) remain slaves.
- Those justified by faith (Sarah) are free and recipients of the promise.

Islam: A religion based on law and surrender to Allah.
- Emphasis on doing specific actions (prayer, fasting, alms, pilgrimage) for a hope of paradise.
- Martyrdom in Jihad is considered a guaranteed way to paradise.
Christianity: Based on faith and God's promises.
- God’s promises are fulfilled and based on His word.
- Faith in Jesus brings freedom from sin and blessings of the promise.

Genesis Chapter 22: God commands Abraham to sacrifice Isaac.
- Types: This scene foreshadows the sacrificial system and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
- Abraham shows unwavering faith, believing God would resurrect Isaac.
Faith vs. Works: Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac demonstrates ultimate faith.
- True faith naturally produces works that justify the faith.
- Abraham's actions show the extent of work a person could do with great faith.

Expect Testing: A faith relationship with God involves continuous testing to grow faith.
- Testing aims to make faith grow, leading to clearer vision of God, resulting in hope and joy.
Expect Quality: Salvation changes us, leading to better service to the Lord and resisting sin.
- Growth in faith leads to quality works.
God Will Provide: Trust that God provides at every