The History of Abraham's Family
God used the life of Abraham to teach God’s people how to enter the kingdom of heaven. Let’s examine:
“The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, ...’”
Jesus emphasized that no one should be called Father except God (Mt 23:9). However, in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Lk 16:12–30), Abraham is used to represent God the Father. Through this, we can see that Abraham’s children are considered God’s children.
“If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
Apostle Paul explained that those who belong to Christ are considered Abraham’s offspring and will inherit eternal life. Therefore, by studying the history of Abraham’s family, we can realize the decisive factor that determined the heir of his estate, in other words, who will inherit the kingdom of heaven.
“And Abram said, ‘You have given me no children’ ... then the word of the Lord came to him: ‘... a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.’”
“God said, “… Listen to whatever Sarah tells you, because it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.”
Genesis 21:12
Despite the patriarchal nature of Abraham’s time, God asked Abraham to listen to Sarah because she would bear the child of promise. This is an important indicator to God’s people who will inherit the kingdom of heaven. If Abraham represents Father, and Isaac represents God’s heirs, who then is Sarah?
“But the other woman, Sarah, represents the heavenly Jerusalem. She is the free woman, and she is our mother.”
