Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise. But, as he who was born according to the flesh then persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, even so it is now. Nevertheless what does the Scripture say? “Cast out the bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.” So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman but of the free. – Galatians 4:28-31
As Christians, we don’t identify with Ishmael. We identify with Isaac, as children of a promise that was received by faith. Ishmael and his descendants persecuted Isaac and his descendants. So we should not be surprised that the modern day people who follow God in the flesh persecute those who follow God in faith through the promise. The fifth contrast Paul draws between Christianity and legalism is the contrast between persecuted and persecuting. The legalists – represented by Ishmael – have always persecuted true Christianity, represented by Isaac. As we walk in the glory, in the freedom, in the miraculous power of this New Covenant, we should expect to be mistreated by those who don’t.
There is no specific mention of Ishmael persecuting Isaac, though Genesis 21:9 says that Ishmael did mock Isaac. Paul may be referring to this mocking, he may be recalling a Jewish tradition, or he may be adding something by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that we didn’t know before. The persecution Christians face “will not always be by the world but also and indeed more often by their half-brothers – the unbelieving but religious people in the nominal church. This is the lesson of history… Today the greatest enemies of the believing church are found among the members of the unbelieving church, the greatest opposition emanating from pulpits and church hierarchies (cite:James Boice).”
This quote by James Boice is powerful especially in the middle of a DIVISIVE election. Even sometimes families fight. Countries, like families, have disagreements. Notice the difference though between politics and religion. Right now the battle is between republican and democrat. This battle is NOT FOR A PROMISE FROM GOD. This battles is fought for political power.
I find solace in this truth. Peace overcomes my soul when I realize that we are not fighting for our future. Our future has ALREADY BEEN DECIDED ON THE CROSS! Temporary life on earth may be more difficult post election depending on who you are or what your beliefs are, but if you are a believing Christian, your promise was not impacted.
My prayer is that our nation and especially local community comes to a place of peace in the same manner. We can have peace because our eternal future is secure. This life is temporary. This life is filled with many blessings such as family and friends, but not even that was promised to us. In fact, Jesus says on multiple occasions that following him will probably mean we lose friends and family. Our promise rather was eternal, meaning we never have to worry again. Our promise is found in Christ. So turn to Christ this weekend. Make some popcorn and enjoy the show. You are already safe.
Amen