Fremont Community Church

Ishmael - the DIY promise

Dec 14, 2025    Pastor Josh Hawkins

What happens when we get tired of waiting on God? In this sermon, we explore Genesis 16 and the story of Abram, Sarai, and Hagar. After 10 years of silence and waiting for a promised child, Abram and Sarai decide to take matters into their own hands, leading to what we call "The DIY Promise of Ishmael."

We dive deep into the theology of partnership with God, tracing the theme from Adam and Eve to Abraham. Why was Abram’s choice to have a child with Hagar considered wrong? It wasn't just a lack of faith—it was a step away from partnership. Join us as we discover why the "promise without the presence is worthless" and how Jesus, the new and better Abram, restores our partnership with the Father.

This message is part of our Advent series, looking at how the waiting periods in Scripture point us toward the true joy of Christmas.