Paul uses the story of Abraham's two sons to convey a powerful message about faith and freedom. The son born to the slave woman, Hagar, represents human attempts to fulfill God's promises through earthly means. This birth was according to the flesh, symbolizing human effort and the limitations of the law. In contrast, the son born to the free woman, Sarah, was the result of God's promise, highlighting the miraculous and divine nature of God's intervention in human affairs.
This allegory serves to remind believers that true freedom and fulfillment come not from adhering strictly to the law or relying on human capabilities, but from trusting in God's promises and grace. It underscores the transformative power of faith, which liberates individuals from the constraints of the law and human limitations, inviting them into a life of spiritual freedom and divine promise. This message resonates across Christian traditions, encouraging believers to live by faith and embrace the freedom offered through Christ.