What does the Bible say about the two covenants in Galatians?

In Galatians 4, the Apostle Paul highlights the distinction between two covenants using the allegorical story of Abraham’s two sons, Ishmael and Isaac. The first covenant, linked to Ishmael, is one of works and bondage, represented by Hagar, the bondwoman. Conversely, Isaac symbolizes the covenant of grace or promise, born to Sarah, the free woman. These covenants operate on entirely different principles—one based on human effort and the other on divine promise. Paul makes it clear that believers are children of promise, liberated from the law, which can never save but only brings knowledge of sin.