Reading: Genesis 20

Abraham moves south to Gerar. But this brings the family, and the future of the church, in danger.

 

Abraham and Sarah have an agreement to pretend she is his sister if a man, stronger the Abraham, takes her. On that understanding Abimelech, king of Gerar, takes Sarah into his house. But God is very merciful and forces Abimelech to return Sarah to Abraham, saving both households from disaster. Abimelech criticises Abraham for not telling him Sarah was his wife and bringing trouble into Abimelech’s family.

 

In this chapter the Holy Spirit presents to us a remarkable example of the infirmity of man and grace and faithfulness of God. Despite man’s weakness and sin, God remains faithful to His covenant promises.

 

Key text: In Genesis 20:7 God says to Abimelech in a dream “Now therefore, restore the man’s wife; for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you shall live.”

 

Question: What do you think about Abraham’s arrangement with Sarah to pretend they are brother and sister?