Old Generations and a New One

Those who have faith in God must move forward towards God’s promises.

God’s people trust God’s promises even when they experience loss

“By leaving their bones in Canaan the patriarchs gave their last witness to the promise...death formed no obstacle to their entering on the possession of it”

The flattery that was given to Abraham by Ephron was so that he could remain the owner of the land and keep the asset. But Abraham was seeking to possess the land God had given him.

God’s people go to the Lord for divine guidance

The family news that Abraham received in 22:20-24 is probably what led him to send his servant to this family to find a wife for Isaac.

“The story...gives living form to the charge ‘In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths”

holding onto the servants thigh made it solemn and personal

Abraham wants a woman inside the family because it was those who trusted God’s promise.

The servant calls God the “Lord of my master” to stress God’s covenant with Abraham.

When the servant finds Rebekah his first thought is for the Lord, the 2nd for Abraham who God blessed, and finally delighted that God led him straight to this house.

The call of God and his faithfulness to His promises is evident here.

The servant prays three times to God.

God’s people actively respond to God’s guidance

God’s people disciple others in God’s promises

Abraham probably had Keturah as a concubine before Sarah passed.

Abraham’s actions showed a clear belief that Isaac would be the one God would bless him through.

God blessed Isaac in the same way he blessed Abraham.

Even Ishmael would receive blessings because of being Abraham’s son.

Abraham had set up Isaac in the promised land but separately so that he could establish his own household as God says in Genesis 2