A WIFE FOR ISAAC_

Genesis 24: 1-67:
The commentaries say that this is the longest chapter in the book of Genesis. Be that as it may we will try not to make this lesson too long. Some where near 3 years have passed since the death of Sarah. Isaac is 40 years old and Abraham is 140 years old. Abraham has probably given some thought to his own death, and making plans for the future. In doing so he calls his chief servant (Eliezer_ 15:2) gives him some instructions and sends him to Haran to find a wife for Isaac.

Part 0ne


I. Read Gen.24: 1-9
1. The Oath_ Commentaries indicate this oath as binding_for two reasons: The custom of accepting a persons sworn word (24: 49-51; Joshua 9:3-21[14-21]) even if giving under, shall we say “Unusual circumstances”. [Note that the people of Israel were not happy with their leaders.] And secondly it was made to Abraham by the Lord_ by Jehovah (the God of heaven and earth, the covenant God). This oath seems to me to be very personal, “put your hand under my thigh”. (cf 47:29-31) But also includes a connection to the promise's which God had made to these Patriarchs.

2. Abraham had two stipulations, first no Canaanites. If we look back over the scriptures we have covered so far we understand that they were under a curse. (9:25, 15:13-21) It was not just that they were to be servants, but there were to be thrown off the land. Going back even farther we see that mankind has been depicted as those who look to God and those who turn away from Him. Secondly and yet connected to the first that she must be from his country and his kindred.

3. Application to us: We should always speak the truth, and keep our word and enter an oath under few and necessary circumstances. Jesus words in [Matt.23:16-22; Heb.6:13,16-18; James 5:11] speaks against taking an oath lightly, because God is the highest authority, all oaths eventually end with Him.

4. Our custom unlike Those of Abraham's time is not to pick mates for our sons or daughters. How do we then apply these verses to ourselves, our sons and our daughters? First we need to exemplify a good husband or a good wife ourselves. Second we need to train up our sons and our daughters to be good husbands or wives. Thirdly and most importantly is Pray for God's guidance and blessings.