Genesis 20:8-18 – Poor Excuses
Abimelech has been warned, and as one truly afraid of sin and its consequences, quickly moves to obey. When we see how terrible sin is, we want to be obedient. Abimelech warns his household, as we should warn others, that they are in danger from their disobedience to God.
Abimelech rebukes Abraham. He calls adultery a great sin or guilt, realises that he could have unknowingly brought God’s anger down on him, and tells Abraham that he should not have done what he did. He wants to know what he ever did to Abraham that would make Abraham expose him to such a great sin, or what danger Abraham thought he was in that he would do such a thing.
Abraham makes some pretty poor excuses. He has assumed, without good reason, that Abimelech does not fear God, but then instead of trying to set a good example, he has tried to blend in. He says Sarah is his half-sister, ignoring the fact that he still has deceived others by not saying that she is his wife. Finally, he falls back on the excuse of tradition, that they have always done things this way.
Abimelech shows great kindness to Abraham proving Abraham’s fears to be groundless. Abraham can live wherever he wants, and he is given many royal gifts. Finally, Sarah is told to return to her ‘brother’, who should be her protection.
Questions
- What excuses does Abraham make to Abimelech?
- How does Abimelech treat Abraham?
Prayer Points
- Pray that we would be honest in all we do.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters