Genesis 20:13

So when God had me journey from my father's house, I said to Sarah, 'This is how you can show your loyalty to me: Wherever we go, say of me, "He is my brother."'"

Study Bible

So when God had me journey from my father’s house
This phrase refers to God's call to Abraham to leave his homeland, as initially recorded in Genesis 12:1. This divine directive marks the beginning of Abraham's journey of faith and obedience. The departure from his father's house signifies a break from his past and a step into the unknown, relying solely on God's promises. This act of faith is later highlighted in Hebrews 11:8, where Abraham's obedience is commended. The journey from his father's house also symbolizes a spiritual journey, leaving behind old ways and stepping into a covenant relationship with God.

I said to Sarah, ‘This is how you can show your loyalty to me:
Abraham's request to Sarah reflects the cultural norms and practices of the ancient Near East, where familial ties and loyalty were paramount. In this context, loyalty involves protecting one's family and ensuring their safety. Abraham's concern for his safety in foreign lands led him to devise a plan that he believed would protect them both. This request also underscores the patriarchal structure of the time, where wives were expected to support and follow their husbands' directives.

Wherever we go, say of me, “He is my brother.”’”
This strategy was employed by Abraham to protect himself from potential harm in foreign territories, as seen in Genesis 12:10-20 and later in Genesis 26:7-11 with Isaac. The claim that Sarah was his sister was a half-truth, as she was his half-sister (Genesis 20:12). This tactic reflects the precarious nature of travel in ancient times, where strangers could be viewed with suspicion or hostility. The repetition of this strategy in different contexts highlights human tendencies to rely on self-devised plans rather than fully trusting in God's protection. It also foreshadows the ultimate need for divine intervention and grace, as seen in the resolution of these situations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch who is speaking in this verse. He is recounting his journey and the agreement he made with his wife, Sarah, to protect themselves.

2. Sarah
Abraham's wife, who is asked to say that Abraham is her brother to protect him from potential harm due to her beauty.

3. God
The divine being who called Abraham to leave his father's house and wander, leading to the events described.

4. Gerar
The region where Abraham and Sarah are staying when this event takes place. It is ruled by King Abimelech.

5. Abimelech
The king of Gerar who takes Sarah into his household, believing her to be Abraham's sister.

Teaching Points

Faith and Fear
Abraham's actions reveal a tension between faith in God's promises and fear of human threats. Believers today can learn from this tension, recognizing the importance of trusting God even when circumstances seem threatening.

Integrity and Deception
The decision to deceive others about their relationship raises questions about integrity. Christians are called to live truthfully, trusting God to protect and provide.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Abraham's fear-driven actions, God's sovereignty is evident as He intervenes to protect Sarah and fulfill His promises. This reassures believers of God's control over their lives.

Marital Unity
The agreement between Abraham and Sarah highlights the importance of unity and mutual support in marriage, even in difficult situations.

Lessons from Repetition
The repetition of similar events in Abraham's life suggests that God uses recurring challenges to teach and refine His people. Believers can reflect on patterns in their own lives to discern God's lessons.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's request to Sarah reflect both his faith and his fear? How can we apply this understanding to our own struggles with faith and fear?

2. In what ways does the account of Abraham and Sarah in Gerar challenge us to consider the role of integrity in our lives? How can we ensure that our actions align with our faith?

3. How does God's intervention in this account demonstrate His sovereignty and faithfulness? Can you think of a time when you experienced God's protection in unexpected ways?

4. What can we learn from the unity between Abraham and Sarah in this situation? How can married couples today support each other in faith and decision-making?

5. Reflect on a recurring challenge in your life. How might God be using this pattern to teach you or grow your faith? What steps can you take to respond faithfully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:10-20
This earlier event in Egypt parallels the situation in Gerar, where Abraham also asked Sarah to say she was his sister. It highlights a recurring theme of fear and self-preservation in Abraham's journey.

Hebrews 11:8-9
These verses speak of Abraham's faith and obedience in leaving his homeland, providing a broader context for his life of wandering and reliance on God's promises.

1 Peter 3:6
This verse references Sarah's obedience to Abraham, offering a New Testament perspective on her actions and the dynamics of their relationship.