Genesis 24:28

The girl ran and told her mother's household about these things.

Study Bible

The girl ran
This phrase highlights the urgency and excitement of Rebekah's actions. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, running was not a common activity for women, indicating the importance of the message she carried. Her eagerness reflects the significance of the encounter with Abraham's servant, who was seeking a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son. This moment is pivotal in the unfolding of God's covenant promises to Abraham, as it sets the stage for the continuation of his lineage.

and told her mother’s household
Rebekah's decision to inform her mother's household is significant. In patriarchal societies, the father's household typically held authority, but the mention of the mother's household suggests a matrilineal influence or simply the domestic sphere where women communicated. This detail may also indicate the close-knit nature of family units and the role of women in managing household affairs. It reflects the cultural norms of the time, where women often gathered and shared news within their domestic circles.

about these things
The phrase "these things" refers to the events that had just transpired at the well, including the servant's prayer, Rebekah's fulfillment of the sign he requested from God, and the gifts she received. This moment is a fulfillment of divine providence, as God orchestrates the meeting to ensure the continuation of Abraham's lineage through Isaac. The narrative connects to other scriptural themes of God's faithfulness and guidance, as seen in stories like those of Joseph and Moses. It also foreshadows the role of women in God's plan, as Rebekah becomes a matriarch in the lineage leading to Jesus Christ, fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman from the household of Bethuel, who is the daughter of Bethuel and the granddaughter of Nahor, Abraham's brother. She is the central figure in this verse as she runs to inform her family about her encounter with Abraham's servant.

2. Abraham's Servant
Though not named in this verse, he is the servant sent by Abraham to find a wife for Isaac. His encounter with Rebekah at the well is a pivotal moment in the account.

3. Rebekah's Mother's Household
The family of Rebekah, which includes her mother and other household members. This is the place where Rebekah runs to share the news of her encounter.

4. The Well
The location where Rebekah meets Abraham's servant. It is a significant setting in the account, symbolizing provision and divine appointment.

5. Bethuel
Rebekah's father, who is part of the household she informs. His lineage connects Rebekah to Abraham's family, fulfilling the servant's mission.

Teaching Points

Faithful Obedience
Rebekah's immediate response to share the news with her family demonstrates a heart of obedience and transparency. Believers are encouraged to be prompt in sharing God's work in their lives.

Divine Appointments
The meeting at the well was not by chance but orchestrated by God. We should be attentive to divine appointments in our own lives, recognizing God's hand in our daily interactions.

Family and Community
Rebekah's action of informing her household underscores the importance of family and community in God's plans. We are reminded to involve and inform our families in spiritual matters.

God's Faithfulness
The unfolding events in this chapter highlight God's faithfulness to His promises. Trusting in God's timing and provision is crucial for believers.

Role of Women in Scripture
Rebekah's proactive role in this account challenges us to recognize and value the significant contributions of women in God's redemptive history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's immediate action to inform her family reflect her character, and what can we learn from her example about sharing God's work in our lives?

2. In what ways can we identify and respond to divine appointments in our own lives, similar to the encounter at the well?

3. How does the involvement of Rebekah's family in this account emphasize the importance of community in our spiritual journeys?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in fulfilling a promise. How does this encourage you to trust Him more?

5. Considering Rebekah's role in this account, how can we better appreciate and support the contributions of women in our faith communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:12-27
This passage provides the context for Rebekah's actions, detailing the servant's prayer and God's providential guidance in leading him to Rebekah.

Proverbs 31:10-31
This passage describes the qualities of a virtuous woman, which can be seen in Rebekah's character and actions.

Hebrews 11:8-9
These verses highlight the faith of Abraham, which is mirrored in the faithfulness of his servant and the unfolding of God's promises through Rebekah.