Genesis 24:33

Then a meal was set before the man, but he said, "I will not eat until I have told you what I came to say." So Laban said, "Please speak."

Study Bible

Then a meal was set before the man
In ancient Near Eastern culture, hospitality was a significant social custom, often involving the sharing of a meal. This act of setting a meal before a guest was a gesture of welcome and respect. The man referred to here is Abraham's servant, likely Eliezer, who was sent to find a wife for Isaac. The preparation of a meal indicates the host's willingness to engage in a relationship and dialogue, reflecting the cultural importance of hospitality as seen in other biblical accounts, such as Abraham's own hospitality to the three visitors in Genesis 18.

but he said, “I will not eat until I have told you what I came to say.”
The servant's refusal to eat before speaking demonstrates his commitment to his mission and his sense of urgency. This reflects a prioritization of duty over personal comfort, a theme echoed in the New Testament where Jesus emphasizes the importance of spiritual duties over physical needs (John 4:34). The servant's focus on his task also highlights the seriousness of his mission, which is to secure a wife for Isaac, ensuring the continuation of God's covenant with Abraham.

So Laban said, “Please speak.”
Laban's response indicates his willingness to listen and engage with the servant's message. This openness is crucial for the unfolding of God's plan, as Laban's agreement would lead to Rebekah becoming Isaac's wife. Laban's character is complex, as seen in later chapters, but here he is portrayed as hospitable and accommodating. This interaction sets the stage for the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, as Rebekah's marriage to Isaac is a key event in the lineage leading to the birth of Jesus Christ, fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham's Servant
The unnamed servant, traditionally believed to be Eliezer, is on a mission to find a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son. His dedication to his task is evident in his refusal to eat before completing his mission.

2. Laban
Rebekah's brother, who plays a significant role in the hospitality and negotiations regarding Rebekah's marriage to Isaac. His response, "Please speak," shows his willingness to listen and engage in the conversation.

3. Rebekah
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, she is central to the account as the prospective bride for Isaac. Her family, including Laban, is involved in the decision-making process.

4. Haran
The place where Abraham's servant finds Rebekah. It is significant as the location where Abraham's relatives reside, fulfilling Abraham's desire for a wife for Isaac from his own kin.

5. The Meal
Represents the cultural practice of hospitality and the importance of sharing a meal in establishing relationships and agreements. The servant's refusal to eat highlights his commitment to his mission.

Teaching Points

Prioritizing God's Mission
The servant's refusal to eat before completing his task teaches us the importance of prioritizing God's work over personal comfort or social customs.

The Role of Hospitality
Laban's hospitality reflects the biblical value of welcoming and listening to others, which can open doors for God's purposes to be fulfilled.

Commitment to Duty
The servant's dedication is a model for believers to remain focused and committed to the tasks God has entrusted to them, even when distractions arise.

Divine Guidance and Providence
The account encourages believers to seek God's guidance in their endeavors, trusting that He will lead them to the right path.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's prioritization of his mission over the meal challenge our own priorities in serving God today?

2. In what ways can we practice hospitality like Laban, and how might this open opportunities for God's work in our lives?

3. Reflect on a time when you had to choose between personal comfort and fulfilling a responsibility. How did you handle it, and what can you learn from the servant's example?

4. How does the servant's reliance on prayer and God's guidance in Genesis 24:12-14 inspire you to seek divine direction in your own decisions?

5. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate commitment to God's tasks in our daily lives, similar to the servant's dedication in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:12-14
The servant's prayer for guidance shows his reliance on God, which is answered when he meets Rebekah. This connection emphasizes the theme of divine providence.

Luke 10:38-42
The account of Mary and Martha, where Mary chooses to listen to Jesus rather than be distracted by hospitality, parallels the servant's prioritization of his mission over the meal.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord and acknowledging Him in all ways is exemplified by the servant's actions and reliance on God's guidance.