Genesis 24:58

They called Rebekah and asked her, "Will you go with this man?" "I will go," she replied.

Study Bible

They called Rebekah and asked her,
In the context of ancient Near Eastern customs, it was unusual for a woman to be consulted in marriage arrangements. This highlights the respect and agency given to Rebekah in this narrative. The calling of Rebekah signifies a pivotal moment where her personal consent is sought, reflecting the importance of her willingness in the fulfillment of God's covenantal promises. This moment also underscores the role of divine providence in the selection of Isaac's wife, as Rebekah's decision aligns with God's plan.

“Will you go with this man?”
The question posed to Rebekah is significant as it involves leaving her family and homeland to marry Isaac, whom she has never met. This mirrors the call of Abraham in Genesis 12:1, where he was asked to leave his country and family to follow God's promise. The phrase "this man" refers to Abraham's servant, who represents Abraham and, by extension, God's will. This question tests Rebekah's faith and willingness to trust in God's plan, much like the faith demonstrated by Abraham.

“I will go,” she replied.
Rebekah's response is a testament to her faith and courage. Her willingness to go reflects a parallel to the obedience and faith of Abraham, who also responded to God's call without knowing the full details of his journey. This act of faith is a precursor to the faith required of the Israelites and later believers, who are called to trust in God's promises. Rebekah's decision is also a type of the church, the bride of Christ, who willingly follows Christ, the bridegroom, as seen in Ephesians 5:25-27. Her response is a pivotal moment in the Abrahamic narrative, ensuring the continuation of the covenant through Isaac.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
- A young woman from the family of Abraham's brother Nahor, chosen to be Isaac's wife. Her willingness to go with Abraham's servant demonstrates her faith and obedience.

2. Abraham's Servant
- Likely Eliezer, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac. His journey and actions are guided by prayer and God's providence.

3. Isaac
- The son of Abraham and Sarah, for whom a wife is being sought to continue God's covenant promise.

4. Bethuel's Household
- The family of Rebekah, including her brother Laban, who play a role in the decision-making process regarding Rebekah's future.

5. Haran
- The city where Abraham's relatives lived, and where the servant finds Rebekah.

Teaching Points

Faith and Obedience
Rebekah's response, "I will go," reflects a heart of faith and obedience. Believers are called to trust God's plans, even when they require leaving comfort zones.

Divine Guidance
The servant's reliance on prayer and God's leading is a model for seeking divine guidance in decision-making.

Family and Community
The involvement of Rebekah's family highlights the importance of community and family in making significant life decisions.

Covenant Continuation
The marriage of Isaac and Rebekah is a step in the continuation of God's covenant promises, reminding believers of their role in God's larger plan.

Willingness to Follow
Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and go to an unknown land is a powerful example of following God's call, similar to the call to discipleship in the New Testament.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and go with the servant challenge or inspire your own faith journey?

2. In what ways can we seek and recognize God's guidance in our own decision-making processes, as demonstrated by Abraham's servant?

3. How does the involvement of Rebekah's family in her decision reflect the role of community in our spiritual and personal lives?

4. What parallels can you draw between Rebekah's account and other biblical figures who demonstrated faith and obedience to God's call?

5. How can the account of Isaac and Rebekah's marriage encourage us to trust in God's timing and provision for our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The account of Rebekah's willingness to leave her family parallels the call of Abraham in Genesis 12, where he is called to leave his homeland and follow God's direction.

Rebekah's faith and decision to go with the servant can be connected to Ruth's commitment to Naomi in the Book of Ruth, showcasing loyalty and trust in God's plan.

The theme of divine guidance in choosing a spouse is echoed in Proverbs 3:5-6, which emphasizes trusting in the Lord for direction.