Genesis 24:61

Then Rebekah and her servant girls got ready, mounted the camels, and followed the man. So the servant took Rebekah and left.

Study Bible

Then Rebekah and her servant girls got ready
This phrase indicates preparation and willingness to embark on a significant journey. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, such readiness reflects obedience and trust. Rebekah's decision to leave her family and homeland mirrors the call of Abraham in Genesis 12:1, where he was called to leave his country and go to a land God would show him. This act of faith is a precursor to the Christian call to follow Christ, leaving behind the old life for a new one.

mounted the camels
Camels were a sign of wealth and were used for long-distance travel across the desert. This detail highlights the prosperity of Abraham's household and the provision made for Rebekah's journey. The use of camels also underscores the significant distance between Haran and Canaan, emphasizing the commitment and sacrifice involved in Rebekah's decision. In a typological sense, the camels can be seen as a means of grace, carrying Rebekah to her new life, much like how believers are carried by grace to their new life in Christ.

and followed the man
Rebekah's action of following the servant, who represents Abraham, is symbolic of discipleship and submission to God's will. This mirrors the call to follow Christ, as seen in Matthew 4:19, where Jesus calls His disciples to follow Him. The servant, acting on behalf of Abraham, can be seen as a type of the Holy Spirit, who leads and guides believers to Christ, the bridegroom.

So the servant took Rebekah and left
This final phrase signifies the beginning of a new chapter in Rebekah's life, as she leaves her past behind to become the wife of Isaac. It reflects the biblical theme of leaving and cleaving, as stated in Genesis 2:24, where a man leaves his father and mother to be united with his wife. The servant's role in taking Rebekah can be seen as a parallel to the Holy Spirit's role in preparing the Church, the bride of Christ, for the heavenly bridegroom. This journey is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to find a wife for Isaac, ensuring the continuation of the covenant lineage.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A key figure in this passage, Rebekah is the daughter of Bethuel and the future wife of Isaac. Her willingness to leave her family and homeland demonstrates her faith and obedience.

2. Maidservants
These are the women who accompanied Rebekah on her journey. Their presence signifies the importance and status of Rebekah as she transitions to her new life.

3. The Servant
This is Abraham's servant, often identified as Eliezer, who was tasked with finding a wife for Isaac. His faithfulness and dedication to his master's mission are evident throughout the chapter.

4. Camels
The mode of transportation for Rebekah and her entourage, camels symbolize wealth and the provision of God for a successful journey.

5. The Journey
This event marks the beginning of Rebekah's journey from her home in Paddan Aram to Canaan, where she will become Isaac's wife, continuing the Abrahamic covenant.

Teaching Points

Faithful Obedience
Rebekah's readiness to leave her family and homeland is a powerful example of obedience to God's will. Believers are encouraged to trust and follow God's leading, even when it requires significant change.

God's Provision
The successful journey of Rebekah and the servant illustrates God's provision and faithfulness. Christians can trust that God will provide for their needs as they walk in His will.

Role of Servanthood
The servant's dedication to his mission reflects the importance of servanthood in the Christian life. Believers are called to serve faithfully, fulfilling the tasks God has entrusted to them.

Community and Support
The presence of Rebekah's maidservants highlights the importance of community and support in times of transition. Christians should seek and offer support within their faith communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and homeland challenge your own faith and obedience to God's calling in your life?

2. In what ways can you see God's provision in your life, similar to how He provided for Rebekah's journey?

3. How does the servant's faithfulness in fulfilling his mission inspire you to serve God and others in your daily life?

4. What role does community play in your spiritual journey, and how can you be a source of support for others in your faith community?

5. How do the themes of faith and obedience in Genesis 24:61 connect with other biblical accounts, such as the accounts of Abraham or Ruth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
The call of Abraham to leave his homeland parallels Rebekah's journey, highlighting themes of faith and obedience.

Hebrews 11:8-9
The faith of Abraham and his descendants, including Isaac and Rebekah, is celebrated, emphasizing the importance of trusting God's promises.

Ruth 1:16-17
Ruth's commitment to Naomi mirrors Rebekah's willingness to leave her family, showcasing loyalty and faith in God's plan.