An Exposition of Genesis, Genesis · Chapter 24
CHAP. XXIV.
THe history of the Church being so farre carried on in the former Chapter as to the end of Sarahs life, and withall her death and funeral being recorded, with the purchase of a grave made by Abraham, to distinguish the Church from the world in death, as well as life. Three years providences toward Abrahams family are silenced, for Isaac was 37 years old, when his mother died, and now he was 40, wh…n his Father in this Chapter, under God is providing for him a wife. So that, what events were in these three yeares intervenient, the Spirit concealeth from us.
The next special matter therefore related in this Chapter after Sarahs funerall, is Gods remarkable Providence about the marriage of the promised seed Isaac, wherein we shall see how God ordereth the propagation of the Church, and in what line he is pleased to continue the same; wherein many sweet providences are observable all along.
In the whole Chapter these generalls may be observed.
1. Abrahams consultation with his servant about it. Ver. 1, 9.
2. The Servants execution of his Masters will. Ver. 10, 49.
3. The successe which God giveth to all. Ver. 50, 60.
4. The return of the servant with Rebekah. Ver. 61, 67.
In the first generall do occurre these particulars.
1. The occasion of this consultation. Ver. 1.
2. The proposal made by Abraham to his servant. Ver. 2, 3, 4.
3. The execution made by the servant. Ver. 5.
4. The reply of Abraham for his satisfaction. Ver. 6, 7, 8.
5. The servants yeilding to Abrahams desi…e. Ver. 9.
The first of these is contained in the first Verse wherein a twofold occasion of this consultation is noted.
1. Abrahams age. And Abraham was old, was gon into dayes. Hebr. Sept. and Cald. the same. This giveth him occasion now of looking out to settle the son of promise in such a state, wherein the propagation of the Church might be carried on. His yea…s were 140. no great age compared with the Fathers before, but great indeed with respect to ages following; neither was it a decrepit state, but much of strength in it as after will appear. Yet at this time he thinks it duty under God to guide for his son.
2 Abrahams wealth and family, And J hovah had bl…ssed Abraham in all things. foreign Sept. and Cald. to the same. It is a foolish phansy and false of the Jewes, that B…col is the name of a woman which should be Abrahams daughter, for he had none, and sacred History is silent of any such thing. It is an universal term onelyonly, noting the universality of Gods blessing and prospering Abraham with all substance, though he had no possession but a grave. This he thinks of also to dispose his son according to Gods will.
Learn these morall truths hence.
D. 1. Parents especially in the Church grown old should under God provide for children in marriage being ripe for it.
D. 2. It is duty for parents under God to consider of disposing their estates, when old, unto their children. Ver. 1.Ver. 1.
2. Abrahams proposal to his servant is made. Ver. 2, 3, 4. Wherein we have to observe.
1. The subject to whom he speaketh, his servant, set out in two expressions.
1. By his age. And Abraham said to his eldest servant of his house. no youth he trusts with this.
2. By his dignity, He that ruled over all that he had or was to him. that is.
1. The Chiefe.
2. The faithfullest of all.
3. The wisest, who was as his steward. This is judged to be that Eliezer. of Damascus, spoken of. Chap. 15.
2. Abrahams demand of him, which was to take an oath about his executing a special service faithfully. Herein note.
1. He calleth him to the form of swearing not read of before this time. Put I pray thee, or now, thy hand under my thigh. Sept. and Cald. same. Of this rite or ceremony of swea…ing we read here and in Jacobs case to Joseph. Gen. 47.29. The Jewes conjecture it to be the place neer Circumcision, as if it were to call upon the God of Circumcision in this matter. Some Christians have conceived the thigh to be the Hieroglyphicks of Generation, and thence look upon the Messiah to come out of Abrahams loins, and so to swear by him; but neither are convincing. It was doubtles a form used of subjection in such cases, of those who did swear fealty in any matter, and doubtles lawful. Ver. 2.Ver. 2.
2. He demands his oath in the right power and authority of it, And I will make thee swear by Jehovah the God of the heavens and the God of the earth. Sept. same. — By the word of the Lord God of heaven &c. Cald. In these Abraham draweth him onelyonly to God, he that made all and is Judge of all, whose name is honored by swearing in judgement and truth: to the worship of the onelyonly true God in this matter Abraham invites his servant.
3. He proposeth the matter of his oath which is expressed.
1. Negatively. That thou shalt not take a wife for my son of the daughters of the Canaanite, where I sit in the midst of it. Cald. same — For Isaac &c. with whom I dwell among them. Sept.
1. The subject prohibited was his servant; who is not to be understood, as if he had power of himself to bestow Isaac in marriage; but as one instrumental to perswade him or to lead him to such an act. It is probable Isaac had bin under his tuition.
2. The thing forbidden upon oath, the marriage of Isaac with any daughter of the Canaanites, among whom, Abraham was then sat down. He would not bury with them, neither would he marry his son to them, no doubt he had warrant from God for this; and it was Gods law not to marry with Idolaters. Ver. 3.Ver. 3.
2. Positively. But thou shalt go to my country and my kindred, and shalt take a wife to my son Isaac. Cald. to the same. — Where I was born and to my tribe, and thence shalt thou take &c. Sept. Herein nothing unlawful is required from him, but according as God had appointed, so he binds his servant to perform punctually; place, family, person, were all pitched on by God. Ver. 4.Ver. 4.
Quest. How should the servant take a wife for him, as a proxie?
Answ. Surely no, but as a messenger to deal in such a busines, and treat about it by commission from him, and bring her to Abrahams place for marriage and cohabitation.
Quest. Why did he not send Isaac himself, as it may seem, more fit for such a busines?
Ans. It might be upon various accounts.
1. Because he was his onelyonly son whom he could not spare.
2. Or because he might fear his stay with them if he had gone.
3. But the providence of God is the high reason who so ordered it.
It teacheth us.
D. 1. VnderUnder God it becomes parents to be provident in bestowing children for marriage.
D. 2. The gravest, wisest, holiest, and faithfullest counsellers are fittest for such work.
D. 3. Forms of swearing are usefull though not essential unto the duty. Ver. 2.
D. 4. Jehovah alone is the God of all, who must be honored in swearing by his name.
D. 5. The oath of God is justly taken against marriage with Idolaters. Ver. 3.
D. 6. Gods oath may bind members of the Church to marry in the families where God is known. Ver. 4.
3. The exception or limitation made by Abrahams servant before he took his oath. Ver. 5.Ver. 5.
Wherein observe.
1. His care supposed about the matter of his oath. And the servant said unto him, Perhaps the woman will not go after me to this land. Sept. and Cald. same. Holy prudence it was in him to avoid scruples in swearing, that he might do it in judgement, and truth, therefore he supposeth such an event which in such cases might be usuall, woman love their own families.
2. His quaere thereupon. Shall I in reducling bring back thy son to the land where thou art gon out from thence? Sept. and Cald. to the same. Herein he desires to know his mind plainly, that he might not be intangled about the matter which he sweareth, but exactly understand what was the mind of his masters imposing this duty on him: therefore he quaerieth to remoove all scruples.
Learn hence.
D. 1. In taking oaths imposed it, is a Saints duty to foresee snares and to avoid them.
D. 2. Godly prudence teacheth in swearing to undertake nothing but possibilities. To swear in judgement. Jer. 4.2.
D. 3. In swearing about matters of contingency, it is just and duty to expedite difficulties by apposit quaeries there-about.
4. The reply of Abraham to his servant followeth. Ver, 6, 7, 8. Which containeth in it three things.
1. A prohibition.Ver. 6. And Abraham said unto him, keep to thy self or take heed to thy self that thou return not my son thither. Sept. and Cald. to the same. Herein is an answear to his quaestion, that by no means Isaac may go thither, whence God had called Abraham when his son was in his loins.
Quest. How could Isaac return, seing he was never there?
Answ. It is answeared. 1. In Abrahams loins he was there, and so called out thence with his Father.
2. The term of returning may be used for any motion, so that the sense is onelyonly, Isaac must not go thither.
3. It may be used in respect of Abraham that the son should not return thither whence his Father came.
Quest. Why might not Isaac go to that land?
Answ. 1. Gods call to Abraham was to come off, he and his seed.
2. Abraham would not have his son fall under a temptation of being withdrawn from the land of promise.
3. It was appointed of God that he should sojourn in Canaan as Abraham did. Otherwise it was no more a sin for him to visit his Fathers Country, than for Jacob afterward.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Imposers of oaths ought to give just satisfaction to the scruples of them who take them.
D. 2. Expresse denial of any matter in oath must be strictly observed with all caution.
D. 3. Reversion from Gods promise to mans own choice is sinfull, and not to be allowed.
D. 4. A wife must be left and forsaken rather than God disobeyed. Ver. 6.
2. A praediction promisory, wherein we have to note.
1. The undertaker here expressed, Jehovah, described.
1. By the name of his being, He that was, and is, and is to come. He that puts into being all good events promised.
2. By his Power and propriety of place. The God of the Heavens, that is, that mighty one, whose throne is in heaven. Isai. 66.1. and from on high can do what he pleaseth.
3. By his Act of grace in separating Abraham from his Country, who took me from the house of my Father and from the land of my kindred, — where I was born, Sept. — The land of my nativity. Cald. In this is a periphrasis of God, in a special act of separation of Abraham, that under him he might gather his Church; wherein his grace had eminently appeared; this was a just ground.
1. Of his not suffering Isaac to go back.
2. Of hope, that God would bring others from thence by the same grace, who might build his family.
4. By his Covenant both spoken and sworn unto. Both who spake, and who sware unto me saying, to thy seed will I give this land. — To thee and thy seed, &c. Sept. — To thy sons, &c. Cald. Here be repeated the two immutable things wherein it was not possible for God to lye; given, that the heirs of promise should have strong consolation in all works and conditions whereunto God appointed them. As if he should say, that God who hath promised and sworn this land unto my seed, will bring a wife hither, and not carry my son back, whence I came.
2. The promise itself for incouragement. He shall send his Angel before thee or to thy face, and thou shalt take a wife to my son from thence. Sept. and Cald. same. Two things are here fore-told by Abraham in promise.
1. Help. God shall send his Angel before thee.
1. The power sending, God.
2. The assistant sent, an Angel of God a ministring, Spirit appointed an helper to the saints.
3. The end of his mission to make the way of the servant prosperous as to the work about which he was now sent.
Quest. How did the Angel help him in this matter?
Answ. 1. In garding him in his way from evil Angels who might oppose him.
2. In ordering the motions of parties, to places of meeting, and actions tending to good successe.
3. Possibly as instruments suggesting unto minds, and inclining them to yeeld to what was proposed.
2. Successe.foreign Thou shalt take a wife to my son from thence, Sept. and Cald. same. The verse is in the preter-tense but must, need be read future here, because it is a promise, and is connected with that future God will send; but herein he notes the certainty of the event, as if it were done already; doubt not, thou shalt prevail to bring a wife from thence for my son, without peradventure. Ver. 7.Ver. 7.
3. A clear resolution to the case supposed, wherein.
1. A discharge of him from his oath,Ver. 8. if the matter he supposed shall fall out. But if the woman be not willing to come after thee, then thou shalt be clear from this my oath, — Will not go with thee unto this land, &c. Sept. — From my curse. Cald. Herein his doubt is cleared in the matter of the oath, that he may not be intangled.
2. A strict charge repeated of not bringing back his son OnelyOnly thou shalt not return my son thither. This an expresse answear. Sept. and Cald. same.
It instructs us.
D. 1. It is just to impose oaths, when men can assure them of Gods promise to help them.
D. 2. The ingagement of Jehovah, God of heaven, for help, is a just ground of imposing work.
D. 3. Experience of Gods acts of grace to our selves may incourage to expect it for our children in his way.
D. 4. God who hath Covenanted and sworn greater things for his Saints, may be trusted for lesse.
D. 5. Gods Angels are used by him toward making marriages in his Church. Ver. 7.
D. 6. Where God hath ingaged by promise for any blessing, his Saints may surely expect it, Ver. 8.
2. The servants yeelding to Abraham is recorded. Ver. 9.Ver. 9. Wherein he submitts himself to his masters will.
1. In the form of swearing. And the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his Lord. Sept. and Cald. same. Herein is no more but his just obedience unto a lawful command. He did acknowledge his subjection and fealty by this rite.
2. In the act of swearing. And he sware unto him, that is, in calling upon the Lord God of heaven as witnes and judge of his true intent, whose Majesty might make him fear to offend.
3. In the matter about what he sware, upon this word or matter proposed, Sept. and Cald. same. that is, that he would faithfully performe his will about the marriage of his son, not to match him, so farre as in him lay, to the daughters of the Hittit's, but procure one for him of the house of his kindred.
It learneth us.
D. 1. Matters of duty being cleared, inferiours may submit to a lawful form of swearing thereunto.
D. 2. The Oath of God may justly be taken for faithfulnes by inferiors in civil matters. Ver. 9.
1. The next general containeth the servants execution of his Masters will, & performance of his oath in matters which he had sworn. Ver. 10.49. Wherein are,
1. His provision & journy. ver. 10.11.
2. His prayer to God. ver. 12.13.14.
3. Gods providential answear. ver. 15.21.
4. His treaty with Rebeckah. ver. 22.28.
5. His entertainment by Laban. ver. 29.33.
6. His declaring his message. ver. 34.49.
To the first. Herein are recorded these particulars.
1. His provision for his journy thus expressed. And the servant took ten camels of the camels, &c. Two expresse heads of his provision we have here named.
1. Beasts, for their journy, by nature camels, by number ten, and by propriety his Masters. These were plentiful in those countries, and reported to be swift for pace, and strong for bearing, some say 800 or 1000 weight each. These however onelyonly expressed, we must understand, had all their several men for guidance, and several burdens and furniture which they carried, all which must be understood with them; he took them not empty.
2. Goods, fitted for the busines about which he went. And all the goods of his Lord. This is read causal to the former, in a parenthesis by ours (For all the goods of his Master were in his hand), therefore he took the camels, and all that he thought fit with him. The 70 read. — And of all the goods of his Lord with him, which interprets well the Hebr. Some of the precious things and substance he took, to give presents unto them with whom he had to do. So the Cald — And carrying of all the best things of his Lord in his hand. i. e. with him. Great preparation is this.
2. His motion, And he arose and went to Aram Naharaim. — To Mesopotamia. Sept. — To Syria by Euphrates. Cald. It was the country lying between the two rivers Euphrates and Tigris. So the Hebr. and Gr. both expresse. Again further is it described to the city of Nahor. This was Carran where Terah died, whether it seemeth Nahor came, and dwelt there, but moved no further. Sept. and Cald. same.
Quest. How is this called Abrahams country?
Answ. 1. Not that it was the place of Abrahams nativity, for he came out of Ur of the Caldees.
2. But taking the continent at large for all the country between the two rivers, so are we to understand it to be stiled Abrahams. ver. 10.Ver. 10.
3. His stage or resting place, where we have to note.
1. His stop.Ver. 11. And he made his camels to kneel down without the city by a well of water. — He made them rest, &c. Sept. — To lye down. Cald. Having brought his journy to this passe so farre, he stops without the city, and waits for some more direction before he goe farther.
2. The time. At the time of the evening, the time when women who draw water goe forth. Sept. and Cald. to the same, the time is expressed 2 wayes.
1. It was evening, the latter part of the day.
2. By the work or busines of it, when the women use to come forth to draw water.
Quest. What evening was this, and how long was his journy:
Answ. 1. It is a fable that he should finish his journy in one day, it being conceived no lesse than 360 English miles.
2. It is safely conceived that he lingred not, but a competent time must needs be granted to finish such a journy; the Spirit is silent in all but onelyonly the season of the day: how many dayes his journy was, it concern's us not to know, because the Spirit thought not fit to reveal it.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Faithfulnes in making vowes will be diligent in the performing them.
D. 2. Prudence will teach men to suit provisions unto undertakings. Ver. 10.
D. 3. Providence makes stops to creatures where it hath more to discover to them.
D. 4. It is better staying in the field by a littlewater with God, than to go into cities without him.
D. 5. Rest for man and beast is but reasonable after labour and travel.
D. 6. Honest labours become the greatest ladies even in houshold affairs; it was an honor among the Saints of old. Ver. 11.
2. Upon this stop the servant next betakes himself to God in prayer, ver. 12.13.14. Wherein.
1. The notion under which he speakes to God. And he said Jehovah, God of my Lord Abraham. Sept. and Cald. same. In prayer he conceiveth God suitably to his petition.
1. As the cause of all being, who could bring forth what he pleased.
2. As a God in Covenant with his master whose matters he now acted.
3. As a God of grace, so he was Abrahams God, and by that name he resolved to be known to his for ever.
2. His petition put up.
1. As to himself. Cause it to meet before me or bring it to passe I pray thee before me this day — Make it perspicuous before me this day. Sept. — Meet me I pray this day Cald. some referre it to the woman, make her to meet mee, but it is better to referre it to the whole event, bring it to passe for me even the work about which I come, good speed is a good paraphrase.
2. As to Abraham his Lord, And do mercy or kindnes for my Lord Abraham. Sept. and Cald. same. that which was good successe to him, would be mercy and kindnes to his Lord. This he beggeth, viz. His pointing out a wife for Isaac of Gods own choosing, ver. 12.Ver. 12.
3. The signall of this mercy which he desireth, wherein.
1. He proposeth his own posture. I am standing by the well of waters. Sept. and Cald. same. that is, here under thy providence I wil set my self to waite the issue.
2. He supposeth the customary addresse of the women in the evening. And the daughters of the city of the men come forth to draw water. Cald. same. — Dwelling in the city. Sept. So it seemeth the custom was in those hot countryes to take that season for that work. Ver. 13.Ver. 13.
3. He desireth a signe. And there be a young maid that I say unto her, let down I pray thee thy pitcher, and I will drink, and she shall say drink, and I will give drink to thy camels also, her thou hast appointed evidently for thy servant Isaac. Prepared. Sept. and Cald. to the same. No difficulty in these words for the letter, onelyonly several concurring circumstances expressed to make up this signe.
4. His judgment upon the event And herein I shall know that thou hast done mercy to my Lord-Abraham, is added by Sept. and Cald. so he desireth in this Way to be confirmed.
Quest. Was it lawfull for him to begge this signe?
Ans. 1. It appears lawful in him because God answeared it, and gave in his desire.
2. This was not asked without Gods instinct.
3. It was proper to discover the ingenuity of the party desired for a wife. Yet this may not be brought into an ordinary example to limit God in prayer, but reasonable discoveries in doubtful cases may be desired with submission to Gods will. ver. 14.Ver. 14.
Which teacheth us.
D. 1. In hard undertakings it is best to call in God by prayer upon mans indeavours. He helps to purpose.
D. 2. God in his being, power, grace and Covenant with his, is to be conceived by petitioners in their addresse by prayer to him.
D. 3. Good, successe in events desired depend onelyonly upon God.
D. 4. The successe of faithful servants is mercy to their masters, which they should desire.
D. 5. It is likely to prove best when matters are committed by masters to the care of praying servants Ver. 12.
D. 6. God doth indulge somtimes visible signes to be asked, to assure his favour to his own
D. 7. It becomes man to wait when he desires God to appear. I Stand. Ver. 13.
D. 8. In desiring any visible signe of Gods respect, God must not be limited.
D. 9. God doth appoint and determine wives eminently, for his owne specially.
D. 10. Ingenuity and courtesy to strangers is a good guesse for one to make a good wife.
D. 11. Observation of Gods mercies unto faith and prayer is the true use of his signal manifestations. So did Abrahams servant. Ver. 14.
3. Gods providentiall answear to the mans prayer followeth. ver. 15.21.
Wherein are to be considered several steps of Gods providence in this matter.
1. The immediat comming of Rebeckah unto the place. ver. 15.16.
The instancy of it is expressed, And it was before he had finished to speak, behold Rebeckah came out. — Speaking in his mind. Sept. — Before he ceased to speak. Cald. It seemeth that providence had ordered a present return to his prayer, and sends Rebekah instantly to the place, which is marked with a behold.
2. The description of the party, inserted here by Moses.
1. By her line. Which was born to Bethuel, &c. One of the same family to whom he was sent, and of the same line declared by Abraham.
2. By her posture, also her work, and her pitcher upon her shoulder. Having a pitcher &c Sept. Such was her imployment. when God sent her as an answer of prayer for a wi…e, she was about honest labour ver. 15.Ver. 15.
3. By her personal feature, And the maid was exceeding good in countenance. Sept. and Cald. same, that is, very beautiful, of an exceeding fair countenance. This is joined with labour.
4. By her virginity and chastity, a virgin and m…n h…d not known her. Sept. and Cald. same. This double expression of her pu…ity is not in vain, to note what a wife God provides for prayer, she was und…filed, untouched, fit to be a mother in the Church. This also is joyned to her beauty.
5. By her work. And she went down to the well and filled her pitcher or water pot, and came up. Sept. and Cald. to the same. She went about her busines without delay or gazing upon any thing, and comes up to return to her place again. ver. 16.Ver. 16.
3. The servants addresse to her for making trial. And the servant ran to meet her and said, refresh me, I pray thee, with a little water of thy pitcher. Give me drinke, &c. Sept. Let me take a little, &c. Cald. Here providence orders him to begin the signe which he begged; he did not onelyonly pray but act, and herein works together with God. ver. 17.Ver. 17.
4. The next work of providence in giving the signe desired, is upon her yeelding in all particulars which were begged.
1. Her courteous grant to him. And she said, drink my Lord, &c. Sept. and Cald. same. She answereth his heart in this, and that with due respect unto strangers.
2. Her haste to do what she said. And she hasted, herein providence quickens her, and satisfieth him.
3. Her performance to him. And she gave him drink Sept. and Cald. same. Herein she answered Gods motion and his desire. ver. 18.Ver. 18.
4. Her respect to his beasts, as he also desired might be in the token, wherein we have to note.
1. Her profer, And she finished to make him drink, and said, also for thy camels will I draw, untill they have finished to drink. — Until all drink. Sep. Herein is the signe more fully answeared, God so moving her Spirit to give in the answear desired, wherein much ingenuity, goodnes, and humility appears, to be a servant to a strangers beasts. ver. 19.Ver. 19.
2. Her speed in this also,Ver, 20. And she hasted and emptied her pitcher into the trough, and ran again unto the well. So God moveth and so she runneth.
3. Her performance of her word, And she drew for all the camels; so his signe was finished.
5. The mans observation of Gods fulfilling his desire in all this carriage of hers. Wherein are recorded.
1. His wonder to see things so fall out. And the man was wondring at her. And the man learned or considered her. The answear of God so eminently and so presently and in the same kind as desired could not but put him to a maze, and serious thoughts about the sweet carriage of this maid.
2. His silence for a time He was silent. — Being silent in contempl…ting. Cald. This notes his serious pondering such a rare event as this to receive Gods mind in that, and meditate thereon.
3. His scope. To know wheth…r J hovah had prospered his way or not. Sept. and Cald. same. Thi… signe he had prayed for to assure him of God… blessing of him in his journy and undertaking, and now when God had so fully made it visible, he desires to take knowledge of what was done, that himself might be incouraged to duty, and God glorified. ver. 21.Ver. 21.
From all these we may learn.
D. 1. God somtimes answears his in the instant of prayer.
D. 2. Providence orders motions for time and place in sitting persons for marriage according to his will.
D. 3. The fittest wives and husbands are such who are the answear of prayer.
D. 4. Goodnes of family, honesty of calling, comelines of person, purity of conversation, industry in labour, concurre sweetly to make a good consort. Ver. 15.16.
D. 5. After praying to God there must be acting by man to find Gods answear.
D. 6. Humble addresses become strangers in desiring courtesies; as answears from Gods mercy. Ver. 17.
D. 7. Ingenuity is quick and active in doing courtesy unto strangers.
D. 8. Much kindnes somtimes is shewed in giving but a little water Ver. 18.
D. 9. Ingenuous Spirits are free to do good to beasts as well as men. Ve…. 19.
D. 10. It is a sweet disposition to satisfy man and beast until they be full.
D. 11. Providence makes good the signes he gives to his to the uttermost Ver. 20.
D. 12 Wonderful are Gods providences many times in answearing prayer, and so to be admired.
D. 13. A silent and serious consideration there should be about the rare events of Gods providence.
D. 14. The knowledge of Gods mind in all providences is to be labored after for mans duty and Gods glory. Ver. 21.
4. The next thing in the servants execution, is his treaty and dealing with Rebeckah. ver. 22.28.
Wherein occurre to view.
1. The opportunity of it. And it was as the camels had finished to drink. Sept and Cald to the same. The point of time was when she had finished her courtesy, and the camels as well as himself were satisfied with water. This kindnes being finished, and so soon as her labour was ended. This notes the time of succeding actions.
2. The mans preparing to it by providing some token of gratitude for her voluntary pains. And that or then the man took an ear-ering or Jewel o gold half a shekel the weight thereof and two bracelets for her hands, ten shekels of gold were the weight of them. — Two ear-rings a drachm weight, &c. Sept. — Ear-ring weighing one shekel, &c. Cald. In these we have but his providing or getting them in readines for her as he reports afterward. v 47 He was satisfied whose daughters he was before he gave them to her; now he had them at hand to bestow.
Qu. It is queried here about the weight, because shekel is not named in the text, but onelyonly the words halfe and ten, what the due estimat should be?
Answ. 1. It is usual to understand shekel when the number or measure is only named, with the Hebrewes.
2. It is conceived by some that the half is referred to ten, and so notes five shekels; but there is no sure footing for that, because they are referred to divers things, and such as may be thought not to be neer of that weight.
3. The right judgment of weights in that time can onelyonly be made by conjecture, which is uncertain. This is to be presumed they were of worth sutable to the persons and busines intended.
Quest. Are these ornaments concluded lawful for all, from this example of Rebeckah?
Answ. 1. That they may be lawful with all circumstances of persons, times and places as they were used now is not doubted.
2. To draw from hence a liberty for all sorts to be as profuse as they please in apparrel and ornaments, is wicked; the Spirit of God speaketh expressely against it. 1. Pet. 3.3. &c.
3. It is more safe to gather a rule of imitation from Rebeckahs labour, than ornaments; many strive to wear her Jewels, that think it shame to do her work. Her heart adorning was better than that of her body. Ver. 22.Ver. 22.
3. His expostulation with her in two questions.
1. About her parentage. And he asked her or said, &c. Sept. and Cald. the same with Hebr. Wherein he inquireth to know whether it were the family unto which he was sent, whose daughter art thou, tel me I pray thee; declare it before me.
2. About his entertainment. Is there in the house of …hy Father place for us to lodge? — Is there with thy Father, &c. Sept. — Place sufficient to house or stay in. Cald. Herein he prudently seek's occasion of imparting his busines, to take up his lodging where his affaires lay. Ver. 23.Ver. 23.
4. Her answear to both his questions proposed.
1. To the former. And she said unto him, I am the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Milcah whom she bare to Nachor. Sept. and Cal to the same. Her…in he hath satisfaction that God had directed him unto the right family. Ver. 24.Ver. 24.
2. To the latter. And she said unto him, both straw and much provender are with us, also place to lodge. Sept. and Cald. to the same. Herein also he is satisfied of Gods further giving him opportunity to perfect the busines about which he came, of which he taketh no small notice, as appear's by his turning to God in the next verses. Ver. 25.Ver. 25.
5. The mans acknowledgment of God in all these occurrences, wherein are to be noted.
1. His thankful posture, And the man bended down the head, and bowed himself to Jehovah. — And the man being well pleased worshipped the Lord. Sept. — And the man bowed his knees and prayed before the Lord. Cald. Herein he turns from the maid and betakes himself to God again; the creatures return was good, but God gave the answear by her, therefore he worshippeth now before the Lord. Ver. 26.
2. His thankful expression unto God, wherein observe.
1. His blessing. And he said blessed be Jehovah God of my Lord Abraham. Sept and Cald. same. As his heart was affected, so his tongue expresseth praise and blessing unto God; magnifying his being and his grace expressed in outward providences to his people.
2. The reason of his blessing, which is twofold.
1. To his matter. Who hath not left of his mercy and his truth from my Lord — Who hast not left of thy righteousnes, &c. Sept. Cald. to the same with Hebr. It is a figurative speech per liptoten, where lesse is expressed than meant, God had not onelyonly not left of, but continued and pursued to shew mercy and truth to Abraham his Covenanted servant, even in this outward providence for his son; his faithfulnes and goodnes were still continued to him.
2. To himself as the instrument. I being in the way Jehovah led me to the house of the brethren of my Lord. — And God hath prosperoussly led me to the house of my Lords brother to take a wife for his son. Sept. — And God hath led me in the right way, &c. Cald. In it.
1. He acknowledgeth himself used, he was in the way.
2. He ascribes his guidance to Jehovah, not the Angel.
3. He expresseth the terme of his journy even the place whither Abraham sent him, therefore he blesseth Jehovah.
6. Rebeckahs relation of these providences at home, which made way for further transactions. And the damsel ran and told her mothers house according to these words. Sept. and Cald. to the same.
1. Her speed is expressed.
2. Her relation of all passages.
3. The parties to whom, her mothers house, or as many as were there.
Quest. Why it is called her mothers, is questioned, rather than her Fathers who was yet alive?
Answ. No great moment is in it. Doubtles all were in the same family, and her mother might have special roomes to her self, as they several tents, where Abraham lived; It might be the neerest and the speediest way to communicate it to Father and mother also, by whose direction Laban was sent to invite the man to come neer.
Learn from all.
D. 1. Ingenuous Spirits perform what kindnes they doe offer.
D. 2. Courtesies being finished, it is time to prepare for thanks.
D. 3. Ornaments best sute with them that are of pure minds, and ingenuous conversations.
D. 4. Gifts are not unlawful, being justly bestowed in gratefulnes, and in pursuance of lawful desires. Ver. 22.
D. 5. Prudence finds out by queries such as are appointed unto marriage by Gods providence.
D. 6. Inquiry for a nights lodging may conduce under providence to further great affairs. Ver. 23.
D. 7. Providence ordereth the desired answear, concerning persons sought for, to them whom God sends.
D. 8. Answears of abundant provision God maketh unto strangers sent about his busines. All sutes well. Ver. 24.25.
D. 9. What-ever answears of good, men have from creatures they should produce Worship to God. Ver. 26.
D. 10. Gracious hearts blesse God by praising, when he blesseth them by prospering.
D. 11. Good servants blesse God for mercy and truth to their masters as for guidance to themselves.
D. 12. Though Angels minister to us, God alone must have the glory of all good events. Ver. 27.
D. 13. In such returns God speed's instruments to further on his own designes of good to his servants. Ver. 28.Ver. 28.
5. The next particular is his entertainment by Laban expressed. ver. 29.33. Wherein we have to note.
1. The invitation made unto the man. Ver. 29.30.31. And therein.
1. The party inviting, described both by his relation, he was brother to Rebecka, and Laban is he called.
2. The speed for invitation. He ran forth to the man unto the well, doubtles not without command and license from his Father, and having that, he tarrieth not but hastens to dispatch it. Ver. 29.Ver. 29.
3. Tne motive of his speed which was twosold.
1. From what he saw, even the mans courtesies unto his sister. And it was as he saw the eare-ring, &c.
2. From what he heard. And as he heard the words of Rebecca his sister.
1. Relating the mans word to her.
2. Declaring where yet he was. When thus he had seen and heard, he speeds unto him and there he finds him standing, Behold he stood by the camels, there he was expecting further moovings of providence and discoveries of Gods will before he would stirre. Ver. 30.Ver. 30.
4. The invitation itself.
1. By advocation. Come in thou blessed of the Lord, wherein is considerable.
1. His acknowledgment of Jehovah as the author of blessing, God was known in that place though but in obscurity and worshipped, though not so purely as with Abraham.
2. His honorable respect unto the man in his title used, thou blessed of Jehovah. A stile of great dignity, such a one whom God honored. All sheweth that some religion of God was among them.
2. By expostulation. Wherefore standest thou abroad. Wherein is a kind of reasoning with him about his stop, as being unseemly that such a one should not have better entertainment.
5. By his preparation, And I have prepared the house and room for the camels. All is ready, therefore I pray thee come in. This the invitation. Ver. 31.Ver. 31.
Ver. 32.2. The acceptance of this invitation, And the man came into the house. He thankfully accepts the invitation from God and him.
3. The entertainments.
1. As to beasts. Ungirding and giving them provender.
Ver. 33.2. As to man, water for feet as in these countryes needful, and meat for their bellies. All set out.
4. The mans refusall to eat till his busines were done which he had to propose, and his liberty for speaking, And he said I will not eat until I have spoken my words, and he said, that is, Laban spake to him, speak on. Ver. 32.33.
From this passage learn.
D. 1. Providence maketh relations and useth them to carry on his ends to each other and therein to his Church.
D. 2. Providence spurres on its instruments to serve its ends. Ver. 29.
D. 3. Outward kindnesses received and seen, help on men under providence to do Gods work more lively, and chearfully.
D. 4. Children of providence stand still and wait which way it will please God to guide them. So this man. Ver. 30.
D. 5. He that stayeth for Gods guidance shall find some token of it from creatures kindnes.
D. 6. Invitation of holy strangers to harbour, is Gods motion and mans commendation.
D. 7. Some knowledge of Jehovah was in other parts though not so pure as in Abrahams family.
D. 8. God honoreth his faithful servants before them who have any even the least knowledge of him.
D. 9. Ingenuity is pressing upon holy strangers to accept its entertainment.
D. 10. Free Spirits prepare for man and beast liberally before they invite them. All is ready. Ver. 31.
D. 11. It beseems Gods servants to accept of ingenuous invitations.
D. 12. Mercy to man and beast in their necessities is becomming them that know God.
D. 13. Good servants mind their trust from God and man to do it, rather than their meat.
D. 14. Ingenuity will not stop the hand of the diligent, nor hinder the work of faithful ones but help it on. Ver. 32, 33.
6. The last particular in the servants execution is the delivery of his message upon which he was sent. Wherein.
1. He declareth his, relation, and therein.
1.Ver. 33. His Masters name, I am Abrahams servant. Wherein he professeth his own subjection and his Masters dominion; which noteth his ingenuity that he commeth not in his own name. Ver. 54.
2. His Masters greatnes of which also he mentioneth.
1. The authour. And Jehovah hath blessed my Master exceedingly; herein he speaketh as one fearing God, acknowledging Abrahams wealth in respect of its rise, was not mans procuring, but Gods blessing. Jehovah onelyonly the authour and donor of Abrahams riches. And all this is blessing. Otherwise wealth is a curse in the tents of the wicked. The donor God, the gift, a blessing. The measure exceeding greet.
2. His state itself, And he is magnified or made great, — He is exalted, as the 70 read. This expression note's that however he were a sojourner, yet he was a Prince, greatly inriched and exalted among the Princes, that he was a fear to them, great in the earth, and great with God.
3. His particular substance set forth in its kinds. And he hath given to him sheep, and oxen, silver and gold, and men servants, and maid servants, and camels, and asses. All these tend but to shew greatnes of the estate where with God blessed him: which all together declare him to be very rich. Ver. 35.Ver. 35.
3. His Masters wife and issue. And Sarah, my Lords wife, bare unto my Lord a son, after that she was old, or after her old age. The 70. read, one son after he, that is, Abraham, was old. Where he toucheth.
1. The wife of honorable report Sarah.
2. Her fruit to Abraham, a son, one onelyonly son, and that an eminent son Isaac.
3. The miracle of the birth, after that both he and she were old, and past hopes of having children; such a miraculous son doth he mention here unto them, that Abraham had.
4. His Masters will in disposing his estate. Tnd he hath given to him all that was to him. Or was his. That is, all that Abraham had, as to the bulk of his estate. Thus farre by his relation he prepareth for the motion he was to make. Ver. 36.Ver. 36.
Learn thence.
D. 1. Fidelity makes servants own and honour their Masters in performing their trust. Especially in the Church. Ver. 34.
D. 2. Pious souls know and acknowledge God to be the onelyonly, authour of the prosperity of his servants.
D. 3. Prosperity of believers is Gods blessing. This maketh rich and addes no sorrow. Pro. 10 22.
D. 4. God is not straitned towards his in outward things, when they are good for them.
D. 5. Greatnes of estate and honour somtimes God uniteth unto godlines. So it was here with Abraham. Ver. 35.
D. 6. Gods miracles should be related when they make to his praise, and his peoples good. So doth he.
D. 7. The heir of promise may be the heir of all things here below. So Isaac. So eminently Christ was.
D. 8. It is but rational in seeking marriage to declare the state, in measure, which God hath given. Ver. 36.
2. He declareth his commission from his Master about his present busines. Wherein he repeateth.
1. His Masters imposition of an oath on him with the matter of it.
1. Negatively, Thou shalt not take, &c. Ver. 37.Ver. 17.
2. Affirmatively, But thou shalt go, &c.
The form of this expression in the letter is by way of imprecation, if thou shalt not go to the house of my Father, then the oath imported some evil to befal him; our translatours read as the 70. thou shalt go, &c. For that was the intent of the imprecation, on…ly the form of words in the original is more pressing.
But the servant seemeth not to repeat his Masters words,Dub. no mention was of his Fathers house? Ver. 4, &c.
The servant dealeth faithfully in his relation, for though not the same words,Sol. yet the same mind of Abraham was related by him, which was enough. Ver. 38.Ver. 38.
2. His own exception, in the same terms though not in every word yet enough to his purpose, and I said to my Lord, &c. to the same sense as before. Ver. 39.Ver. 39.
3.Ver. 40. His Masters reply which he relates with some variety of words, but to the same meaning. Wherein.
1. Ahrahams faith is discovered concerning 3 things.
1. That God would send his Angel as a guide, onelyonly here he describeth God in another manne…, Jehovah to whose face I have walked. The 70 read, The Lord whom I have pleased before him. The Calde, — In whose sight I serve. Before, he described Godby an act of grace to Abraham, and here by Abrahams respect and carriage unto God, now Abrahams walking, serving, or pleasing God is but consequent upon Gods favour and respect to him. But upon both Abraham is confident, that God would send his Angel to carry on his servant in his work.
2. That his way should be prospered. He will direct thy way. Cald. That is, Jehovah will cause peace and mercy to be with you in your way and give successe.
3. That the event should be certain And thou shal… take a wife for my son of my family, &c. Tins he relateth of Abrahams saith in this matter. Ver. 40.
2. Abrahams discharge of him in case it should not be so, or that they should not vouchsafe a wife for his son as desired, in that case however thou shalt be clear from thine oath, &c. Ver. 41.Ver. 41. As before.
Learn here.
D. 1. It is but rational that commission be declared by servants in solemne undertakings for their Lords.
D. 2. Jehovahs respect to his Saints maketh them walk with him.
D. 3. Such walkers with God may believe that all shall be for good unto them which he hath promised. Ver 40.
3 He declareth Gods concurrence in the busines as to that dayes providence, wherein he reporteth.
1. His accesse to the well and his prayer there, as before expressed. Ver. 42.43.44.
2. Gods answear in giving his signe desired. Ver. 45.46.
3. His parly with Rebecca which made known her family. Ver. 47. Where the order of his actions is more plain, that he first knew her family and then gratified her with gifts. The expression of his putting on the earering, &c. Importeth, he gave her them to put on.
4. His Worship of God, in way of thankfulnes, as before expressed. Ver. 48. Learn we may.
D. 1. Gods concurrence in pointing out marriages is to be specially observed, & reported in order to good successe.
D. 2. Gracious soules thankfully take notice of providences, to use them to Gods glory & his creatures good. v. 48
4. He propoundeth after all this, the matter unto the parents and friends, as if he should say, seing thus it is so, you have heard my busines, my relation, my commission, and Gods concurrence, before I eat I must have your answear, wherein
1. His instancy and now; delay me not, now in this instant answear me.
2. His proposal two wayes.
1. About their grant. If you be doing mercy and truth with my Lord, declare it to me. This phrase was attributed unto God, Ver. 27. But here to Bethuel and the rest; now this is a desire of their consent that Rebecca should be given to Isaac to wife; it is expressed under mercy and truth, as terms well suting this work, shewing kindnes and faithfulnes to Abraham in the matter, if so ye grant it, tel me.
2. About their denial, but if not, tell me also, let me have your answear one way or other.
3. The end of his importunity, that he might know unto what to trust, and I will look, or turn my self, to the right hand or to the left; a proverbial expression to note indifferency of taking other wayes, if this be not the right: it is but fabulous which the Jewes adde, that he would offer a daughter of his own. His desire is onelyonly in the way of God to have their consent, or if not, to depart whether God called him.
D. 1. Fidelity in servants is very instant in the dispatch of their Masters busines.
D. 2. Parental consent is necessary to be required in marriage, that it be in the Lord.
D. 3. Freenes from compassion is due to all whose consent such matters concern. V. 49.
3. The next general head of this chapter, is the successe and good issue of this busines, ver. 50.60. Wherein.
1. The answear of Rebeckahs Father and friends unto this proposal: and therein note.
1. The parties answearing.Ver. 50. And Laban answeared and Bethuel, and said.— And Laban and Bethuel answering said. Sept. The Father and brother do here give answear to the matter proposed, yet not exclusively to the consent of the mother and Rebeckah her self, but inclusively. The onelyonly scruple here is, why Laban is named before his Father, which being not orderly, some take Bethuel for another brother, as conceiving the Father to be dead, but without ground. Other of the Hebr. charge Laban as faulty in being so forward, But the scripture observes no such fault in him. The order of naming is arbitrary with Gods Spirit, and it may be that Bethuel spake by Laban in giving his consent; the Father by son. However it be, the matter here is their joint reply and answear.
2. The matter of their answear expressed 3 wayes.
1. By acknowledgment that God was the authour and guide of this affair, The word or thing is gone sorth from Jehovah, — From the Lord the word is gone out. Cald. Wherein they acknowledge.
1. Jehovahs authority in managing the affaires of men, and such of this kind.
2. The actual progresse of this matter so farre as to be brought about by him. Though they lived in corrupt times and places, yet they acknowledge God in the wayes of his providence. So God did preserve some discoveries of himself, out of his Church.
2. By denying any opposition to this providence. We can not spaak to thee evil or good. — We shall not be able to gain-say evill or good. Sept. Cald. as Hebr. In which passage they acknowledge such clear discovery of Gods will in this matter, that they take it as irresistible; therefore the meaning of the expression is well paraphrased by the 70. we cannot gain-say thee any thing in this matter, either in pretense of evil or good, to urge any thing against Gods mind, which seemeth to be so clear to us, that we are concluded in it. We cannot deny. Ver. 50.
3. By consenting to his desire, wherein are delivered.
1. Their grant. Behold Rebeckah is before thee, take her, and go, and let her be wife to the son of thy Lord. — Taking her return, &c. Sept. Cald. as Hebr. Here is as much as they can say for themselves, they grant Rebeckah for wife to Isaac. But doubtles with her own consent also included
2. Their reason of granting. According to what Jehovah hath spoken. Sept. and Cald. same. Gods will is the rule of their grant; God will have it so, therefore we will have it thus also. Let the will of God be done.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Reasonable replies are due from parents and rulers to reasonable demands about marriage for their children.
D. 2. Rare providences convince such as have any knowledge of God of his ordering affaires below, especially as to marriage.
D. 3. Jehovah doth moove and bring forth the issues of marriage eminently to his own.
D. 4. Gods will declared eminently stops men from contradicting upon any pretense what-ever. Ver. 50.
D. 5. Just grant of children in marriage is that which is a reasonable duty for parents.
D. 6. Gods grant in Heaven determin's mans grant on earth in point of marriage. Ver. 51.Ver. 51.
2. The servants resentment of this answear and his return to it, which is two wayes expressed.
1. Toward God. And it was when the servant of Abraham heard their words, that he bowed himself on the earth to Jehovah. — He worshipped the Lord, Sept. — He adored before the Lord. Cald. Wherein we have.
1. The event mentioned which was their consent given and heard by their words.
2. The duty incumbent expressed, humble prostration to Jehovah, which notes his faith, humility, and thankfulnes unto the Lord to whome he ascribeth all these events which he had seen. This is the third time mentioned in this Chapter of his dealing with God in this matter by prayer and praise. Ver. 52.Ver. 52.
Learn we here.
D. 1. Events of providence by creatures, are to be listened unto and observed as comming from God.
D. 2. Observation of such good providences by creatures should work to the humble worshipping and praise of God. Ver. 52.
2. Toward them.Ver. 53. And the servant brought forth vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, and gave to Rebeckah herself, and precious things he gave to her brother and to her mother. In all which he dealeth with creatures according to their kindnes, after he had worshipped the Lord for his goodnes in guiding all their hearts.
1. His presents are costly Jewels, and vestments of gold and silver, with other precious things. — Gifts. Sept.
2. The parties that were presented with them, Rebekah the chief, mother, and brother in their places.
3. Freenes in all, he giveth them, as having commission from his Lord to do liberally as became the busines about which he went.
Learn from it.
D. 1. God having his acknowledgment in all good events, creatures may have their due respects in concurring with them.
D. 2. Presents of thankfulnes are rational and commendable to them who deal kindly with Gods Servants
D. 3. Noblenes and liberality according to abilities becommeth Gods servants especially in order to marriage. Ver. 23.
3. The comfortable society between them afrer all this, wherein are related.
1. Their refreshing after this journy. And they did eat and, drink he and the men that were with him, and lodged the night, and rose in the morning. —. S…pt. Sept. in all which, providence also appears in giving food and rest and refreshment to his. These are helps in the way to hold out.
2 The hast which the servant makes after his busines compleated to return to his Master. And he said send me to my Lord, — Send me away that I may go to my Lord. Sept. Cald. as Hebr. Here his sedulity and faithfulnes appears more to give his Lord a speedy account of the performance of his Oath, and Gods prospering of him; therefore he craves speedy dismission. Ver. 54.Ver. 54.
3. The stop indeavoured for a time by the brother, &c. And her brother said and her mother, let the maid abide with us dayes, even ten or a tenth, afterward thou shall go. This demand for a little stay was from natural affection doubtles being unwilling to send away a daughter so farre upon so little warning, all the difficulty in the letter here is about the number 10, the Sept. read, — Daies about ten. The Cald. Somtime, or ten months, which seemeth to be an unreasonable demand. It is avain conceit of the Jewes that 7 dayes she should mourn for her Father now dead, for here is no mention of his death, neither is it probable the departure would have bin so sudden, had such an event fallen out. Ver. 55.Ver. 55.
4. The servants indeavour to remoove this stop. And he said unto them, delay me not for the Lord hath prospered my way, send me away, and I will go to my Lord. Sep. and Cald. to the same.
1. He intreats away all hindrance.
2. He giveth his reason, Jehovah hath prospered me, and speeded me, therefore delay me not.
3. He reneweth his desire. Send me away that I may go to my Lord. Ver. 56.Ver. 56.
5. Their consultation with Rebeckah, where,
1. Their counsel taken, Let us call, or we will call, the maid, and aske at her mouth, that is, to see how her heart was moved V. 57.Ver. 57.
2. Their call of her and their question to her, with her answear of grant. And they called Rebeckah and said unto her, wilt thou go with this man, and she said, I wil go. So God mooved her. Sept. to go speedily, where he would have her. V. 58.Ver. 58.
6. Their yeelding to the man at his importunity, wherein we have to note.
1. Their dismission of their sister, &c. And they sent a way Rebeckah their sister and her nurse, and the servant of Abraham, and his men. It is reported but shortly. Yet doubtles their dismission was honorable, and with more circumstances than are reported, — Her goods. Sep. So farre as is spoken Rebeckah is attended with her maid, or nurse, and Abrahams servant sufficiently attended. This nurse is conceived to be Deborah whose death is mentioned. Gen. 35.8. V. 59.Ver. 59.
2. Th…ir benediction. And they blessed Rebeckah, and said, our Sister, be thou for thousands of ten thousands, and let thy seed inherit the gate of them that hate it. — For thousands of miriads. Sept. — Thy sons possesse the gates of their enemies. Cald. Herein are observable.
2. The form of blessing, it was by speaking well to them, and wishing good upon them from God, whom they blessed: no more can creatures do in blessing. Yet here it is observable that the fear of God was in some measure among them.
2. The matter of their blessing standing in two petitions.
1. For multiplicity of seed. Be thou for thousands of millions, as ours read i. e. The mother or grandmother of so many, even of an innumerable seed. A quiver full of these arrowes were accounted mercies indeed in those and after times. Ps. 127.4.5.
2. For dignity of seed in prevalency and victory over their enemies and haters; which, in the letter, notes temporal power, prevalency and greatnes; but as given by God, it carrieth in it, power in the Church, spirituall, over the gates of hell. Gen. 22.17. This blessing God gave to Abrahams seed, and unto the same in words are their hearts guided in blessing Rebeckah their sister. Ver. 60.Ver. 60.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Gods favour being manifested in his providences, naturall and comfortable refreshings may be used.
D. 2. After refreshings needfull, return to duty and just imployments is beseeming Gods servants.
D. 3. Sedulity and speed concern faithfull servants in their trust committed by their Masters to them. V. 54.
D. 4. Naturall affection will not easily part with neere and dear relations V. 55.
D. 5. Gods call, if apparent, is reason sufficient to take of the delayes of naturall desire.
D. 6. Nothing but haste with good speed will content faithfull servants intrusted. V. 56.
D. 7. Answears from creatures may help to know Gods mind, and so farre are to be consulted. V. 5. Call the damsell and know, &c.
D. 8. Childrens consent as well as parents must be had in marriage.
D. 9. God somtimes giveth in answears of his will by mooving the hearts of creatures. V 58.
D 10. Fear of God in any measure will yeeld to Gods will when so revealed.
D. 11. Neerest relations must part to give way to the union of marriage.
D. 12. Such dismission of relations should be sutable to the conditions of men. V. 59.
D. 13. The feare of God will not send away relations from a family without a blessing.
D. 14. Fruitfulnes of the womb is a great blessing from God on his People.
D. 15. Power and prevalency of the Churches seed over all enemies is a sweet blessing.
D. 16 All this, even to the vanquishing of the gates of hell, is desirable by Gods people V. 60.
D. 17. Marriage should not be yeelded without a blessing, especially in the Church. And they blessed her and sent her away.
Ver. 61.4. The last general of this Chapter is the history of the servants return with Rebekah unto his Masters house. V. 61. 67. Wherein we may note. 1. Her departure from her fathers house, of which is observed briefly somthing of Rebekah and Rebekah arose, &c.
1 Her taking leave she arose, so Sept. and Cald. & doubtles as in order to her journy, so in duty to her relations; though every action be not expresly named with she did, yet doubtles, she could not leave her fathers house, but with expression of natural affection and duty to all, and this done she hasteth to her journy.
2. Her retinue, and her damsells or maids, so that not onelyonly her nurse, but many attendants seem here to go with her.
3. Her taking camell with her maids, they where carried or rode on camells. They got upon the camells. Sept. and Cald. or ascended.
4. Their motion, and they went after the man with the man, as Sept. That is they followed him as their guide in their journy.
2. Somthing of the servant.
1. His reception of Rebekah to his charge and the servant tooke Rebekah, that is, as doubtles solemnly she was committed to his tender care, so he entertains her with all respect, and taketh her under his protection.
2. His motion, and he went away or depar…ed. With all his company and charge upon him. So she leaveth father and mother and relations to go to an husband in the Church of God. It is allegorized by some to set out the Churches leaving all for Christ. V. 16.
Learn here.
D. 1. VponUpon Gods call expressed, it is but just to leave dearest relations. It stirreth up souls to follow it where and when God will.
D. 2. Marriage-relations must leave fathers house to cohabit, much more between Christ and his Church.
D. 3. Where God guides, it is no danger to leave dearest relations and follow strangers.
D. 4. It is duty to take those blessings given into prayer, and use them well, and carry them where God would have them. V. 61.
2. Isaacs providentiall meeting with Rebekah. Wherein.
1. Is reported Isaacs motion from the place where he was resident. And Isaac came in comming from the well Lahai-roi, and he was sitting or dwelling in the land of the south. — And Isaac went thorough the wildernes by the well of vision, &c. Sept. And Isaac came from the well where on the Angel of life appeared. Cald.
1. His motion. He came toward them.
2. The place whence. From the well of him that liveth and seeth. which was the name given by Hagar when God discovered himself to her, when she fled from Sarah. Gen. 16.14.
3. The reason, he dwelt now in the land of the south. It is conceived at Beersheba, where Abraham dwelt with him, for thither the servant returned to his Master, & there Sarahs tent was; however it is conceived by some, that Abraham and Isaac had parted habitations, and that the Father dwelt at Hebron, and the son at Beersheba. No such thing is expressed, and it is most probable that they lived together, where the father as well as the son might consummate the marriage. V. 62.Ver. 62.
2. The end of that walk or motion. And Isaac went forth to pray in the field at the looking out of the evening — To exercise himself in the field toward the south or noontide. — To pray in the field in the evening. It seemeth this was the main end of his walking now, to meditate and converse with God in prayer by himself in some solitary place, the word carrieth both in it. This was Isaacs exercise in the evening.
3. The event while he was about this duty And he lifted up his eyes, and saw & behold the camells were comming. — He saw the camells coming. This God ordered to this servant. It is thought by some that he was praying about this matter, and that God sent them in at this time unto him. V. 63.Ver. 63.
Learn here.
D. 1. Motions of creatures are ordered by God somtimes to see special mercies. V. 62. So Simeon Luke. 2.27.
D. 2. It is sweet walking in solitary places to converse with God in meditation and prayer.
D. 3. Mercies somtimes are sent in to Gods servants when they are in communion with him. Ver. 63.
3. Rebekahs discovery of, and carriage unto Isaac.Ver. 64. Wherein.
1. The providentiall sight of him. And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and saw Isaac. And Rebecca looking up with the eyes saw Isaac. Sept. So God brought to her sight first him, who should be her husband. The reason of her knowing him to be Isaac, is in the next verse. The man had told her.
2. Her demeanour.
2. And she fell or lighted of the camell — She slipt of, Sept. — She bowed her self upon the camell. Cald. This was in reverence to the man, whom God had appointed her head. Shee came of from the beast to honour him.Ver. 65.
2. The reason of her comming down, the discovery made by the servant, made by her question and his answear. She said who is this mans? & the servant said, it is my Master. meaning Isaac.
3. Her further submission of her self, And she took a vail & covered herself. a cloak, a mantle or covering and clad herself Sept. This action signified both her modesty and subjection, for which vails were used. So she humbled herself to her head.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Where God moveth hearts to follow after mercy, he gives eyes in time to see it.
D. 2. The sight of mercy maketh souls stoop & come down to take it. V. 64.
D. 3. Creature-reasonings are the way somtimes to discover Gods mercies.
D. 4. Women moved by God, will expresse modesty and subjection to the heads appointed them by him. V. 65.
4. The servants relation of all his embassage and fruit of it unto Isaac.Ver. 66. And the servant declared unto Isaac all things that he had done, That is, all that God had done for him in the way, and what under God he had acted as to this busines of a wife for him which doubtles convinced him of Gods hand in all.
Learn from it.
D. Faithfulnes will teach men intrusted to give an account of all their actions under God V. 66.
5. Isaacs entertainment of Rebekah. wherein.
1. His acceptance of her. And Isaac brought her into the tent of Sarah his mother, — Isaac went into his mothers house. Sept. — Into the tent, and saw and behold her works were right, as the works of Sarah his mother. Cald. Humanity and ingenuity in entertainment is the first work.
2. The marriage of her, she was to him for a wife. This is a short account, but doubtles a solemne act, it was not done rashly nor foolishly, but with his Fathers approbation, and as the way of Gods people was in his Church at that time.
3. His performance of duty to her, and he loved her. Which comprehends all conjugall duties of marriage under Gods own expression.
4. His consolation in her, after mourning for his mother. And Isaac was comforted after his mother, that is after she was dead, — Concerning Sarah his mother having now got an help. Sept. — After his mother was dead Cald. Three years now his mother had bin dead, yet he keepeth a remembrance of her: some note it a fault, but the Spirit of God doth not so charge it, for doubtles it was not without hope but now when God had pointed out an help meet for him, it was a cause of reviving him. God gave a wife insteed of a mother.
Learn from it.
D. 1. Honorable and due reception is but due to a wife sent from God.
D. 2. Solemn taking of a wife as well as consent, is requisit for perfecting marriage.
D. 3. Conjugall love must follow in all marriages made by God.
D. 4. A wifes comfort may supply a mothers losse. So God makes up creature losses with creature revivings somtimes.