Genesis 20:9

Then Abimelech called Abraham and asked, "What have you done to us? How have I sinned against you, that you have brought such tremendous guilt upon me and my kingdom? You have done things to me that should not be done."

Study Bible

Then Abimelech called Abraham
The name "Abimelech" is a title meaning "my father is king" in Hebrew, often used for Philistine kings. This reflects a position of authority and respect. Abimelech's calling of Abraham indicates a direct confrontation, a moment of accountability. Historically, this interaction underscores the importance of integrity and truthfulness in relationships, especially between leaders and those they govern.

and said, 'What have you done to us?
This phrase is a direct inquiry, reflecting Abimelech's bewilderment and distress. The Hebrew root for "done" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies action with intention. Abimelech's question suggests a breach of trust and a call for explanation. It highlights the moral and ethical expectations in human interactions, emphasizing the consequences of deceit.

How have I wronged you
The phrase "wronged you" comes from the Hebrew root (חָטָא, chata), meaning to miss the mark or sin. Abimelech is asserting his innocence, questioning any justification for Abraham's deception. This reflects a universal principle of justice and fairness, where one seeks to understand the cause of perceived injustice.

that you have brought such great sin upon me and my kingdom?
The term "great sin" (חֲטָאָה גְדוֹלָה, chata'ah gedolah) indicates a severe moral failing. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the actions of individuals, especially leaders, were believed to have communal repercussions. This phrase underscores the interconnectedness of personal actions and communal well-being, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

You have done things to me that should never be done
This statement is a moral indictment. The repetition of "done" (עָשָׂה, asah) emphasizes the gravity of Abraham's actions. The phrase "should never be done" reflects a universal moral code, suggesting that certain actions are inherently wrong. This highlights the timeless nature of ethical standards, rooted in the character of God, who is just and righteous.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abimelech
The king of Gerar who unknowingly took Sarah, Abraham's wife, into his household, believing her to be Abraham's sister.

2. Abraham
The patriarch who, out of fear for his life, misled Abimelech by claiming Sarah was his sister.

3. Sarah
Abraham's wife, who was taken by Abimelech due to Abraham's deception.

4. Gerar
The region where Abimelech ruled and where the events of Genesis 20 took place.

5. God's Intervention
God intervened by warning Abimelech in a dream, preventing him from sinning against Him by taking Sarah as his wife.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Deception
Deception can lead to unintended consequences and harm to others. Abraham's lie put Sarah and Abimelech in a precarious situation.

God's Sovereign Protection
God intervenes to protect His covenant and His people, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness even when we falter.

The Importance of Truthfulness
As followers of Christ, we are called to live truthfully, trusting God rather than resorting to deceit out of fear.

Learning from Past Mistakes
Abraham's repeated deception shows the importance of learning from past mistakes and growing in faith and trust in God.

God's Grace in Our Weakness
Despite Abraham's failings, God remained faithful to His promises, reminding us of His grace and mercy in our weaknesses.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's fear influence his decision to deceive Abimelech, and what can we learn about the impact of fear on our decision-making?

2. In what ways does God's intervention in Genesis 20:9 demonstrate His protection over His covenant people, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

3. How does the account of Abraham and Abimelech challenge us to reflect on our own truthfulness and integrity in our relationships?

4. What lessons can we draw from Abraham's repeated mistakes, and how can we apply these lessons to avoid similar pitfalls in our spiritual journey?

5. How does the grace shown to Abraham in this passage encourage us to rely on God's faithfulness, even when we fall short?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12
Abraham previously deceived Pharaoh in a similar manner, showing a pattern of fear and lack of trust in God's protection.

Exodus 20:16
The commandment against bearing false witness highlights the importance of truthfulness, which Abraham struggled with in this account.

Psalm 105:14-15
God's protection over His anointed, as seen in His intervention to protect Sarah and uphold His covenant with Abraham.

Proverbs 29:25
The fear of man as a snare, which is evident in Abraham's actions driven by fear rather than faith.

Hebrews 11:8-12
Despite his failings, Abraham is commended for his faith, reminding us of God's grace and the importance of faith in His promises.