Genesis 20:13

So when God had me journey from my father's house, I said to Sarah, 'This is how you can show your loyalty to me: Wherever we go, say of me, "He is my brother."'"

Study Bible

So when God had me wander
The Hebrew word for "wander" is "תָּעָה" (ta'ah), which can mean to err, to go astray, or to wander. This term reflects Abraham's journey as one of faith and obedience, even when the path was uncertain. It underscores the idea that God sometimes leads His people into unfamiliar territories to fulfill His divine purposes. Abraham's wandering is not aimless but directed by God, illustrating the life of faith as a pilgrimage.

from my father’s house
This phrase refers to Abraham's departure from Ur of the Chaldeans, as commanded by God in Genesis 12:1. Leaving his father's house signifies a break from his past and a step into a new identity and destiny shaped by God's promises. It highlights the cost of discipleship and the call to trust in God's provision and guidance, even when it requires leaving behind the familiar and secure.

I said to her
This phrase introduces Abraham's conversation with Sarah, his wife. It reflects the patriarchal context of the time, where family decisions were often communicated through the male head. It also sets the stage for understanding the dynamics of their relationship and the challenges they faced in maintaining integrity and faithfulness amidst external pressures.

‘This is how you can show your loyalty to me
The word "loyalty" here is significant, as it implies faithfulness and commitment. In Hebrew, the concept of loyalty is often tied to "חֶסֶד" (chesed), which encompasses love, kindness, and covenant faithfulness. Abraham's request for Sarah's loyalty is a plea for her to support him in a difficult situation, reflecting the mutual trust and partnership expected in a covenant marriage.

Wherever we go
This phrase emphasizes the nomadic lifestyle of Abraham and Sarah, who were constantly on the move as they followed God's leading. It speaks to the transient nature of their earthly journey and the need for adaptability and resilience. Spiritually, it reminds believers that their ultimate home is not in this world, but in the eternal promises of God.

say of me, ‘He is my brother.’
This statement reveals Abraham's strategy to protect himself in foreign lands by presenting Sarah as his sister. Historically, this was a half-truth, as Sarah was indeed his half-sister (Genesis 20:12). However, it also reflects a lapse in faith, as Abraham resorts to deception out of fear. This action serves as a cautionary tale about the temptation to rely on human schemes rather than trusting fully in God's protection and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch who is speaking in this verse. He is recounting his journey and the agreement he made with his wife, Sarah, to protect themselves.

2. Sarah
Abraham's wife, who is asked to say that Abraham is her brother to protect him from potential harm due to her beauty.

3. God
The divine being who called Abraham to leave his father's house and wander, leading to the events described.

4. Gerar
The region where Abraham and Sarah are staying when this event takes place. It is ruled by King Abimelech.

5. Abimelech
The king of Gerar who takes Sarah into his household, believing her to be Abraham's sister.

Teaching Points

Faith and Fear
Abraham's actions reveal a tension between faith in God's promises and fear of human threats. Believers today can learn from this tension, recognizing the importance of trusting God even when circumstances seem threatening.

Integrity and Deception
The decision to deceive others about their relationship raises questions about integrity. Christians are called to live truthfully, trusting God to protect and provide.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Abraham's fear-driven actions, God's sovereignty is evident as He intervenes to protect Sarah and fulfill His promises. This reassures believers of God's control over their lives.

Marital Unity
The agreement between Abraham and Sarah highlights the importance of unity and mutual support in marriage, even in difficult situations.

Lessons from Repetition
The repetition of similar events in Abraham's life suggests that God uses recurring challenges to teach and refine His people. Believers can reflect on patterns in their own lives to discern God's lessons.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's request to Sarah reflect both his faith and his fear? How can we apply this understanding to our own struggles with faith and fear?

2. In what ways does the account of Abraham and Sarah in Gerar challenge us to consider the role of integrity in our lives? How can we ensure that our actions align with our faith?

3. How does God's intervention in this account demonstrate His sovereignty and faithfulness? Can you think of a time when you experienced God's protection in unexpected ways?

4. What can we learn from the unity between Abraham and Sarah in this situation? How can married couples today support each other in faith and decision-making?

5. Reflect on a recurring challenge in your life. How might God be using this pattern to teach you or grow your faith? What steps can you take to respond faithfully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:10-20
This earlier event in Egypt parallels the situation in Gerar, where Abraham also asked Sarah to say she was his sister. It highlights a recurring theme of fear and self-preservation in Abraham's journey.

Hebrews 11:8-9
These verses speak of Abraham's faith and obedience in leaving his homeland, providing a broader context for his life of wandering and reliance on God's promises.

1 Peter 3:6
This verse references Sarah's obedience to Abraham, offering a New Testament perspective on her actions and the dynamics of their relationship.