Genesis 20:6

Then God said to Abimelech in the dream, "Yes, I know that you did this with a clear conscience, and so I have kept you from sinning against Me. That is why I did not let you touch her.

Study Bible

Then God said to him in the dream
This phrase highlights the direct communication between God and Abimelech, the king of Gerar. In the ancient Near Eastern context, dreams were often considered a medium through which the divine communicated with humans. The Hebrew word for "dream" is "ḥalôm," which signifies a vision or revelation. This underscores the personal and intimate nature of God's intervention, emphasizing His sovereignty and willingness to guide even those outside the covenant community.

Yes, I know that you did this with a clear conscience
The phrase "clear conscience" is significant in understanding God's justice and mercy. The Hebrew word for "conscience" is not directly used here, but the concept is conveyed through the idea of integrity or innocence. God acknowledges Abimelech's integrity, showing that He is a just God who recognizes the intentions of the heart. This reflects the biblical principle that God judges not only actions but also the motives behind them, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:7, where God looks at the heart.

and so I have kept you from sinning against Me
Here, God's providential care is evident. The phrase "kept you from sinning" indicates divine intervention. The Hebrew root "ḥāṭā'" for "sinning" means to miss the mark, suggesting that sin is a deviation from God's standard. God's active role in preventing Abimelech from sinning highlights His grace and the importance of His moral law. It also illustrates the biblical truth that God can restrain evil and guide individuals toward righteousness.

That is why I did not let you touch her
The phrase "did not let you touch her" refers to God's protective action over Sarah, Abraham's wife. The Hebrew word "nāgaʿ" for "touch" implies more than physical contact; it suggests a violation or defilement. This protection underscores the sanctity of marriage and God's covenant promises to Abraham and Sarah. It also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving His plans and purposes, even when human actions threaten to derail them.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
- A patriarch of the faith, Abraham is central to this account. He is traveling through the region and encounters Abimelech.

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

3. Sarah
- Abraham's wife, who is presented as his sister, leading to the events of this chapter.

4. Gerar
- The region where Abimelech rules and where the events of this chapter take place.

5. God
- The divine being who intervenes in the situation by speaking to Abimelech in a dream.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Protection
God intervenes to protect His covenant and His people, demonstrating His sovereignty over human affairs. This reassures believers of God's active role in their lives.

Integrity and Accountability
Abimelech's response to God's warning shows the importance of integrity and accountability. Even when unaware, he seeks to rectify the situation, teaching us to be responsive to God's guidance.

The Importance of Truthfulness
Abraham's deception, though intended for protection, leads to complications. This highlights the importance of truthfulness and trust in God's protection rather than relying on deceit.

God's Communication with Humanity
God's communication with Abimelech through a dream illustrates that God can reach out to anyone, regardless of their relationship with Him, to fulfill His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's intervention in Genesis 20:6 demonstrate His sovereignty and protection over His people? Can you think of other biblical examples where God intervenes to protect His covenant?

2. In what ways does Abimelech's response to God's warning serve as a model for integrity and accountability in our own lives?

3. How does the situation in Genesis 20:6 compare to the earlier event in Genesis 12:10-20? What lessons can we learn about the consequences of deceit?

4. How can we apply the principle of truthfulness in our daily interactions, especially when faced with fear or uncertainty?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt God communicated with you in an unexpected way. How did that experience shape your understanding of His presence and guidance in your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:10-20
This earlier event in Abraham's life mirrors the situation in Genesis 20, where Abraham also presents Sarah as his sister in Egypt, leading to divine intervention.

Psalm 105:14-15
This passage speaks of God's protection over His anointed ones, which can be seen in His intervention to protect Sarah and maintain His covenant with Abraham.

Proverbs 21:1
This verse highlights God's sovereignty over the hearts of kings, as seen in His ability to influence Abimelech's actions.