How does Genesis 26:21 connect to Jesus' teachings on peacemaking in Matthew 5:9? Setting the Scene “You will keep in perfect peace the mind that is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3) Genesis 26:21—“Then they dug another well and quarreled over it as well, so he named it Sitnah.” Matthew 5:9—“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” What Happens at Sitnah • Isaac’s servants strike water in Philistine territory. • Local herdsmen immediately argue that the spring is theirs. • Instead of fighting, Isaac relinquishes the well, names it Sitnah (“hostility/accusation”), and moves on. How the Episode Foreshadows Matthew 5:9 • Peacemaking over Possessing – Isaac had every legal and covenantal claim to the well (Genesis 26:3–5), yet he set aside his rights to preserve peace. – Jesus blesses this very disposition: valuing reconciliation above personal gain. • Acted Sons vs. Called Sons – Isaac behaves like a true son of Abraham by trusting God to provide another well (26:22). – Jesus declares that those who imitate this spirit will be “called sons of God,” publicly recognized as belonging to the Father. • Faith-Fueled Peace – Isaac’s surrender rests on confidence that the LORD will “make room” (Rehoboth) for him. – Christ links peacemaking to our identity: only those secure in the Father’s provision can afford to yield. Scripture Echoes • Romans 12:18—“If it is possible…live at peace with everyone.” • Proverbs 16:7—“When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies live at peace with him.” • James 3:17—“Wisdom from above is…peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy…” Practical Takeaways • Release the “well” that breeds strife; God has another waiting. • Yielding for peace is not weakness; it is the strength of one who trusts God’s promises. • Peacemaking is a family trait of the household of God; when we live it out, heaven’s lineage becomes visible on earth. From Sitnah to Rehoboth Isaac’s journey moves from hostility to spaciousness; Jesus points to the same path. Peacemakers may lose a well today, but they inherit the Father’s open fields tomorrow. |
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