Genesis 24:15

Before the servant had finished praying, Rebekah came out with her jar on her shoulder. She was the daughter of Bethuel son of Milcah, the wife of Abraham's brother Nahor.

Study Bible

Before the servant had finished praying
This phrase highlights the immediacy of God's response to prayer, emphasizing divine providence and the importance of prayer in seeking God's guidance. The servant's prayer was specific, showing faith and reliance on God. This reflects the biblical principle that God hears and answers prayers, as seen in other scriptures like Daniel 9:20-23, where God responds to Daniel's prayer while he is still speaking.

Rebekah came out with her jar on her shoulder
Rebekah's introduction is significant as she becomes a key figure in the Abrahamic lineage. Her action of carrying a jar on her shoulder is culturally and historically accurate, reflecting the customs of women in ancient Near Eastern societies who often fetched water for their households. This act of service and hospitality foreshadows her suitability as Isaac's wife. The imagery of water and wells is recurrent in the Bible, symbolizing life and sustenance, as seen in John 4:7-14 with Jesus and the Samaritan woman.

She was the daughter of Bethuel son of Milcah
This genealogical detail establishes Rebekah's lineage, connecting her to Abraham's family. Bethuel's mention ties Rebekah to the broader narrative of God's covenant with Abraham's descendants. The importance of family lineage in biblical times is underscored here, as it was crucial for maintaining the purity of the covenant line. This connection is reminiscent of the genealogies in Matthew 1 and Luke 3, which trace Jesus' lineage.

the wife of Abraham’s brother Nahor
This phrase situates Rebekah within the extended family of Abraham, highlighting the practice of endogamy, or marrying within one's kin, which was common in ancient times to preserve family ties and inheritance. Nahor's mention reinforces the interconnectedness of the patriarchal family and God's unfolding plan through them. This familial connection is significant in the context of God's promises to Abraham, as seen in Genesis 12:1-3, where God promises to bless all nations through Abraham's offspring.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A key figure in this passage, Rebekah is introduced as the daughter of Bethuel. She becomes the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau, playing a significant role in the lineage of the Israelites.

2. Bethuel
Rebekah's father, mentioned here to establish her lineage. He is the son of Milcah and Nahor, making Rebekah a relative of Abraham's family.

3. Milcah
The wife of Nahor and mother of Bethuel. Her mention highlights the familial connections within Abraham's extended family.

4. Nahor
Abraham's brother, establishing the familial ties that are significant in the context of the covenant promises given to Abraham.

5. The Servant's Prayer
The event of the servant praying for guidance in finding a wife for Isaac, which is immediately answered by Rebekah's appearance, demonstrating God's providence and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

God's Providence in Answered Prayer
The immediate answer to the servant's prayer demonstrates God's active involvement in the lives of His people. Believers can trust that God hears and responds to their prayers according to His will.

The Importance of Family and Lineage
The detailed mention of Rebekah's family background underscores the significance of family and lineage in God's covenant promises. It reminds believers of the importance of their spiritual heritage and the role of family in God's plan.

Faithful Service and Obedience
The servant's faithfulness in seeking God's guidance and his obedience to Abraham's instructions serve as a model for believers in their own service to God and others.

Divine Timing and Patience
The timing of Rebekah's arrival, even before the servant finished praying, illustrates God's perfect timing. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing and remain patient as they wait for His plans to unfold.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the immediate answer to the servant's prayer in Genesis 24:15 encourage you in your own prayer life?

2. In what ways does understanding Rebekah's family background enhance your appreciation of God's covenant promises?

3. How can the servant's example of faithful service and reliance on prayer inspire you in your daily walk with God?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to trust in God's timing, as demonstrated in this passage?

5. How can you apply the principles of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His providence in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22:20-23
This passage provides background on Rebekah's family, connecting her to Abraham's lineage and highlighting the importance of family ties in God's covenant plan.

Proverbs 3:5-6
The servant's reliance on prayer and God's guidance in finding Rebekah parallels the call to trust in the Lord with all one's heart and acknowledge Him in all ways.

James 5:16
The immediate answer to the servant's prayer exemplifies the power of a righteous person's prayer, as emphasized in this New Testament passage.