Topical Bible: Condescension of God: Warns Abimelech in a Dream

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The concept of God's condescension refers to His gracious willingness to engage with humanity in ways that are understandable and accessible to human beings. This divine attribute is vividly illustrated in the biblical account of God's interaction with Abimelech, king of Gerar, as recorded in Genesis 20.

Biblical Context

In Genesis 20, Abraham and Sarah journey to Gerar, where Abraham, fearing for his life, introduces Sarah as his sister. Abimelech, the king of Gerar, takes Sarah into his household, unaware of her marriage to Abraham. This act, though done in ignorance, places Abimelech in a precarious position, as Sarah is the wife of God's chosen servant, Abraham.

Divine Intervention

God's condescension is demonstrated through His direct intervention in the situation. Rather than allowing Abimelech to unknowingly sin against Him, God warns the king in a dream. Genesis 20:3 states, "But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night and said to him, 'You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken, for she is a married woman.'"

This divine warning highlights God's justice and mercy. While God upholds His moral standards, He also provides Abimelech with the opportunity to rectify the situation before any sin is committed. This act of condescension underscores God's desire for righteousness and His willingness to guide even those outside the covenant community.

Abimelech's Response

Abimelech's response to God's warning is one of immediate obedience and fear of the Lord. He pleads his innocence, explaining that he acted with a clear conscience, as he was misled by Abraham's claim. God acknowledges Abimelech's integrity, saying in Genesis 20:6 , "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."

God's interaction with Abimelech demonstrates His omniscience and His active role in preventing sin. It also reveals His willingness to communicate with those who are not part of His chosen people, emphasizing His sovereignty over all nations and His concern for moral integrity.

Theological Implications

The account of God's warning to Abimelech in a dream serves as a profound example of divine condescension. It illustrates God's readiness to engage with humanity in a personal and direct manner, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled while providing individuals with the opportunity to align themselves with His will.

This narrative also reinforces the biblical principle that God is not limited by human boundaries or affiliations. His interactions with Abimelech demonstrate that His moral law is universal, and His grace extends beyond the confines of the covenant community. Through His condescension, God reveals His character as both just and merciful, guiding individuals toward righteousness and away from sin.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 20:3-7
But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, you are but a dead man, for the woman which you have taken; for she is a man's wife.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

part ii
... A Christian ought to love God, and his neighbour, the image of God, so fervidly ... I
count all these earthly things as dross, and worldly pleasures as a dream. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm