Topical Encyclopedia Abimelech is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often associated with Philistine kings. One of the most notable accounts involving a king named Abimelech is found in the narrative of Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 20. This account provides a profound example of integrity, as demonstrated by Abimelech, the king of Gerar.Genesis 20:1-18 · Abimelech and Abraham In Genesis 20, Abraham journeys to the region of the Negev and settles between Kadesh and Shur. While residing in Gerar, Abraham introduces his wife Sarah as his sister, fearing for his life due to her beauty. Consequently, Abimelech, the king of Gerar, sends for Sarah and takes her into his palace. However, God intervenes by appearing to Abimelech in a dream, warning him that he is as good as dead because the woman he has taken is married. Abimelech's response to God's warning is a testament to his integrity. He pleads his innocence, stating, "Lord, will You destroy a nation even though it is innocent? Did not Abraham tell me, ‘She is my sister,’ and did not she herself say, ‘He is my brother’? I have done this with a clear conscience and clean hands" (Genesis 20:4-5). God acknowledges Abimelech's integrity, saying, "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" (Genesis 20:6). Abimelech's actions following the dream further illustrate his integrity. He promptly returns Sarah to Abraham and provides him with sheep, cattle, and servants, along with a thousand pieces of silver as a sign of Sarah's vindication. Abimelech's behavior reflects a commitment to righteousness and justice, even when he had been misled. Integrity in Leadership Abimelech's account highlights the importance of integrity in leadership. Despite being deceived, Abimelech's immediate response to rectify the situation demonstrates a commitment to doing what is right in the eyes of God. His willingness to listen to God's warning and act accordingly underscores the value of integrity as a guiding principle for leaders. Abimelech and Isaac · Genesis 26:1-33 Another account involving a king named Abimelech occurs in Genesis 26, where Isaac, like his father Abraham, sojourns in Gerar during a famine. Isaac also claims that his wife Rebekah is his sister, fearing for his life. When Abimelech observes Isaac caressing Rebekah, he confronts him, saying, "What is this you have done to us? One of the people could easily have slept with your wife, and you would have brought guilt upon us" (Genesis 26:10). Abimelech's reaction once again reflects his integrity. He issues a decree to all his people, stating, "Whoever harms this man or his wife shall surely be put to death" (Genesis 26:11). This protective measure demonstrates Abimelech's commitment to justice and the well-being of those under his rule. Conclusion The accounts of Abimelech in Genesis 20 and 26 provide valuable insights into the nature of integrity. Abimelech's actions, characterized by honesty, justice, and a willingness to correct wrongs, serve as enduring examples of integrity in leadership. His account encourages believers to uphold integrity in their own lives, trusting in God's guidance and protection. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 26:9-11And Abimelech called Isaac, and said, Behold, of a surety she is your wife; and how said you, She is my sister? And Isaac said to him, Because I said, Lest I die for her. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter xx Doubtful Fragments on the Pentateuch. Sovereignty and Human Responsibility On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... The Sovereignty of God in Operation Discussion of the Subject of Permission From Abraham to Egypt. Against Rash and Vain Swearing. Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... Resources What does the Bible say about Christian character? | GotQuestions.orgChristian Character ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What are the most famous/important questions in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Integrity: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Integrity: Daniel, in his Abstemiousness (I. E. Abstinent) Integrity: Daniel, in Maintaining Uprightness of Character and Consistent Devoutness Integrity: David, in his Conduct While in Refuge With the Philistines Integrity: David, in Preventing Foraging by his Insurgent Forces Integrity: David, in Self-Reproach for the Cutting of Saul's Robe Integrity: General Scriptures Concerning Integrity: Jacob, in the Care of Laban's Property Integrity: Jacob's Sons, when Accused by Joseph of Robbery Integrity: Joab, when Ordered by David to Count the Military Forces of Israel Integrity: Joseph, a Counselor Integrity: Joseph, in Resisting Potiphar's Wife Integrity: Joseph, Innocent of the Charge Which Caused Him to be Cast Into the Dungeon Integrity: Joseph, the Husband of Mary, in not Jealously Accusing Her of Immorality Integrity: Moses, in Taking Nothing from the Israelites in Consideration of his Services Integrity: Nathanael, in Whom Was No Guile Integrity: Nehemiah, Reforming the Civil Service, and Receiving No Compensation for his own Services Integrity: Paul and Barnabas, when the People of Lystra Desired to Deify Them Integrity: Peter, when offered Money by Simon Magus Integrity: Pharaoh, when he Learned That Sarah Was Abraham's Wife Integrity: Samuel, in Exacting Nothing from the People on Account of his Services Integrity: The Egyptian Midwives when Commanded to Destroy the Newborn Babies of the Israelites Integrity: The Rechabites, in Keeping the Nazarite Vows Integrity: Workmen, Who Repaired the Temple Integrity: Zacchaeus, in the Administration of his Wealth Related Terms Incorruptibility (7 Occurrences) |
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