Genesis 20:1-18
Reflect
A friend asked me, “Why is it when men gain power, it usually results in a woman being sexually exploited?” We are only 20 chapters into Genesis, and we have already seen this pattern frequently.
In today’s passage, Sarah (an appealing 90-year-old) is on the receiving end of oppression.
For the first time in Scripture, the role of prophet is mentioned (v7). The prophet is often known as one that is forceful and critical. Rather than striking Abraham down for the repeat of his lie (Gen.12), God chooses to show grace to him, and then through him. Amid a desperate situation, God calls His newly appointed prophet to bring a message of hope instead of despair. Though undeserving, Abraham is called by God to end the obvious oppression of Sarah, and of the less obvious oppression of Abimelech, who wrongfully displays that men have the right to use women for their lustful pleasure.
The role of the prophet is to call people to not forget God’s life-giving desire for how we can truly live well with one another.
Apply
How are you actively involved in stopping the exploitation of the oppressed?
How are your actions bearing witness of the freedom there is in Christ?
Pastor Dan
Pray
- Pray for our Prime Minister and Premier, Mayor Sohi, your MP, your MLA, and any other government officials God brings to your mind.
- Pray for all our small group leaders.
- Pray for our Missions Ministry Assistant, Oleksandr Lushchyk.