Genesis 24

Genesis 24:1

Rebekah Is Born

The chapter concludes with the mention of the sons of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. The reason is that from Bethuel, the son of Nahor, Rebekah was born, the future wife of Isaac. Although the marriage only takes place in Genesis 24, Rebekah is mentioned here anyway, because we see here on the basis of which that marriage can be made. That basis is the death and resurrection of Isaac. Thus the church, the bride of the Lamb, came into existence on the basis of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

Genesis 24:2

Rebekah Is Born

The chapter concludes with the mention of the sons of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. The reason is that from Bethuel, the son of Nahor, Rebekah was born, the future wife of Isaac. Although the marriage only takes place in Genesis 24, Rebekah is mentioned here anyway, because we see here on the basis of which that marriage can be made. That basis is the death and resurrection of Isaac. Thus the church, the bride of the Lamb, came into existence on the basis of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

Genesis 24:3

Rebekah Is Born

The chapter concludes with the mention of the sons of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. The reason is that from Bethuel, the son of Nahor, Rebekah was born, the future wife of Isaac. Although the marriage only takes place in Genesis 24, Rebekah is mentioned here anyway, because we see here on the basis of which that marriage can be made. That basis is the death and resurrection of Isaac. Thus the church, the bride of the Lamb, came into existence on the basis of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

Genesis 24:4

Rebekah Is Born

The chapter concludes with the mention of the sons of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. The reason is that from Bethuel, the son of Nahor, Rebekah was born, the future wife of Isaac. Although the marriage only takes place in Genesis 24, Rebekah is mentioned here anyway, because we see here on the basis of which that marriage can be made. That basis is the death and resurrection of Isaac. Thus the church, the bride of the Lamb, came into existence on the basis of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

Genesis 24:5

Rebekah Is Born

The chapter concludes with the mention of the sons of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. The reason is that from Bethuel, the son of Nahor, Rebekah was born, the future wife of Isaac. Although the marriage only takes place in Genesis 24, Rebekah is mentioned here anyway, because we see here on the basis of which that marriage can be made. That basis is the death and resurrection of Isaac. Thus the church, the bride of the Lamb, came into existence on the basis of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

Genesis 24:7

The Death of Sarah

Before in the next chapter Isaac gets his wife Rebekah, the death of Sarah is mentioned first. In typology this is an important event. For we see here in the picture that first Israel – of which Sarah is a picture – is set aside, and that then the Lord Jesus – of whom Isaac is a picture – gets His bride, the church – of which Rebekah is a picture.

Sarah is the only woman whose age is mentioned in God’s Word. Her days are numbered by God. God also knows her faith. It seems as if she stood in the shadow of Abraham, but in Hebrews 11 there is also talk of her faith (Hebrews 11:11). She did not rely on Abraham’s faith, like Lot. She travelled the whole pilgrimage with Abraham and for sixty-two years she was a stranger and a sojourner. Together they have reached the goal, also in faithfulness to each other. In all this she is an example to the believing women now (1 Peter 3:5-6).

What she has meant to Abraham is shown by his reaction after she has died. He mourns and weeps for her and spares no effort to give her a worthy funeral and a worthy burial site. Here we find for the first time tears with Abraham. We do not read about this when he leaves Ur of the Chaldeans.

The natural feelings are not set aside by faith. Mourning and sorrow are not wrong, they have their place. There is a great distinction with those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). The believer has sorrow when a beloved fellow believer falls asleep, but is not desperate. He will see his beloved again.

Genesis 24:8

The Death of Sarah

Before in the next chapter Isaac gets his wife Rebekah, the death of Sarah is mentioned first. In typology this is an important event. For we see here in the picture that first Israel – of which Sarah is a picture – is set aside, and that then the Lord Jesus – of whom Isaac is a picture – gets His bride, the church – of which Rebekah is a picture.

Sarah is the only woman whose age is mentioned in God’s Word. Her days are numbered by God. God also knows her faith. It seems as if she stood in the shadow of Abraham, but in Hebrews 11 there is also talk of her faith (Hebrews 11:11). She did not rely on Abraham’s faith, like Lot. She travelled the whole pilgrimage with Abraham and for sixty-two years she was a stranger and a sojourner. Together they have reached the goal, also in faithfulness to each other. In all this she is an example to the believing women now (1 Peter 3:5-6).

What she has meant to Abraham is shown by his reaction after she has died. He mourns and weeps for her and spares no effort to give her a worthy funeral and a worthy burial site. Here we find for the first time tears with Abraham. We do not read about this when he leaves Ur of the Chaldeans.

The natural feelings are not set aside by faith. Mourning and sorrow are not wrong, they have their place. There is a great distinction with those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). The believer has sorrow when a beloved fellow believer falls asleep, but is not desperate. He will see his beloved again.

Genesis 24:9

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:10

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:11

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:12

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:13

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:14

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:15

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:16

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:17

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:18

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:19

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:20

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:21

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:22

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:23

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:24

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:25

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:26

A Burial Site and a Burial

After mourning and weeping, “Abraham rose”. He doesn’t continue mourning. It is important not to be swallowed by grief, but after mourning and weeping to see what is needed then. There will come a time when we have to rise again. One cannot continue mourning. This is only possible if there is faith in the resurrection, a faith based on the work of Christ on the cross and His resurrection. There is a resurrection of the believers because He is risen (1 Corinthians 15:20-21).

Abraham knows what to do. He wants to buy a burial site. For that he goes to the owners of the land. He buys the burial site for four hundred shekels of silver, which is a huge amount. The price of a slave is twenty shekels of silver. In the time of Jeremiah an entire field is bought for seventeen shekels of silver. So much is it worth it to him that Sarah is buried there. He pays that price without negotiating.

He boldly confesses to them that he is with them as a stranger (Hebrews 11:13) and therefore has no right to any part of the land. The reaction of the sons of Heth shows the great respect they have for him and that during his stay he commanded among them by his behavior. A consistent attitude as a believer commands respect, unlike Lot, who was despised (cf. Genesis 23:6; Genesis 19:9).

The description of the purchase of the burial site for Sarah shows how much the place of burial matters. Abraham buried her in view of the resurrection. With the purchase of the burial site Abraham has acquired the only piece of Canaan he can call his property. With this purchase he confirms his belief in the resurrection. He knows that Sarah has received life from God. Therefore he assures himself of the rights at the place where the body of his beloved is laid until she will rise to receive the promised blessing.

Abraham does not bury ‘the remains’, but buries “my dead” (Genesis 23:13), “his wife Sarah” (Genesis 23:19). When the Lord Jesus is buried, it does not say that His “remains” are buried, but that “Jesus” is placed in the tomb (John 19:40; 42). The body is the Person.

Israel is now a dead people (Ezekiel 37:1-11). But God has buried the people with care. He knows exactly where they are. He bought the field, that is the world. Abraham paid the full price. God also paid the full price: the blood of His Son.

It is the first time that Scripture mentions a burial. Nowhere we find a commandment to bury, nor do we find a prohibition to burn. By what we know from Scripture, it is clear that burial is according to God’s thoughts. We must ask ourselves what the point is. Jacob and Joseph want to be buried in the promised land. God Himself has buried Moses. The Lord Jesus is buried in a new tomb.

Burial is related to resurrection. This is shown by the long chapter about the resurrection in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 15. Paul begins that chapter making again known to the Corinthians what the gospel means. He once has already done this orally, when he came to the Corinthians. They accepted it then and they have been saved as a result. As he writes them his letter, he tells them again what the gospel is about: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Here we read twice the expression “according to the Scriptures”. This divides the sentence into two parts. We then see that in the second part of the sentence ‘buried’ and ‘raised’ belong together. This is of great significance. Paul will return to this later in that chapter.

It is clear that not death and burial belong together, but burial and resurrection. Burying is sowing, and sowing is done with a view to a harvest. Burning always has to do with judgment (Joshua 7:25; Leviticus 21:9).

Abraham pays a high price. He does not want to get anything from the inhabitants of the country. Earlier he refused an offer to get something (Genesis 14:23). In the negotiations about the price he works correctly. Abraham is credible, also in his business. He pays the price among witnesses. People judge our religion in connection with our carefulness in earthly matters (2 Corinthians 8:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:12).

The purchase of the field in Machpelah and the cave that is in it as a burial site for Sarah testifies to his unshakeable faith that Canaan will become his property, according to God’s promise. God’s promises do not end with death. With this purchase he takes, as it were, an advance on the possession of the whole. Later he himself also (Genesis 25:10), and Isaac and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah will be buried there (Genesis 49:29-31; Genesis 50:13). They and all other Old Testament believers died without receiving what was promised, because God would not them to be made perfect apart from the New Testament believers (Hebrews 11:39-40).

Genesis 24:28

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:29

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:30

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:31

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:32

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:33

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:34

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:35

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:36

Introduction

In this chapter we have a striking picture of the work of the triune God for obtaining a bride for the Son. The initiative comes from the Father (Genesis 24:1-9), the servant is a picture of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 24:10-61), the bride is a picture of the church which is joined to the Lord Jesus (Genesis 24:62-67).

Also practically there is much in this chapter that can help and encourage us in our life with the Lord. As in the previous chapter, we do not hear a voice of God with a command. We don’t see any miracles either. We become partakers of considerations of believers who seek the way of the Lord and we see how the Lord guides.

The lesson is not that we get an answer to our prayers as quickly as the servant and also the answer we want. The lesson is that we may consider and in confidence ask the Lord for His guidance and that He gives it.

A Wife for Isaac

Abraham states that the wife for his son may not come from the nations, but from his own family. It must be someone who suits him. The application for today is that a believer may not enter into a relationship with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). He may only marry ‘in the Lord’ (1 Corinthians 7:39), that is to say, someone who also belongs to the Lord Jesus.

The bride must be taken from the country where Abraham comes from. Isaac remains in the land of promise. Thus the Lord Jesus remains in heaven, while the Holy Spirit prepares the church to meet her Bridegroom.

Finding such a wife requires effort. There are many factors to take into account. If we look at these factors humanly, it is an impossible task. However, if we count on the guidance of the Lord, it is a path of faith that we may walk in confidence of a good outcome.

Genesis 24:37

The Prayer of the Servant

The servant sets out “with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand” (cf. Genesis 24:36). For all these good things ten camels are needed, so it is not small what he takes with him. In the same way, today the Holy Spirit wants to show all the glories of the Father and the Son to the church, to us, to persuade us to go with Him through the wilderness, on our way to the Lord Jesus. Those precious things are not few.

In everything the servant does, we see full dependence on God. This is an example for us to surrender our whole lives to His guidance (Proverbs 3:6). It is important – and we must pray for this – that God shows us His will and guidance and that we also have an eye for it (Psalms 32:8; Psalms 27:11).

The place where the servant prays is near a well of water. There he expects the answer to his prayer. Water is a picture of the Word of God (Ephesians 5:26). The Holy Spirit will never do anything outside the Word of God. The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl has characteristics which testify that she belongs to Abraham’s family, that is to say that he can see from her behavior the characteristics of Godly life, the characteristics of a believer. “A prudent wife is from the LORD” (Proverbs 19:14b).

The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl is doing more than he asks. He will ask her if she has water for him. If she consents and offers to draw water for the camels also, it is the girl the LORD has appointed for the son of his lord. The true believer is characterized by the fact that, without any request to that effect, he does more than is asked of him.

Genesis 24:38

The Prayer of the Servant

The servant sets out “with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand” (cf. Genesis 24:36). For all these good things ten camels are needed, so it is not small what he takes with him. In the same way, today the Holy Spirit wants to show all the glories of the Father and the Son to the church, to us, to persuade us to go with Him through the wilderness, on our way to the Lord Jesus. Those precious things are not few.

In everything the servant does, we see full dependence on God. This is an example for us to surrender our whole lives to His guidance (Proverbs 3:6). It is important – and we must pray for this – that God shows us His will and guidance and that we also have an eye for it (Psalms 32:8; Psalms 27:11).

The place where the servant prays is near a well of water. There he expects the answer to his prayer. Water is a picture of the Word of God (Ephesians 5:26). The Holy Spirit will never do anything outside the Word of God. The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl has characteristics which testify that she belongs to Abraham’s family, that is to say that he can see from her behavior the characteristics of Godly life, the characteristics of a believer. “A prudent wife is from the LORD” (Proverbs 19:14b).

The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl is doing more than he asks. He will ask her if she has water for him. If she consents and offers to draw water for the camels also, it is the girl the LORD has appointed for the son of his lord. The true believer is characterized by the fact that, without any request to that effect, he does more than is asked of him.

Genesis 24:39

The Prayer of the Servant

The servant sets out “with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand” (cf. Genesis 24:36). For all these good things ten camels are needed, so it is not small what he takes with him. In the same way, today the Holy Spirit wants to show all the glories of the Father and the Son to the church, to us, to persuade us to go with Him through the wilderness, on our way to the Lord Jesus. Those precious things are not few.

In everything the servant does, we see full dependence on God. This is an example for us to surrender our whole lives to His guidance (Proverbs 3:6). It is important – and we must pray for this – that God shows us His will and guidance and that we also have an eye for it (Psalms 32:8; Psalms 27:11).

The place where the servant prays is near a well of water. There he expects the answer to his prayer. Water is a picture of the Word of God (Ephesians 5:26). The Holy Spirit will never do anything outside the Word of God. The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl has characteristics which testify that she belongs to Abraham’s family, that is to say that he can see from her behavior the characteristics of Godly life, the characteristics of a believer. “A prudent wife is from the LORD” (Proverbs 19:14b).

The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl is doing more than he asks. He will ask her if she has water for him. If she consents and offers to draw water for the camels also, it is the girl the LORD has appointed for the son of his lord. The true believer is characterized by the fact that, without any request to that effect, he does more than is asked of him.

Genesis 24:40

The Prayer of the Servant

The servant sets out “with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand” (cf. Genesis 24:36). For all these good things ten camels are needed, so it is not small what he takes with him. In the same way, today the Holy Spirit wants to show all the glories of the Father and the Son to the church, to us, to persuade us to go with Him through the wilderness, on our way to the Lord Jesus. Those precious things are not few.

In everything the servant does, we see full dependence on God. This is an example for us to surrender our whole lives to His guidance (Proverbs 3:6). It is important – and we must pray for this – that God shows us His will and guidance and that we also have an eye for it (Psalms 32:8; Psalms 27:11).

The place where the servant prays is near a well of water. There he expects the answer to his prayer. Water is a picture of the Word of God (Ephesians 5:26). The Holy Spirit will never do anything outside the Word of God. The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl has characteristics which testify that she belongs to Abraham’s family, that is to say that he can see from her behavior the characteristics of Godly life, the characteristics of a believer. “A prudent wife is from the LORD” (Proverbs 19:14b).

The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl is doing more than he asks. He will ask her if she has water for him. If she consents and offers to draw water for the camels also, it is the girl the LORD has appointed for the son of his lord. The true believer is characterized by the fact that, without any request to that effect, he does more than is asked of him.

Genesis 24:41

The Prayer of the Servant

The servant sets out “with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand” (cf. Genesis 24:36). For all these good things ten camels are needed, so it is not small what he takes with him. In the same way, today the Holy Spirit wants to show all the glories of the Father and the Son to the church, to us, to persuade us to go with Him through the wilderness, on our way to the Lord Jesus. Those precious things are not few.

In everything the servant does, we see full dependence on God. This is an example for us to surrender our whole lives to His guidance (Proverbs 3:6). It is important – and we must pray for this – that God shows us His will and guidance and that we also have an eye for it (Psalms 32:8; Psalms 27:11).

The place where the servant prays is near a well of water. There he expects the answer to his prayer. Water is a picture of the Word of God (Ephesians 5:26). The Holy Spirit will never do anything outside the Word of God. The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl has characteristics which testify that she belongs to Abraham’s family, that is to say that he can see from her behavior the characteristics of Godly life, the characteristics of a believer. “A prudent wife is from the LORD” (Proverbs 19:14b).

The servant asks the LORD to show him that the girl is doing more than he asks. He will ask her if she has water for him. If she consents and offers to draw water for the camels also, it is the girl the LORD has appointed for the son of his lord. The true believer is characterized by the fact that, without any request to that effect, he does more than is asked of him.

Genesis 24:42

The Servant Meets Rebekah

The LORD answers the prayer of the servant. He is done according to his faith. His prayer is answered quickly, even before he has finished speaking. The first one to come to draw water is the girl he prayed for. She meets his prayer. That she also thinks of the camels, also proves that she is a righteous one (Proverbs 12:10a).

Rebekah is not only handsome and pure, but she is also helpful and diligent. She shows her desire to refresh others when they ask for it. As said, she does more than she has been asked to do. The servant has asked for “a little water”, but she lets him drink until he has enough. After that she also draws for “your camels”. That is a huge job, because camels drink enormous amounts of water and it concerns ten camels (Genesis 24:10). She knows what she asks and does what she wants to do. This is how the Lord Jesus sees His church. How good it is, when we, as members of His church, are committed to what serves to refresh others.

Genesis 24:43

The Servant Meets Rebekah

The LORD answers the prayer of the servant. He is done according to his faith. His prayer is answered quickly, even before he has finished speaking. The first one to come to draw water is the girl he prayed for. She meets his prayer. That she also thinks of the camels, also proves that she is a righteous one (Proverbs 12:10a).

Rebekah is not only handsome and pure, but she is also helpful and diligent. She shows her desire to refresh others when they ask for it. As said, she does more than she has been asked to do. The servant has asked for “a little water”, but she lets him drink until he has enough. After that she also draws for “your camels”. That is a huge job, because camels drink enormous amounts of water and it concerns ten camels (Genesis 24:10). She knows what she asks and does what she wants to do. This is how the Lord Jesus sees His church. How good it is, when we, as members of His church, are committed to what serves to refresh others.

Genesis 24:44

The Servant Meets Rebekah

The LORD answers the prayer of the servant. He is done according to his faith. His prayer is answered quickly, even before he has finished speaking. The first one to come to draw water is the girl he prayed for. She meets his prayer. That she also thinks of the camels, also proves that she is a righteous one (Proverbs 12:10a).

Rebekah is not only handsome and pure, but she is also helpful and diligent. She shows her desire to refresh others when they ask for it. As said, she does more than she has been asked to do. The servant has asked for “a little water”, but she lets him drink until he has enough. After that she also draws for “your camels”. That is a huge job, because camels drink enormous amounts of water and it concerns ten camels (Genesis 24:10). She knows what she asks and does what she wants to do. This is how the Lord Jesus sees His church. How good it is, when we, as members of His church, are committed to what serves to refresh others.

Genesis 24:45

The Servant Meets Rebekah

The LORD answers the prayer of the servant. He is done according to his faith. His prayer is answered quickly, even before he has finished speaking. The first one to come to draw water is the girl he prayed for. She meets his prayer. That she also thinks of the camels, also proves that she is a righteous one (Proverbs 12:10a).

Rebekah is not only handsome and pure, but she is also helpful and diligent. She shows her desire to refresh others when they ask for it. As said, she does more than she has been asked to do. The servant has asked for “a little water”, but she lets him drink until he has enough. After that she also draws for “your camels”. That is a huge job, because camels drink enormous amounts of water and it concerns ten camels (Genesis 24:10). She knows what she asks and does what she wants to do. This is how the Lord Jesus sees His church. How good it is, when we, as members of His church, are committed to what serves to refresh others.

Genesis 24:46

The Servant Meets Rebekah

The LORD answers the prayer of the servant. He is done according to his faith. His prayer is answered quickly, even before he has finished speaking. The first one to come to draw water is the girl he prayed for. She meets his prayer. That she also thinks of the camels, also proves that she is a righteous one (Proverbs 12:10a).

Rebekah is not only handsome and pure, but she is also helpful and diligent. She shows her desire to refresh others when they ask for it. As said, she does more than she has been asked to do. The servant has asked for “a little water”, but she lets him drink until he has enough. After that she also draws for “your camels”. That is a huge job, because camels drink enormous amounts of water and it concerns ten camels (Genesis 24:10). She knows what she asks and does what she wants to do. This is how the Lord Jesus sees His church. How good it is, when we, as members of His church, are committed to what serves to refresh others.

Genesis 24:47

The Servant Meets Rebekah

The LORD answers the prayer of the servant. He is done according to his faith. His prayer is answered quickly, even before he has finished speaking. The first one to come to draw water is the girl he prayed for. She meets his prayer. That she also thinks of the camels, also proves that she is a righteous one (Proverbs 12:10a).

Rebekah is not only handsome and pure, but she is also helpful and diligent. She shows her desire to refresh others when they ask for it. As said, she does more than she has been asked to do. The servant has asked for “a little water”, but she lets him drink until he has enough. After that she also draws for “your camels”. That is a huge job, because camels drink enormous amounts of water and it concerns ten camels (Genesis 24:10). She knows what she asks and does what she wants to do. This is how the Lord Jesus sees His church. How good it is, when we, as members of His church, are committed to what serves to refresh others.

Genesis 24:48

Closer Acquaintance

Before he comes to the conclusion that she is the girl for whom he has prayed, he observes her silently. He does not rush, but seeks the confirmation of what he has asked the LORD (cf. Habakkuk 2:1). He doesn’t disturb her in her work, but also lets her take care of the camels. When the camels have drunk enough, he decorates Rebekah with the decorations he received from Abraham (Genesis 24:47).

Rebekah has shown her service. That is a decoration. Our practice as a Christian is an ornament of the teachings of Christ (Titus 2:10). In everything in which the believer makes the new life work, he is decorated, making his beauty even greater.

To convince himself that she is the girl for whom he has prayed the LORD, he asks who she is. At the same time he asks if he can spend the night in her father’s house. Rebekah tells that she is the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Nahor, the brother of Abraham (Genesis 11:26). She belongs to the family of Abraham and thus meets the necessary condition to be the wife of Isaac. The servant’s second question, about the possibility of spending the night, is answered by her with a hospitable offer.

Genesis 24:49

Closer Acquaintance

Before he comes to the conclusion that she is the girl for whom he has prayed, he observes her silently. He does not rush, but seeks the confirmation of what he has asked the LORD (cf. Habakkuk 2:1). He doesn’t disturb her in her work, but also lets her take care of the camels. When the camels have drunk enough, he decorates Rebekah with the decorations he received from Abraham (Genesis 24:47).

Rebekah has shown her service. That is a decoration. Our practice as a Christian is an ornament of the teachings of Christ (Titus 2:10). In everything in which the believer makes the new life work, he is decorated, making his beauty even greater.

To convince himself that she is the girl for whom he has prayed the LORD, he asks who she is. At the same time he asks if he can spend the night in her father’s house. Rebekah tells that she is the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Nahor, the brother of Abraham (Genesis 11:26). She belongs to the family of Abraham and thus meets the necessary condition to be the wife of Isaac. The servant’s second question, about the possibility of spending the night, is answered by her with a hospitable offer.

Genesis 24:50

Closer Acquaintance

Before he comes to the conclusion that she is the girl for whom he has prayed, he observes her silently. He does not rush, but seeks the confirmation of what he has asked the LORD (cf. Habakkuk 2:1). He doesn’t disturb her in her work, but also lets her take care of the camels. When the camels have drunk enough, he decorates Rebekah with the decorations he received from Abraham (Genesis 24:47).

Rebekah has shown her service. That is a decoration. Our practice as a Christian is an ornament of the teachings of Christ (Titus 2:10). In everything in which the believer makes the new life work, he is decorated, making his beauty even greater.

To convince himself that she is the girl for whom he has prayed the LORD, he asks who she is. At the same time he asks if he can spend the night in her father’s house. Rebekah tells that she is the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Nahor, the brother of Abraham (Genesis 11:26). She belongs to the family of Abraham and thus meets the necessary condition to be the wife of Isaac. The servant’s second question, about the possibility of spending the night, is answered by her with a hospitable offer.

Genesis 24:51

Closer Acquaintance

Before he comes to the conclusion that she is the girl for whom he has prayed, he observes her silently. He does not rush, but seeks the confirmation of what he has asked the LORD (cf. Habakkuk 2:1). He doesn’t disturb her in her work, but also lets her take care of the camels. When the camels have drunk enough, he decorates Rebekah with the decorations he received from Abraham (Genesis 24:47).

Rebekah has shown her service. That is a decoration. Our practice as a Christian is an ornament of the teachings of Christ (Titus 2:10). In everything in which the believer makes the new life work, he is decorated, making his beauty even greater.

To convince himself that she is the girl for whom he has prayed the LORD, he asks who she is. At the same time he asks if he can spend the night in her father’s house. Rebekah tells that she is the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Nahor, the brother of Abraham (Genesis 11:26). She belongs to the family of Abraham and thus meets the necessary condition to be the wife of Isaac. The servant’s second question, about the possibility of spending the night, is answered by her with a hospitable offer.

Genesis 24:52

Closer Acquaintance

Before he comes to the conclusion that she is the girl for whom he has prayed, he observes her silently. He does not rush, but seeks the confirmation of what he has asked the LORD (cf. Habakkuk 2:1). He doesn’t disturb her in her work, but also lets her take care of the camels. When the camels have drunk enough, he decorates Rebekah with the decorations he received from Abraham (Genesis 24:47).

Rebekah has shown her service. That is a decoration. Our practice as a Christian is an ornament of the teachings of Christ (Titus 2:10). In everything in which the believer makes the new life work, he is decorated, making his beauty even greater.

To convince himself that she is the girl for whom he has prayed the LORD, he asks who she is. At the same time he asks if he can spend the night in her father’s house. Rebekah tells that she is the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Nahor, the brother of Abraham (Genesis 11:26). She belongs to the family of Abraham and thus meets the necessary condition to be the wife of Isaac. The servant’s second question, about the possibility of spending the night, is answered by her with a hospitable offer.

Genesis 24:53

The Servant Praises the LORD

After he has received the assurance that Rebekah is the girl who responds to his order, he praises the LORD for His great lovingkindness toward Abraham and the guidance he himself has experienced. He has prayed for prosperity, and now that he has obtained it, he thanks God for it. What we receive as an answer to our prayer should cause us to give thanks as our first reaction (Daniel 2:16-19).

Genesis 24:54

The Servant Praises the LORD

After he has received the assurance that Rebekah is the girl who responds to his order, he praises the LORD for His great lovingkindness toward Abraham and the guidance he himself has experienced. He has prayed for prosperity, and now that he has obtained it, he thanks God for it. What we receive as an answer to our prayer should cause us to give thanks as our first reaction (Daniel 2:16-19).

Genesis 24:55

Laban

Rebekah’s brother, Laban, is a man who is only interested in ornaments. He is a picture of an earthly- and worldly-minded Christian. Outwardly such a Christian belongs to the family of God, but like Laban, it is only about monetary gain (cf. Acts 8:13-24).

Genesis 24:56

Laban

Rebekah’s brother, Laban, is a man who is only interested in ornaments. He is a picture of an earthly- and worldly-minded Christian. Outwardly such a Christian belongs to the family of God, but like Laban, it is only about monetary gain (cf. Acts 8:13-24).

Genesis 24:57

Laban

Rebekah’s brother, Laban, is a man who is only interested in ornaments. He is a picture of an earthly- and worldly-minded Christian. Outwardly such a Christian belongs to the family of God, but like Laban, it is only about monetary gain (cf. Acts 8:13-24).

Genesis 24:58

Laban

Rebekah’s brother, Laban, is a man who is only interested in ornaments. He is a picture of an earthly- and worldly-minded Christian. Outwardly such a Christian belongs to the family of God, but like Laban, it is only about monetary gain (cf. Acts 8:13-24).

Genesis 24:59

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:60

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:61

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:62

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:63

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:64

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:65

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:66

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?

Genesis 24:67

The Report of the Servant and His Question

If food is set before the servant to eat, he will not eat until he has told his business. What occupies him internally – his lord’s order – is more important to him than the needs of his body (Genesis 24:32-33). We see the same with the Lord Jesus in His life on earth (John 4:34).

The servant tells them in detail the wonderful confluence of circumstances, in which he clearly describes the guidance of God. First he introduces himself. He is the servant of Abraham. Then he tells about his master and how he is blessed by the LORD, and that there is a son to whom his master has given all that he possesses (Genesis 24:34-36).

Next, he announces with which commission his master sent him on his way, how he reacted to it and what Abraham said about it (Genesis 24:37-41). He tells them how he prayed to ask for guidance through a sign (Genesis 24:42-44). Then he recounts how God has answered his prayer – which he has spoken in his heart – to the smallest details (Genesis 24:45-47). Finally, he reports how he bowed his knees before the LORD and worshiped Him for the goodness shown to him (Genesis 24:48).

The servant’s report contains a wealth of data on the greatness of his master and his son. He also talks about what his master’s plan is with regard to the bride. He also mentions the way he went.

In all this we can see a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit Who wants to tell us about the glory of the Lord Jesus and God’s plans with the church: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you” (John 16:13-15).

When the servant has made his reported, he asks them for their reaction. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is waiting for a response from us when He has told us about the Father and the Son. Are we prepared to leave everything behind to be with the Bridegroom?