Repeated phrases:
(1) v.1-11 The death and burial of Abraham v.6,7,8,10, and Isaac inherited everything from him v.5, 11.
Abraham had other sons from his concubine, but he did not even out his wealth. The way he did that showed his faith in God and his trust in God's promise.
Reflection: Can we be faithful to God until we died? 25:8 Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man who had lived a full life. What matters is the ending.
(2) v.12-18 Ishmael's descendants were recorded here. More attention was given to him than to the other concubine's sons. He was special among other sons from concubine. It was because God promised Hagar when she escaped from Sarah and when she was expelled from the family. God was the faithful God and kept His words.
Reflection: God was faithful to us who are like dust. He also protects us in both big and small things. I stepped out to the garage this morning to throw away trash in recycled bin and I found that we have not closed the garage door for the whole night! God protected us and kept us safe.
(3) v.19-26 The difficulties of the birth of Isaac's sons v.21, 22 and the struggles of the twins v.23, 24.
Isaac inherited the promise for many descendants, but his wife was barren for 20 years. God gave them the descendants like He gave Isaac to Abraham and Sarah. However, now the questions arise: when there were 2 descendants who would continue the promise of God? The following chapters would described their struggles. However, God had already made the choice before their birth.
25:23 and the LORD said to her,
“Two nations are in your womb,
and two peoples will be separated from within you.
One people will be stronger than the other,
and the older will serve the younger.”
(NET) By metonymy the two children in her womb are described as two nations of which the two children, Jacob and Esau, would become the fathers. The language suggests there would be a struggle between these nations, with one being stronger than the other. The oracle reveals that all of Jacob’s scheming was unnecessary in the final analysis. He would have become the dominant nation without using deception to steal his brother’s blessing.
Reflection: I do not know why God chose to give Isaac and Rebekah twins. Was God purposely showed the doctrine of election? Anyway, it was very obvious that our election has nothing to do who we are. It is not because we are good/bad that God chose us. He is sovereign and He chose us before the foundation of the world. Other than having a thankful heart what else can we say?
Audrey
Comments