We have previously discussed four important points:
1) What the text says
2) How the text says it
3) The importance of considering the context of the text
4) The interpretation must make plain simple sense

Tonight, we will continue discussing three additional concepts:
1) The Simple explanation of what the text says
2) The Deeper meaning of what the text says
3) The Homiletical meaning of what the text says

Why do we study the text for a deeper explanation? A deeper understanding leads to an appreciation of the story’s significance. Additionally, we understand our personalities as human beings. Though technology may change, we remain the same.

There is always the Simple explanation of the text and then there is a Deeper meaning based upon proper exegesis, and finally the Homiletical meaning, the meaning for preaching and teaching purposes.

Our Study
Genesis 25:20–34 (NKJV)
Key Takeaways for us as Believers:
1. God is in control of nations and individual destinies.
2. God’s election is based on His purpose, not human merit.
3. Spiritual struggle is necessary for growth and transformation.
4. Conflict is a part of God’s Plan
5. God’s promises require patience and faith.
6. We must live by the Spirit, not by the flesh.

Why does the text mention the age of Isaac?
What would be some homiletical points one could make from this?
Where do you think she went to inquire of the Lord? Based upon your recent teaching what seems logical?
Would she have known of Abraham?
Did Rebekah Know Sarah?
• Sarah died at age 127 (Genesis 23:1).
• Isaac was 37 years old when Sarah died (Genesis 23:1 with Genesis 17:17).
• Isaac married Rebekah when he was 40 years old (Genesis 25:20), which was three years after Sarah’s death.
• Since Rebekah was still in Paddan-Aram (Mesopotamia) when Abraham’s servant found her (Genesis 24), and Sarah had already died by that time, Rebekah never met Sarah.
Did Rebekah Know Abraham?
• Abraham was 140 years old when Isaac married Rebekah (Genesis 25:20).
• Abraham lived to be 175 years old (Genesis 25:7), meaning he was alive for 35 years after Rebekah married Isaac.
• This means Rebekah likely knew Abraham for at least 35 years after she came to Canaan.
Conclusion
• Rebekah never met Sarah since Sarah had died before Rebekah came to Canaan.
• Rebekah knew Abraham for about 35 years after she married Isaac, meaning she would have had time to learn from him and hear firsthand about God’s covenant and promises.