Genesis 24–33; Lesson 29
Genesis 24
The Blessing of Covenant Marriage
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Do certain blessings sometimes feel out of reach? Because of Isaac’s situation, the prospect of marriage might not have seemed possible. But the Lord made a way for Isaac, and He can do the same for us. This lesson can help you understand why eternal, covenant marriage is important in Heavenly Father’s plan.
Study the Scriptures
What is the longest distance you’ve walked in a day? If it was for something important, how far would you be willing to walk?
Abraham and Sarah wanted their son Isaac to have a covenant marriage like theirs. But there were no eligible women in Canaan (number 13 on the map) who believed as they did. Isaac needed to find a wife who could enter “the new and everlasting covenant of marriage” (see Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4; 132:19–20, 37). Today, we enter into this covenant when we are married in the Lord’s holy temples. The only people Abraham knew who could marry according to God’s law were his relatives in Haran (number 8 on the map), a journey of nearly 1,200 miles (1,931 kilometers).
Scripture help. The Joseph Smith Translation changes the word “thigh” to “hand” in Genesis 24:2, 9. This meant that Abraham and his servant entered into an agreement.
The name “Jehovah” in the King James Version of the Bible is generally indicated by LORD in all capital letters. The words “Lord” or “lord,” on the other hand, may simply refer to someone holding power, authority, or influence, such as a master or ruler. (See Genesis 24:12–27 and Bible Dictionary, “Jehovah”)
As you study Genesis 24, invite the Spirit to help you understand the importance of temple marriage. While you may not know how, when, or whom you will marry, as you live worthy of the celestial kingdom, you can have confidence in the Lord’s plan for you. Seek insight on how the Lord can help you receive an eternal temple marriage.
Read Genesis 24:1–4, 7–9, looking for instructions Abraham gave his servant regarding his son Isaac.
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If a friend asked you to walk a long distance to help find the right spouse for them, would you? Why?
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Why do you think it was worth such a sacrifice to help Isaac marry in the covenant?
While waiting by a well in Haran, Abraham’s servant prayed to know whom the Lord would have him find.
Abraham’s servant met Rebekah’s brother and father. He explained who he was and how the Lord had helped him find Rebekah. The following day, Rebekah courageously chose to return with the servant and be sealed to Isaac in the covenant of eternal marriage (see Genesis 24:29–67).
Review the following study options. Complete one or more. Then complete the “Now What?” section at the end of the lesson.
Option A
Why eternal marriage?
Underneath your temple drawing, write a question that could help you better understand the truths you’ve learned today. This could be your own question, a question from someone you know, or one of the following:
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Why is eternal marriage important?
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What blessings can I obtain by being married in the temple and then striving to honor those covenants?
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How can the Lord help someone who is striving for an eternal marriage but worries they may never receive this blessing?
To help you respond to your question, search various Church resources, such as the following:
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Doctrinal mastery passages (Genesis 2:24; 1 Corinthians 11:11; Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4)
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“Marriage” and related entries in the Topical Guide, Guide to the Scriptures, or Topics and Questions in the Gospel Library
The following statement from President Henry B. Eyring might also be helpful:
A prophet of God once offered me counsel that gives me peace. I was worried that the choices of others might make it impossible for our family to be together forever. He said, “You are worrying about the wrong problem. You just live worthy of the celestial kingdom, and the family arrangements will be more wonderful than you can imagine.” …
I testify that as you live worthy of the celestial kingdom, the prophetic promise that “family arrangements will be more wonderful than you can imagine” will be yours. (“The Hope of Eternal Family Love,” Ensign, Aug. 2016, 5)
Option B
How does Rebekah symbolize Jesus Christ?
There are many individuals who symbolize Jesus Christ in the Old Testament. The following steps can help you consider how Rebekah demonstrated Christlike attributes and how these attributes can be helpful in marriage.
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Read Genesis 24:16–20, 55–58, marking traits of Rebekah that remind you of Jesus Christ. For example, in verse 17 Rebekah ran to help Abraham’s servant. Jesus Christ runs to help us when we are in need.
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Select two or more of Rebekah’s Christlike attributes.
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Create a note next to each Christlike attribute explaining why this attribute would be helpful in marriage.
Now What?
What did you learn today about Heavenly Father or Jesus Christ that could give you hope in your efforts to invite the blessings of temple marriage? Find a friend or family member with whom you can share your thoughts.
Share Your Thoughts
Lesson Purpose: To help you understand why eternal, covenant marriage is important in Heavenly Father’s plan.
Share one or more of the following with your teacher or class:
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Your drawing, question, and something you learned about the blessings of eternal marriage.
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One of Rebekah’s Christlike attributes and how it would be helpful in marriage.
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Something specific you did to achieve the purpose of this lesson.
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Any questions this lesson raised for you. How will you try to find answers to your questions?