Genesis 15:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Throughout generations, many have drawn from the well of his excellence without ever exhausting its supply; in fact, his virtues are ever more richly revealed as time goes on.

In the divine Scriptures, we encounter numerous accounts of him, arranged so that we first witness the manifestations of his wisdom, followed closely by the divine rewards he received. To convince you of this truth, it is essential to briefly revisit what has already been revealed about him. You will observe both the astonishing strength of the righteous man's faith in God’s promises and the generous blessings he received from the loving Creator. Truly, this righteous man inspires us all to ardently seek opportunities for virtuous deeds in anticipation of heavenly rewards, encouraging us to endure our current trials with a heart full of hope.

Reflect upon how Abraham, at the outset, prepared himself for divine revelation armed only with the reason innately present in human nature, lacking any worldly teacher and raised by parents lacking faith. He ardently pursued the pleasure of God, earning the honor of a heavenly visitation while in the land of the Chaldeans. Blessed Stephen affirms this, proclaiming, "The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham in Mesopotamia, before his migration to Harran" (Acts 7:2). Recognize how this divine appearance called him forth from Mesopotamia; he honored God and, in turn, his father also showed much love and decided to accompany him, leaving their homeland for a foreign land.

Pay close attention to how this very visitation from God, honoring Abraham's early virtues, further illuminated those same qualities. He resolved to leave his homeland to obey God’s command, willing, it seems, to embark alone, though his virtues inspired his father to join him. Upon arriving in Harran, they set up a dwelling there. After the death of Terah, his father, God once again urged him to depart, commanding, "Go from your land, from your kindred, and from your father's house, to the land that I will show you" (Gen. 12:1). The Lord emphasized that he should go alone, having moved to Harran with his entire household, indicating that it was His wish that Abraham make the journey without his brother Nahor or anyone else. Although he mourned for his parents and faced many difficulties, he eagerly obeyed, not knowing his destination.

The Lord did not specify a particular land, instead stating, "which I will show thee." In spite of the ambiguity of the command, Abraham faithfully undertook the journey. He also brought along his nephew Lot, demonstrating his virtuous character; he took him in when he was still young and gradually mentored him, believing he could help the young man grow in virtue. Abraham reasoned that if his father, despite his shortcomings, had left his homeland out of love for him, how much more should he not abandon his nephew, who had shown a budding character in virtue.

So it was that, driven by profound love for God in all matters, Abraham journeyed into Palestine, reaching the borders of Canaan. There, God sought to reinforce his zeal by appearing to him and proclaiming, "To your offspring I will give this land" (Gen. 12:7). This fulfillment of his deep desire—the continuation of his lineage—was a generous reward for his arduous travels. Even though Sarah was barren, preventing any hope of children at their advanced age, God encouraged the ascetic with His promise. Abundant hope was offered, reviving his spirit for further endeavors.

Then, during a time of great famine in Canaan, Abraham hastened to Egypt, where he faced even graver dangers while searching for sustenance. The beauty of his wife Sarah posed a threat which could lead to his death. As he approached Egypt, he warned her saying, "I know that thou art a woman beautiful in appearance" (Gen. 12:11). He feared that the Egyptians would be captivated by Sarah’s beauty and, in their impetuousness, might kill him to take her. Hence, he urged her to say that she was his sister.

Observe his unwavering courage, a heart steadfast as iron! Despite facing dire misfortunes, he did not question the choice to leave his homeland or ponder the promise, "To your offspring I will give this land," for this was the fear that troubled many. Yet, he remained focused, utilizing wisdom and bravery, while Sarah, out of love and obedience, supported his plan.

And when they had exhausted all human resources and despair loomed, the providence of God intervened. He safeguarded Sarah from dishonor, revealed His wrath against Pharaoh and his household, and ultimately enabled Abraham to return to Palestine laden with glory. Witness how the Lord, in His love and care for His servant amid trials, equipped him for even greater feats, offering unmatched assistance. In his patience, observe the humility and meekness Abraham displayed upon returning from Egypt. Although he returned wealthier, accompanied by Lot, the land could not accommodate them both due to their vast possessions, leading to disputes among their shepherds.

In his wisdom and gentleness, Abraham sought peace, addressing Lot, “Let there be no strife between me and you, nor between my shepherds and your shepherds, for we are kinsmen” (Gen. 13:9). He emphasized the importance of harmony and offered Lot the first choice of land, accepting the less favorable for himself, demonstrating noble character. Upon the separation of their lands, God honored Abraham, saying, "Lift up thine eyes, and from the place where thou art now, look over all this land on every side, for all the land which thou seest I will give unto thee, and unto thy seed forever" (Gen. 13:14-15).

This magnanimous act brought him great reward; having granted Lot the better land, Lot soon found himself in peril, falling victim to a ruthless war. The kings of neighboring nations invaded and ravaged the land, sacking Sodom and taking Lot, his family, and possessions captive.

Yet, observe once more the immense providence of God. Wishing to rescue Lot and honor Abraham, God stirred the patriarch's heart to action. Upon learning of Lot's plight, he rapidly gathered his household and confronted the enemy kings, triumphing without difficulty and freeing his nephew. This great victory showcased divine providence, proving that Abraham's strength stemmed not solely from his own efforts but from divine assistance.

In treating with the king of Sodom, who expressed gratitude and offered an exchange for his cavalry, Abraham, displaying his wisdom, conveyed that he needed no reward. He aimed to enlighten the king, not merely by refusing his gifts but by declaring, "I lift up my hand unto the Lord God Most High" (Gen. 14:22). He could have benefited greatly from the king’s offerings, teaching him to recognize the one true God who created heaven and earth and spurn the false gods of stone and wood.

In his dialogue, Abraham clarified that he would accept nothing—"not even a thread or a shoe strap" (Gen. 14:23)—from the king, ensuring no one might claim that he had become rich through the king's generosity. Rather, his victory and wealth were a result of God's favor and protection.

Then, when Melchizedek, king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God, presented him with bread and wine, Abraham received the gifts gratefully and offered a tithe of all he had acquired as a gesture of thanksgiving. This exchange, rooted in righteousness, illustrates the principle that one should distinguish between whom to accept gifts from. The king of Sodom, though generous in spirit, remained unfaithful and needed correction, leading Abraham to refuse him wisely; however, he accepted Melchizedek’s offerings, validating his character as a true servant of God.

Furthermore, this episode foreshadowed Christ, highlighting a profound mystery in Abraham’s acceptance of the gifts. By acknowledging Melchizedek and giving a tithe, Abraham signified the depth of his virtue. We have briefly retraced the journey of the righteous, highlighting his bravery, moral courage, extraordinary faith, humility, and disregard for material wealth, alongside God’s unwavering watchfulness and favor upon him.

If you will, let us now return briefly to our reading to observe the reward Abraham received for spurning the gifts of the king of Sodom. After his refusal, the Scripture declares, "After these incidents was the word of the Lord unto Abraham." Why does it say "after these things"? It is quite clear that it refers to the events surrounding his interaction with the king of Sodom—his rejection of gifts and exhortations towards godliness.

Once he completed these actions, then "the word of the Lord came to Abraham in a vision, and said, Fear not, Abraham; I am thy shield; thy reward is very great." See the humanity of the Lord, how promptly He rewards His faithful servant with blessings, rejuvenating and fortifying his spirit. "The word of the Lord was spoken to Abraham in a vision by night." This night vision allowed for quiet reception of God's message.

When God reassured Abraham, "Fear not, Abraham," He addressed the very concern Abraham carried—having disregarded the gifts from the king of Sodom, He affirmed that this would not diminish Abraham's own blessings. By invoking his name, God offered tremendous encouragement. God continued, declaring, "I am thy shield," underscoring that He, who called Abraham from Chaldea and led him to Canaan, was also his protector. The One who consistently honors him will fight for him and ensure ease amid all difficulties.

In response to Abraham's faithfulness, God promised reward far beyond what he might have received from the king, revealing the generosity and abundance of divine provision. The Lord made clear that Abraham’s labor, marked by trials and sacrifices, would be met with an immeasurable reward: "Thy reward is very great." Note the Lord's benevolence and His abundant affirmation, as He sought to uplift the heart of His faithful servant.

The initial two segments of God's message encompass almost all that Abram has been previously informed about from earlier revelations, which might render them seemingly redundant; however, they bring him profound comfort and further bolster his faith, thus preparing him for the latter part of the revelation, which carries a weighty significance. The formal establishment of the covenant is also meant to assure Abram that God will act as his ally and will not abandon his descendants, despite the foreboding knowledge regarding their future. Fear not, Abram; I am thy shield; thy reward is very great. The comforting phrase “fear not” can be interpreted in two ways: either as a distant indication of the forthcoming distress that would befall Abram’s descendants, thereby equipping him with strength and confidence beforehand, or as a response to his emotional state after his triumph over the kings, which brought him honor and glory but may have also incited animosity from the vanquished, jealousy from those he rescued, and anxiety among his allies, rendering his position more vulnerable than prior. In light of Abram's current condition, the subsequent declarations are fitting: I am thy shield; since, in your defense of others against wrongdoing and violence, you find no protection from men, I will be your shield. Thy reward is very great; as you may not partake in the fruits of your labor, lest others think your gains come from men rather than from God, I will be your reward.

As the Lord declared to Moses, "If there be in you a prophet of the Lord, in a vision I will know him, and in a dream I will speak unto him" (Num. 12:6). Abram's experience in receiving this vision was comparable to that of the prophet Isaiah during his prophetic calling (Isaiah 6:1), and the Apostle John, who was "in the spirit on the Lord's day" (Rev. 1:10). The Apostle Paul also describes a similar state, mentioning that he cannot recall whether he was in his physical body or not when he was caught up to the heavens and heard inexpressible words (2 Cor. 12:3-4). Abram's vision occurred “in the night.” This could imply it was literally nighttime, or that the vision simply presented itself to him in that manner. However, like other prophetic visions, it was not a dream, as indicated in verse 12, which notes that it was followed by sleep.

"Fear not, Abram," God reassured him, allowing Abram to hear His voice without a visible manifestation. What fears might have troubled Abram? He could have been concerned about threats from his adversaries, who, following their prior defeat (as noted in the previous chapter), might have sought revenge once they regained their strength. With the possibility of renewed aggression from these foes looming, Abram might have also felt anxious about the jealousy of his neighbors and allies in light of his military victories and burgeoning wealth. To reassure Abram, the Lord continued, "I will be your shield; your reward shall be very great." Given such promises, what could Abram possibly fear? "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear" (Psalm 26:1, 3). The Lord not only stands ready to safeguard Abram from enemies and various threats, but He also pledges to reward Abram richly for his faithfulness and trust in Him, granting him abundant blessings.