Book of Genesis - Chapter 20 - Verse 3

In this verse from the book of Genesis, God speaks to Abimelech, the king of Gerar, in a dream to warn him about taking Sarah, who is actually Abraham's wife. Despite Abimelech's intentions being innocent, God delivers a powerful message to show the seriousness of the situation. By telling Abimelech that he is as good as dead for taking another man's wife, God demonstrates his commitment to protecting the sanctity of marriage and upholding the importance of faithfulness. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and his power to intervene in the lives of individuals to ensure his divine plan is carried out. It also emphasizes the consequences of actions taken without seeking God's guidance, no matter how unintentional they may seem. Through this dream, God reveals his authority and demands respect for the institution of marriage, showcasing his righteous and just nature.

In this verse from Genesis 20:3, we see a theological interpretation of God's intervention in the affairs of Abimelech. The visitation of God to Abimelech in a dream highlights God's sovereignty and His active involvement in the lives of individuals. The phrase "Behold, thou art but a dead man" conveys the seriousness of Abimelech's actions in taking Sarah, who was actually Abraham's wife. This emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, as seen in the consequences faced by Abimelech. Through this encounter, we can also draw lessons about the value of integrity and honor in our relationships, as well as the need to seek God's guidance in all our decisions. The word "dead man" in the passage indicates the grave consequences of Abimelech's actions, serving as a warning to us all to heed God's word and live in obedience to His will.