When Truth Meets Fear

Genesis 20:8–13 (NASB95) 

8So Abimelech arose early in the morning and called all his servants and told all these things in their hearing; and the men were greatly frightened. 9Then Abimelech called Abraham and said to him, “What have you done to us? And how have I sinned against you, that you have brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? You have done to me things that ought not to be done.” 10And Abimelech said to Abraham, “What have you encountered, that you have done this thing?” 11Abraham said, “Because I thought, surely there is no fear of God in this place, and they will kill me because of my wife. 12“Besides, she actually is my sister, the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother, and she became my wife; 13and it came about, when God caused me to wander from my father’s house, that I said to her, ‘This is the kindness which you will show to me: everywhere we go, say of me, “He is my brother.” ’ ” 

King Abimelech woke early and gathered his officials. He told them about the dream from God. Fear swept through the court. Abimelech summoned Abraham and demanded an explanation. The king’s questions were sharp. “What have you done to us? What was your reason?” Abimelech’s concern was not just for himself but for his people. He wanted to do what was right. He showed more moral clarity than Abraham expected. 

Abraham tried to defend himself. He said he feared for his life because he thought Gerar had no fear of God. He assumed the people would kill him to take Sarah. Abraham’s fear led him to judge others unfairly. He also claimed that Sarah was his half-sister. This was technically true, but it hid the full truth. Abraham’s explanation was a mix of excuses and half-truths. He had used this strategy before, trusting his own plans more than God’s protection. 

 Abimelech’s response showed integrity. He did not act out of anger or pride. He wanted to make things right. He recognized the seriousness of adultery and the need to protect his people from guilt. God had warned him in a dream, and he listened. The king’s actions stand in contrast to Abraham’s fear and self-preservation. 

God protected both Abraham and Abimelech. He revealed the truth and prevented disaster. Yet God did not approve of Abraham’s deception. The silence from God after Abraham’s defense is telling. Abraham could explain his actions, but he could not justify them. 

The church today faces similar challenges. Fear can lead us to compromise the truth or judge others unfairly. We may rely on technicalities or half-truths, thinking we are doing the right thing. But God calls His people to honesty, humility, and trust in His protection. Speak the truth to others and trust that God will do the rest and draw people to Him.