Some teach that the “trinitarian” nature of God is expressed in Genesis chapter 24.
They will say that Abraham represents the “Father”, Isaac is the “Son” and the servant Eliezer is the Holy Spirit.
I think this interpretation is a bit forced because such an analogy breaks down quite frequently in Scripture.
As I’ve said many times before, while I don’t necessarily think the the trinity teaching is incorrect, I do feel it is insufficient and cannot even begin to account for all of the physical manifestations of God in Scripture or otherwise.
Instead of viewing Eliezer as a type of Holy Spirit, I rather see him as a positive model of servanthood that we should all strive to emulate as we seek to do our Father’s will.
Let’s take a look at some of these servant characteristics:
First, Eliezer is eager to get on with the task that has been assigned to him. No dilly-dallying. There was a high sense of urgency and he didn’t eat or rest until his goal was accomplished.
Second, he did not abuse or misuse the great authority that Abraham had bestowed on him. And let’s face it, he could have if he had wanted to. He was traveling alone. It wasn’t like he was being monitored by his master. If the evil inclination to go off and party for a day or two struck him, it was probably unlikely that Abraham would have known.
Third, he was a man of worship and trust in YHVH as shown by his prayer prior to his encounter with Rebecca. May we all learn from Eliezer’s example to seek God in prayer before embarking on a task.
Fourth, I am so impressed with Eliezer’s fervent devotion to his master. He doesn’t seem to be harboring petty jealousies or other symptoms characteristic of a bad attitude. He is humble in both thought and deed.
Now who else in Scripture embodies the servanthood characteristics that Eliezer manifested?
None other than Yeshua Hamashiach, the “suffering servant“.
CONNECTING THIS TEACHING TO THE NEW TESTAMENT
“But it is not so among you,
but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant;
and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all”.
-Mark 10:43-44
NEXT TIME WE BEGIN GENESIS CHAPTER 25
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