INTRODUCTION: The Scriptures often remind us of the reality of death. God is very interested and concerned in the death of His people [Psalms 116:15]. Death is not an unpleasant thing, but rather a profitable theme of meditation for the child of God. Salvation delivers from the fear of death [Hebrews 2:15]. Death ushers the saint into God's presence [Philippians 2:21-23]. The thought of death reminds the Christian of the importance of spiritual matters.I. A UNIQUE RECORD - verses 1-2.
Sarah is the only woman whose death, burial, and even age is given extensive coverage in the Scripture. She is the "Mary" of the Old Testament and the mother of the faithful [I Peter 3:1- 6].II. A BURIAL PLACE - verses 3-16.
We cannot help but notice the refined manner and courtesy of Abraham. The offer of Ephron in verse 11, may have been a mere statement of courtesy, not intended to be taken seriously. Such is the method of business in parts of the world. When Ephron mentioned a price, Abraham paid it without dickering and obtained a burial spot for his family.Notice several lessons:
A. Death comes to all. Not even God's people are exempt.B. Death ends our duty toward, and influence upon the soul of an individual. Abraham was concerned to bury Sarah's body, not pray for or perform ceremonies for her soul. All attempts to spiritually benefit the deceased are nothing but superstition. Death seals the fate of the soul and leaves an individual in Heaven or Hell.
C. The worshippers of God have always treated the body of the deceased loved ones with love and respect. Christ died to redeem both body and soul and both are His property. The body is buried in hope of the coming resurrection [I Corinthians 15:42-44].
III. BURIAL IN CANAAN - verses 17-20.
God had promised to Abraham and his seed the land of Palestine. Abraham died without yet receiving this, but he knew that the promise was sure [Hebrews 11:13]. Abraham's purchase of the field, seemed to indicate not only his need of a burial place but also his desire for a plot of land in Canaan. This was the only part of Canaan he owned in his lifetime. He intended to be buried himself in the land that he and his seed would inherit [Genesis 25:7-9]. In the resurrection he will rise to claim the promise.
=================