Holly Bible - KJV with Concise Commentaries by Z Selam - HTML preview
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right as to take nothing of the spoils to himself. Note, the vows we have made when we are in pursuit of a mercy must be carefully and conscientiously kept when we have obtained the mercy, though they were made against our interest. A citizen of Zion, if he has sworn, whether it be to God or man, though it prove to his own hurt, yet he changeth not, Ps 15:4. Or,
[2.] Perhaps Abram, now when he saw cause to refuse the offer made him, at the same time confirmed his refusal with this oath, to prevent further importunity. Note, First, There may be good reason sometimes why we should debar ourselves of that which is our undoubted right, as St. Paul, 1Co 8:13,1Co 9:12. Secondly, That strong resolutions are of good use to put by the force of temptations.
23 that I will not take from a thread even to a shoe-latchet, and that I
will not take anything that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:
He backs his refusal with a good reason: Lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich, which would reflect reproach,
(1.) Upon the promise and covenant of God, as if they would not have enriched Abram without the spoils of Sodom. And,
(2.) Upon the piety and charity of Abram, as if all he had in his eye, when he undertook that hazardous expedition, was to enrich himself. Note,
[1.] We must be very careful that we give no occasion to others to say things which they ought not.
[2.] The people of God must, for their credit's sake, take heed of doing anything that looks mean or mercenary, or that savours of covetousness and self-seeking. Probably Abram knew the king of Sodom to be a proud and scornful man, and one that would be apt to turn such a thing as this to his reproach afterwards, though most unreasonably. When we have to do with such men, we have need to act with particular caution.