The name Eliezer (meaning “My God is a help”) is one of the most significant names in the “Who Was” files. It belongs to several men who appear at crucial turning points in the biblical narrative, each illustrating how God provides specific assistance to His people in times of transition.
1. Eliezer of Damascus: The Faithful Steward
The first Eliezer mentioned in Scripture was the trusted steward of Abraham’s household. Before Isaac was born, Abraham considered Eliezer his heir.
- A Man of Unwavering Trust: Abraham described him as the “steward of my house” (Genesis 15:2). He was responsible for all of Abraham’s vast possessions.
- The Search for a Bride: Though his name is not explicitly repeated in Genesis 24, he is traditionally identified as the “eldest servant” sent to find a wife for Isaac. His prayer for a sign at the well is a masterclass in dependent faith.”And he said, O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and shew kindness unto my master Abraham.” (Genesis 24:12, KJV)
- Faith in Action: Eliezer’s refusal to eat until he had delivered his message shows a man whose mission was more important than his own comfort.
2. Eliezer the Son of Moses
The second son of Moses and Zipporah was named Eliezer. His name served as a personal Ebenezer (a stone of help) for Moses, reflecting his gratitude for God’s protection during his exile from Egypt.
“And the name of the other was Eliezer; for the God of my father, said he, was mine help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh:” (Exodus 18:4, KJV)
While his brother Gershom’s name reflected the “stranger in a strange land” experience, Eliezer’s name focused on divine deliverance. He represents the legacy of a man who recognizes that his survival is due entirely to the “Help of God.”
3. Eliezer the Prophet: The Rebuker of Kings
During the reign of Jehoshaphat, a prophet named Eliezer the son of Dodavah came forward with a stern word from the Lord.
- Opposing Unholy Alliances: King Jehoshaphat had joined himself with the wicked King Ahaziah of Israel to build ships for trade. Eliezer prophesied that because of this compromise, the venture would fail.”Because thou hast joined thyself with Ahaziah, the Lord hath broken thy works. And the ships were broken, that they were not able to go to Tarshish.” (2 Chronicles 20:37, KJV)
- The Cost of Conviction: Eliezer stood against a “good” king to tell him he was wrong. He exemplifies the “firm, theological tone” of one who defends the truth even against political allies.
4. Eliezer the Priest: The Trumpeter
In the great procession to bring the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem, a priest named Eliezer was appointed to blow the trumpet before the Ark.
“…and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets before the ark of God:” (1 Chronicles 15:24, KJV)
His role was to herald the presence of the King of Kings. In the “Faith Forensic” view, his trumpet blast was a testimony that Israel’s true “Help” had arrived at His resting place.
Lessons from the Eliezers
The lives of these men provide a composite picture of what it means to rely on the “Help of God”:
- Stewardship: Like Abraham’s servant, we are stewards of a Great Master. Our job is to be found faithful, especially when we are sent to “find a bride” (the Church) for the Master’s Son.
- Identity: Like the son of Moses, our very identity should be a testimony of how God delivered us from the “sword” of our past.
- Separation: Like the prophet, we must realize that God will “break the works” of those who try to mix the holy with the profane.
- Worship: Like the priest, our lives should be a “trumpet blast” that announces the presence and authority of God to the world.