Jacob and Esau // Genesis 25

 

TEXT - Genesis 25

In Genesis 25, Abraham dies and is buried with Sarah. Issac and Rebekah pray for a child for 20 years and are blessed with twins, Jacob and Esau, who are at odds both in and out of the womb. This chapter begins the next section of Genesis, focused on Issac’s line. We see man continue to sin and see God exhibit sovereignty and grace; the plot of the entire Bible. What more can we learn from Issac’s family about the character of God and the depravity of man?

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.

  • What does Issac do in response to Rebekah’s barrenness? How does this compare to other responses to barrenness that you know of in the Bible?

  • What is a birthright? Check out Deuteronomy 21:17 for some additional context.

HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD

  • In verse 23, the Lord tells Rebekah that Esau (the older) will serve Jacob (the younger). Take a look at Romans 9:6-13 and Malachi 1:2-3. What do these verses and the future of Jacob and Esau show you about God? Does this encourage you or do you have trouble understanding this aspect of God?

  • What is promised to you as an inheritance as a follower of Christ?

HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)

  • When have you been tempted to give up a long-term gift from God for something that would bring immediate pleasure? Does your story and Esau’s story encourage you to resist that temptation next time?

  • Do you have a hunger for things of this world or do you find yourself living considering your inheritance in Christ? How can you cultivate a life that is kingdom-focused?