Deceit, Destruction, and Sovereign Will // Genesis 27

 

TEXT - Genesis 26

In Genesis 27, we see the unrighteousness of man on full display. Issac plans to give Esau the blessing meant for Jacob after a hearty meal. When Rebekah hears this she springs into action and assists her favorite son in securing the blessing. Jacob is true to his name and, clothed in goat skin, deceives his father. God is sovereign through it all of the family’s unrighteousness, just as he is in our lives.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

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

  • What is similar and what is different between the first (Genesis 25:29-34) and second time that Jacob deceives?

  • How does favoritism play a part in this situation? Is favoritism godly behavior?

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

  • Issac tries to give Esau the blessing meant for Jacob. Rebekah and Jacob deceive Issac in order to ensure that Jacob receives the blessing and God’s will comes to pass. What lie were each of them believing as they acted? How did God work through their sinfulness? How does he work through our sinfulness and unrighteousness?

  • What attributes of God do we see most clearly in this passage? How does this encourage you in your own life?

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

  • Think about a time when you have tried to manipulate a situation into what you thought was God’s will. What are some things that you can do when you are tempted to take the role of God in the future?

  • In chapter 26, Abimelech noticed that the LORD was with Isaac and Issac was experiencing immense blessing. Now that he is old it seems that his faith has weakened or been clouded. How can we encourage ourselves and other believers to keep the faith and persevere in obedience and righteousness?