Genesis 25:19-26 We are moving on into the next section or "toledot" of Genesis. Why does Isaac get so much less of his story told than his father, Abraham, or his son, Jacob? Is there a lesson there for us? How does Isaac respond to his wife's inability to conceive a child? The pregnancy that finally occurs turns out to be very difficult. Why? A new major theme surfaces in Genesis. What is it? What is God's explanation to Rebekah for the violent struggle she is feeling? Is it O.K. for us to ask God "why?" How should we respond to His answer? (59 min)

Keywords Isaac, Jacob, Esau, Rebekah

Genesis 25:1-18 We come finally to the end of the story of Abraham. What is this about another wife? What lessons are there for us in the other sons of Abraham? Why does God give Ishmael his own toledot in the book of Genesis? At the end of Abraham's life we learn he was fully satisfied with life. How did this happen? How does this compare to the end of his grandson Jacob's life? Though satisfied with life, Abraham ends his life still longing for something else. What was that? Why does Hebrews say that God was not ashamed to be called Abraham's God? (56 min)

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Ishamael, Hagar

Genesis 24:50-67 Having told his story, Abraham's servant awaits an answer from Rebekah's family. While the affirmative answer appears spiritual enough, it reveals a fatalistic view of God's direction, in sharp contrast to the response of the servant. By morning Laban's commitment appears to have waned. How does this change of circumstances fit into God's purposes? Given the choice, how will Rebekah respond to God's call on her life. What kinds of things do you think the traveling party discussed on the return to Canaan? What is the significance of Isaac's recent visit to Beer-lahai-roi? When Isaac and Rebekah are finally united, how will things work out? (60 min)

Keywords Isaac, Rebekah

Genesis 24:29-49 In his search for a wife for Isaac, Abraham's servant arrives in the home of Laban. Much of this passage is a repetition of the story we've already read. Why is this repetition important to us? Why is Laban so eager to invite this stranger into his house? As the servant tells the story about his prayer at the well, what is Rebekah thinking? By the time we reach the end of this passage Rebekah knows that she is being called to be the "second Abraham." What does that mean? Do you recall what it was like to discover God's intimate concern about you, and His involvement in your life? (56 min.)

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah