Genesis 50:20-26 and review In this concluding study of the book of Genesis we considered Joseph's final words, including his confidence of what God was doing when his own brothers were planning evil against him. How does this passage help us understand the problem of evil? How should we view evil and respond to it? We also took a brisk walk through the entire book of Genesis, recalling some of the important things we have learned. Finally we ended by considering the faith of Joseph and the other saints of Genesis as they all died "without receiving the promises,” but by faith" welcomed them from afar." (60 min)

Keywords Joseph, Seed, Toledot, Creation, Genesis

Genesis 50:1-14 In this study the narrator of Genesis tells us the striking story of the mourning and burial of Jacob. In all of Scripture there is no other account of someone's burial that goes into such detail. What important points is the Lord wanting to impress upon us with this account? What does God want to leave in our minds concerning the man Jacob? What is the importance of this story at the end of the patriarchal era? Why does a person of faith, like Joseph, grieve so much over the death of his beloved father? How is Joseph's arrival back in Mamre similar to his departure from Canaan as a slave many years before? What are we to learn from the fact that the family returned to Egypt following the burial of their father in their land of promise? (48 min)

Keywords Jacob, Death, Egypt, Joseph

Genesis 49:16-33 In this lesson we continue to consider the blessing Jacob pronounced on the descendants of his twelve sons. Who were the "peoples" who would give obedience to Shiloh? What was the true source of the blessings/prophecies which Jacob pronounced? How were these blessings a help to the tribes of Israel? How and when were these blessings realized? How can we be helped by thinking about Jacob blessing his descendants at this particular time in their history? In Jacob's charge to his sons concerning his burial, why does he repeatedly stipulate so precisely the exact place? Why is God so concerned about "place" in Genesis and throughout scripture? What comfort and encouragement can we draw from the narrator's description of Jacob's death? (46 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Blessing

Genesis 49:1-15 In this lesson we begin examining the third major faith event at the conclusion of Jacob's life, the blessing of his twelve sons. The passage is both prophetic and poetic. How should these aspects of the passage influence the way we understand the blessings? What caused Reuben to forfeit his preeminence in the family? Why did Jacob not want his family's glory to be associated with Simeon or Levi? In what way would the tribe of Issachar relinquish some of the blessings that were intended for it in the land of promise? How is that analogous to how we as Christians sometimes live? What animal is representative of the future of the tribe of Judah? Who or what is "Shiloh?" What does the reference to Judah tying his donkey to a grape vine represent? To what does all this talk about Judah ultimately point? (60 min)

Keywords Jacob, Judah, Reuben, Ephraim, Manasseh, Simeon, Levi

Genesis 48:5-22 We continue the account of Jacob's adoption and blessing of Joseph's two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. What is this about the young men being at the knees of Jacob? Why did Joseph bow down before his father, who had earlier bowed to him? How is this a metaphor of our own adoption by God? Why did Joseph arrange his sons the way he did? Once again we find the rule of primogeniture set aside in the story of the patriarchs. What can we learn from this repeated disregard of this cultural norm? In what three ways does Jacob identify the God whom he invokes in his blessing? How are these significant? How has Jacob changed as he grew older? What brought about these changes in his life? How is the end of Jacob's life instructive to us? (67 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Joseph, Blessing, Adoption, Ephraim, Manasseh

Genesis 48:1-4 In this week's lesson we consider the second of the three key things which Jacob did at the end of his life. The first was to arrange for his burial in Canaan. The second is to adopt and bless the two sons of Joseph, Manasseh and Ephraim. It is important not to view this passage as the ramblings of an aged and ailing man. What is the significance of Jacob collecting his strength to sit up on the bed? Why does the narrator refer to him as Israel at that moment? How has Jacob changed from his early life? Why does Jacob recall for Joseph his own experience at Luz in Canaan (Bethel)? What are the key aspects of God's appearance to him at Luz which Jacob mentions here? What three subtle differences in how Jacob retells the story of Bethel reflect his current frame of mind here at the end of his life? (53 min)

Keywords Jacob, Joseph, Bethel, Ephraim, Manasseh

Genesis 47:27-31 In this passage a dramatic contrast is shown between the condition of the Egyptians and that of the family of Israel. Why did God bless Israel in contrast to the Egyptians? Why does God bless us? We also encounter in this section the first of three experiences in Jacob's life as he nears death. Each of these incidents reveal a man who has moved from fatalism to faith. What is the significance of Jacobs age? What are the two aspects to Jacob's request of Joseph? What is the meaning of the gesture of Joseph placing his hand under Jacob's thigh? Why was it important to Jacob that he be buried in the cave of Machpelah with his ancestors? How does this story about Jacob serve as an instruction to us? (56 min)

Keywords Jacob, Joseph, Faith, Death

Genesis 47:13-26 The focus of the narrator now returns to the subject of the famine that was overwhelming Egypt and Canaan. What are the reasons why this part of the story is recorded in Scripture? How does Joseph's plan for Egypt foreshadow the future political/social structure of Israel in Canaan? This passage tells how Joseph, who was himself once sold into slavery, now buys the Egyptian people into slavery to Pharaoh. How does our modern perception of slavery present difficulties when we encounter biblical accounts or references to slavery? What was slavery in the ancient Near East, and why is that important to know as we study the Bible? How was typical slavery in the ancient Near East different from slavery in the West in the last few centuries? How was the slavery of the Egyptians different from the slavery of the Israelites to the Egyptians in the book of Exodus? Why did God not explicitly condemn and prohibit slavery in the Old Testament? (67 min)

Keywords Joseph, Famine, Slavery

Genesis 47:1-12 In this passage, upon their arrival in Egypt, the family of Israel is presented to Pharaoh. First, the brothers come, hat in hand, asking for the land of Goshen. They openly identify themselves by that which makes them loathsome to the Egyptians. What can we learn from this example? Finally, Jacob is presented to Pharaoh. Why are these two presentations done separately? The two men, Pharaoh and Jacob, are a study in contrasts. How does Jacob's blessing of Pharaoh turn things on their head? What does the Lord want us to learn from Jacob's view of his own "sojourn?" How does Jacob's seemingly pessimistic view coincide with his pronouncing a blessing on Pharaoh? How does Jacob's response to Pharaoh reflect a disposition of faith? (60 min)

Keywords Jacob, Pharaoh, Blessing, Sojourning

Genesis 46:29-34 In this passage today, Jacob and Joseph are finally reunited after twenty-two years. We now see in Jacob something we've not seen in his entire life: contentment. What do we learn about Joseph as he weeps on his father's neck? Two men could hardly be more different in how they have lived their lives. Yet this father and son have something remarkable in common. What is that, and how does it make this reunion like a theophany? Why does Joseph insist on Pharaoh knowing that his family are shepherds and keepers of livestock knowing the Egyptians hold such people in contempt? Why does God allow the family of Israel to experience such contempt, and eventually slavery? What can we learn from this about suffering in our own lives? (43 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Jacob, Egypt

Genesis 46:19-28 There is a purpose in the genealogies in Scripture. In this lesson we continue to consider the genealogy describing who went down to Egypt with Jacob. What is the purpose of this genealogy, and what are we to learn from it? What is the significance of the men in this list. Why is the narrator so focused on achieving the number of seventy? How does this group of people compare to those that come out of Egypt four hundred years later? What kind of a day do we live in, and why are our faithfulnesses important? What is so encouraging about Judah leading the family to Goshen? (47 min)

Keywords Jacob, Joseph, Genealogies

Genesis 46:1-18 In our passage for this study Jacob sets out for Egypt to see his son Joseph before he dies. But before he leaves Canaan, he stops at Beersheba and offers sacrifices to God. Why does God, who named him Israel, call him Jacob? What is significant about Beersheba to Jacob? How does Beersheba compare with Bethel? Why would Jacob be apprehensive about going to Egypt? What four promises does God make to Jacob about going to Egypt? Why does this passage stress so strongly what and who Jacob took to Egypt? We encounter another of the genealogies of Genesis in this chapter. What are some things we can learn from this genealogy? (63 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Beersheba, Bethel, Egypt

Genesis 45:16-28 In this week's passage Joseph's brothers are sent back to Canaan to tell their father Jacob the news about Joseph and to bring their families back to Egypt. This story provides us with striking parallels to the Gospel itself. Why is Pharaoh so pleased to hear of Joseph's brothers? What is Pharaoh's invitation to them? What is significant about the wagons of Egypt? How is Joseph's presentation of the garments typical of Christ? What words of admonition does Joseph give his brothers? Why is Jacob's reaction to the news about Joseph what it is? What does it take to revive Jacob and convince him that his son Joseph is still alive and is ruler over all Egypt? (52 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Jacob

Genesis 45:1-15 (pt 2) This lesson continues last week's lesson about Joseph's making known his identity to his brothers. What was Joseph's perspective on the things which had happened in his life? How did the "man" at Shechem figure into God's working in Joseph's life? What makes this particular passage so powerful to us? How is Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers so different from the forgiveness we often see in our experience? How can we learn to show the same kind of forgiveness? Do we even want to? What must have been the most wonderful thing in Joseph's message to his father? How did the brothers' submission turn out to be different from what they had expected, dreaded, and resisted? (61 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Jacob, Forgiveness

Genesis 45:1-18 (pt 1) In the first of two studies on this passage, we consider the remarkable event when Joseph made himself known to his brothers. Joseph has apparently been surprised by Judah's astonishing plea, and a swell of emotions overwhelms him. His announcement of who he actually is, however, is not welcome news to his brothers. Or is it? How do his brothers respond, and why? Why does Joseph ask what he already knows? What two things does Joseph specifically mention that have heretofore not been openly spoken of. Why must he speak these things? How does Joseph's view of reality make forgiveness possible? How might this encounter be similar to when we will first see Christ? What is the significance of the mention of a remnant? How is the deliverance God accomplishes great? Where are you in your personal "story of Joseph?" (53 min)

Keywords Joseph, Judah, Reconciliation

Genesis 44:18-34 Today's lesson includes the longest speech in Genesis: Judah's passionate and eloquent plea to Joseph on his father's behalf. How are Judah's words directed by the Holy Spirit to Joseph's heart? What experiences has Judah encountered in his life that have prepared him for this important moment? Why does Judah refer to Benjamin as a "little child" and as a "lad?" What is the entirety of Judah's speech to Joseph directed at accomplishing? What remarkable character qualities do we see in this man who once sold a brother into slavery? What does this passage teach us about intercession? How is Judah a type of the true Son of Judah? (50 min.)

Keywords Judah, Joseph, Benjamin, Jacob

Genesis 44:1-17 We have now reached the watershed event in the story of Joseph. In this passage we learn of Joseph's plan to reveal the true attitude of his brothers. Do they speak merely words of repentance, or are they really changed? What is the significance of the three things Joseph instructs his house steward to speak to his brothers? What is all this talk about Joseph's "divining cup?" How does the response of the brothers reveal how effective Joseph has been in his plan? What do we learn about the brothers when they load their donkeys and return to the city? How does Joseph's plan recreate the situation his brothers confronted at Dotham twenty two years earlier? Why does he do this? What is the significance of Judah's offer that they all be Joseph's slaves? How does Joseph protect Benjamin? (58 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Judah, Divination, Cup

Genesis 43:26-34 As Joseph arrives home for the noon feast planned for his brothers, they bring to him the present they have prepared. What is it about this present? Why is it mentioned repeatedly, only to fade into obscurity in the narrative? What is the significance of the brothers bowing before Joseph? How is it that something that was once so abhorrent to them they now do with such apparent ease? The brothers report that their father is well. Is he, really? Once Joseph overcomes his overwhelming emotions, the feasting begins. Why did Joseph seat the men according to their birth order? What must have been going through Joseph's mind as he feasted and drank with his brothers? (55 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Benjamin

Genesis 43:16-25 Joseph, seeing his brothers have returned with Benjamin, now puts into action his carefully measured plan. How does the house steward play into this, and what does he think of it? A dominant motif of the narrative is what Joseph knows and what his brothers don't know. What lesson can we learn from this? When the brothers are brought to Joseph's house, they are filled with dread. What is it they fear, and why are the apparently thinking so much about their donkeys? What is the unexpected word his brothers hear when finally at the threshold of their long festering dread? How is this a picture to us of our God? (48 min)

Keywords Joseph, Fear, Peace, Shalom

Genesis 43:1-15 Time is wasting. Jacob's intransigence about Benjamin has meant the family has already forgone two opportunities to secure more food from Egypt. Now Jacob wants his sons to go back, but still without dealing with the root problem. This time Judah steps up to deal with his father. How does Judah's leadership compare with Reuben's? What can we learn from this? What is it that finally breaks through Jacob's incapacity to act? What do we see in Judah's offer to his father? Is Jacob's surrender a response of more fatalistic despair, or is it actually a step towards faith? How do we know? What lesson does this hold for us about the life of faith? (58 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Reuben, Judah

Genesis 42:29-38 Joseph's brothers return home with the dreaded task of reporting to their father, Jacob, the ugly turn of events in Egypt. How will they attempt to soften the blow to the aged and frail man? Jacob's response to the news, and to the discovery that someone in Egypt is out to get them, triggers a despairing reaction from Jacob. Why does he blame his sons? What is our reaction when tragic events and bad news would overwhelm us? What is the answer to despair? Why does Reuben react as he does with his proposal? How do we respond when we get desperate? What is the answer to desperation? (53 min)

Keywords Jacob, Joseph, Benjamin, Reuben

Genesis 42:21-28 This passage is one of the most poignant passages in all of Scripture. It relates to us how Joseph's brothers come to the realization that they are now encountering the consequences of their long ago sin. Meanwhile, Joseph overhears their discussion. What, particularly, do his brothers’ consciences seem to trouble them with? This is an important point to the narrator, and has important implications to our own lives. Joseph responds to what he hears by weeping. Why does Joseph weep? Why, after hearing his brother's confession, does Joseph continue with his disguise and his plan? Why are his brothers so filled with fear upon discovering the money in one of their sacks? How has their sin distorted the brothers' perception of God's processes in their lives? (53 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Brothers, Regret, Repentance, Listening

Genesis 42:10-20 Having been accused of spying by Joseph in the passage we looked at last Sunday, his brothers rise to their own defense. Their defense consists of three assertions. Why do they expect these claims will sway the great Zaphenaph Peneah (Joseph)? Are the brothers truly honest men as they claim? How does their claim to integrity reflect our human natures? How does Joseph appear to his brothers? What plan does Joseph make to test his brothers? How and why does he alter his plan? What scenario is Joseph creating for his brothers, and what can we learn about our own testings from this? (62 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Benjamin, Dreams, Testing

Genesis 42:1-9 Resuming our study of the life of Joseph, we learn about the first encounter between Joseph and his ten estranged brothers. What is the contrast we see between the story of Joseph so far, and how we find the family of Jacob back in Canaan? What lesson has Jacob seemingly failed to learn? How is the journey of the brothers to Egypt a metaphor of Israel and the Messiah? How has Joseph changed since his brothers last saw him? How did he "disguise" himself? What was Joseph's motive in charging his brothers with spying? What is the significance of Joseph remembering his dreams? What does this tell us about his motives? (50 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Dreams, Benjamin, Brothers

Genesis 41:45-57 In this lesson we see the naturalization of Joseph as he is given an Egyptian name and an Egyptian wife. What is the significance of all the pairs of twos and repetitions in this narrative about Joseph? What are we to make of Joseph taking a woman as his wife who is the daughter of a pagan priest? What did Joseph mean by saying that he had "forgotten" all his father's household? What might this tell us about heaven? What is necessary to bear fruit in the land of our affliction? What was the great name that was spreading along the caravan routes to Egypt during this great world wide famine? (49 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Manasseh, Ephraim, Famine

Genesis 41:29-44 Joseph continues on with his interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, explaining the meaning of the cows and heads of grain. He then moves directly into advising Pharaoh of a course of action to take. Was Joseph being presumptuous in offering such advice apparently unsolicited? How was Joseph so ready with with wise advice to give to Pharaoh? What kinds of things do we learn about Joseph in this passage? Was Joseph being self-serving in describing the kind of person Pharaoh should look for? What was the response of Pharaoh's servants to Joseph's appointment? Of what other two figures in scripture is Joseph an illustration? (58 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Pharaoh, Dreams, Famine

Genesis 41:14-28 Joseph begins this day like any other day in prison, with no reason to believe it will be any different. Before the day is out he is standing in Pharaoh's court. What can we learn from the suddenness with which Joseph's circumstances changed? Joseph's reply to Pharaoh regarding his ability to interpret dreams reflects two important things about spiritual people exercising their spiritual gifts. What are they? How is Pharaoh's telling of his dreams different from how the narrator told them earlier in the chapter? What does this tell us about Pharaoh's frame of mind? What two factors does Joseph point out are the basis of his interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams? What is to be learned from the fact that God has spoken to Pharaoh? (61 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Dreams, Pharaoh

Genesis 41:1-14 After two years of having been forgotten by the chief cupbearer, at the age of 30 Joseph's situation suddenly takes a radical turn for the better. Over the past thirteen years, what things has Joseph been learning that will serve him well in his future? What is the most important quality has God been building into Joseph's life during these difficult years? What obvious symbolism do we note in Pharaoh's dream? Who were these "magicians" upon whom Pharaoh called for an interpretation? What was their training and skill? Why is their inability to interpret Pharaoh's dream significant? How was Joseph's ability to distinguish between the dreams of the two officials important? (59 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Pharaoh, Dreams, Interpretation

Genesis 40:16-23 We continue our study of Joseph and the dreams of the two Egyptian officials. What do we discover about the baker as he waits to tell his dream? What was wrong with the baker's understanding about messages and messengers? How was his dream similar to his companion’s? How was it different? What is remarkable about Joseph in his giving of this interpretation? How does this narrative serve as a metaphor of the righteous and the wicked in judgment? (60 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Dreams, Baker, Cupbearer

Genesis 40:1-15 Joseph, now in prison, encounters two high government officials who are thrown into prison with him. Why dose the narrative of this event stress that they were in prison "with" Joseph? How does Joseph conduct himself in this encounter with these two men? How do we treat the people with whom we have apparently chance encounters? How do the dreams of these two men compare and contrast with the other dreams in the Joseph narrative? Though Joseph is faithful to God in all his misfortune and suffering, yet we see he really does suffer and really does seek release. What is the place of lament in the experience of the child of God? What did Joseph want in his pleas to the cupbearer? What if God had granted him his request at this time? Why does God wait to answer our pleas in our laments? (66 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Dreams, Cupbearer, Lament

Genesis 39:11-23 The account of Joseph's temptation at the hand of Potiphar's wife continues. This is a life altering day in Joseph's life. How was he prepared for this day? To what extent did his master’s wife go to destroy Joseph? Why does the passage emphasize her "words?" How can we destroy people with our words? Joseph finds himself once again in a pit. Why does the narrator emphasize that Joseph was in the jail? What was special about the kindnesses Joseph received from the Lord while in prison? Who was the "second Joseph?" (58 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Potiphar, Prison

Genesis 39:1-10 In this lesson we resume our study of the story of Joseph. Yet this is not so much the story of Joseph as it is the story of the covenant God of Abraham keeping His promises. What is the narrator of these events careful to remind us about as we read of Joseph's "success" in Egypt? What did the presence of God with Joseph look like? What might it look like in our lives? What was Joseph's "success?" What was the effect of Joseph's success on his master? What reasons did Joseph give for refusing the advances of Potiphar's wife? How did Joseph manage to resist her continual temptings? What would Joseph's failure have meant for Potiphar's household? How do Joseph and Judah compare? (66 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Egypt, Potiphar, Success

Genesis 38:20-30 A substantial review of the previous study about Judah and Tamar (since we've had a two week break). We discover even more about Judah's spiritual decline. Why did Judah send Hirah to reclaim his pledge? Why was Judah so quick to relinquish his claim on his pledge? What was so significant about Judah's willingness to abandon his staff to a stranger and a prostitute? To whom does God entrust the protection of such an important token? What is the importance of Judah's statement about Tamar that she was "more righteous than I?" What is the great change that overtakes Judah upon the revelation that he is the father of Tamar's twins? How does this passage disclose the marvelous grace of God to both Judah and Tamar? (51 min.)

Keywords Judah, Tamar, Scepter

Genesis 38:1-19 This is another one of those very difficult passages in Genesis. Why does the author interrupt the story of Joseph to tell us about this seemingly unrelated incident with Judah? How does this passage reveal to us Judah's character. Why is that important? What was this whole thing about Onan fulfilling the "duty of a brother-in-law" by taking Tamar as a wife? What really was Onan's sin? What is this whole thing about levirate marriage all about? What did God think about it? What was Judah doing wrong with Tamar? How does this story fill us in on Israel's experience in Egypt? (53 min.)

Keywords Judah, Joseph, Tamar, Levirate Marriage

Genesis 37:12-36 The tragic story of the betrayal of Joseph by his own brothers. Two striking things about Joseph: his spirit of obedience and the distress of his soul. Why did Reuben act so heroically here? Consider all the overwhelming evil that occurs in this passage. If you could have prevented it all, would you have? Why didn't God? With all the evil that Joseph encounters, did God really love Joseph? If God is all powerful and all good, how could he allow such evil? Does such a God really exist? What awesome truth about God can we discover from all the evil in this world? (60 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Jacob, Judah, Evil

Genesis 37:5-11 Joseph is a dreamer. He has two dreams which appear to be of great significance. How did Joseph view those dreams? What are two reasons why Joseph was given those dreams? What did the Psalmist mean when he said God's word was "testing" Joseph? Why might this have been Joseph's greatest test? Why did Joseph tell his dreams to his brothers? What was it like growing up in a home where none of your ten older brothers could speak to you on "friendly terms?” How might this have influenced Joseph's actions? (50 min.)

Keywords Joseph, Dreams

Genesis 37:1-11 At the end of Esau's brief toledot we find a marked contrast between him and Jacob. Why do the unbelievers prosper while the person who lives by faith seems often to do so in vain? As we begin the toledot of Jacob and the story of Joseph, we find that God communicates differently than he did with the patriarchs. What is that difference? Why did Joseph benefit from the elevation he encountered at the hand of his father? How was Jacob’s favoritism harmful to the son he loved? What was the significance of the "varicolored" tunic he was given? (44 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Joseph, Dreams

Genesis 36:9-43 An entire toledot of Genesis is devoted to the descendants of Esau. In this passage we look at the second part of that toledot. What were the Children of Israel supposed to learn from this genealogy, and how are we to learn from it? What are some of the key names which might have some importance to our understanding of the redemptive history? What is important to see about the structure of this genealogy, and how does the narrator use that structure to communicate something important to us? What great lesson can we learn from the Edomites that has a bearing on our lives and our future? (58 min.)

Keywords Esau, Seir, Amalekites, Edom, Edomites

Genesis 36:1-8 This lesson includes a review of the toledots of Genesis and how they provide a structure and plan for the book. The toledot of Esau amounts to a short diversion from the chief plan of the book, yet it provides us with important information. What is the importance of this account? Why does the narrator stress that Esau "is Edom?" How does the seed of the woman differ from the seed of the serpent? What's wrong with the saying that "a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush?" What are the three wrong choices that Esau made? (56 min.)

Keywords Esau, Toledot, Seir, Birthright, Edom

Genesis 35:16-29 Jacob continues his journey back home to his father's house. While encamped near Migdal Eder (the Tower of the Flock) Reuben, his first born son, commits an atrocious act. What was the significance of Reuben's deed? Finally reunited with his father, Jacob is there when Isaac dies, and Jacob joins Esau, his once estranged brother, in burying him. On the journey to Migdal Eder, Rachel dies in giving birth to Jacob's twelfth son, Benjamin. What is the profound significance of this story about Rachel's travail and Benjamin's birth? How can we draw encouragement from it? (56 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Rachel, Bethlehem, Benjamin, Migdal Eder

Genesis 35:8-15 Why does our narrator bring up the death and burial of Deborah, of whom we know virtually nothing? A striking and important aspect of today's passage is the number of things which occur which have occurred before. What is the significance of all of the repetitions? Among these are Jacob's return to Bethel, even as Abraham returned to Bethel, God's second appearance to Jacob at Bethel, God's renaming of Jacob, and God’s restating again, for the twelfth time, the covenant promises. What are the lessons we can learn from Bethel that have application in our own experiences? (50 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Bethel, Covenant

Genesis 35:1-8 God uses the disasters at Shechem to move Jacob on to Bethel. Shechem was never intended to be a destination, only a portal to another place. What happens when we get stuck at Shechem, and why is it important that we move on to Bethel? How do we become like the world when we define our spirituality by how we are not like the world? What encouraging change do we see in Jacob in this part of his life? Do we really practice idolatry in our modern world, and if so, how? (57 min)

Keywords Jacob, Shechem, Idols, Bethel

Genesis 34:8-31 Shechem's rape of Jacob's daughter, Dinah, triggered a sequence of events which helped shape the future of the nation of Israel, and which provide us with important spiritual lessons for our lives today. What was enticing about the offer Hamor made to Jacob? Why was it perilous to Jacob? What was wrong with the counter offer made by Jacob's sons? How is their abuse of circumcision paralleled in our modern day? Why does scripture censure the retribution of Simeon and Levi, yet clearly condones the wars involved in the conquest of Canaan? How did God turn these disastrous circumstances into good for His purposes? (59 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Dinah, Simeon, Levi

Genesis 34:1-12 Instead of stopping only briefly at Shechem, Jacob spends many years there, with tragic consequences for his family. When Dinah goes out to visit the daughters of the land, she is taken and raped by the prince Shechem. What happens when we fail to obey God and more forward in our relationship with HIm? What are the interpretive flags that help us to understand what God is teaching us in this passage? Why is so little said of Jacob's reaction to the rape of his daughter? Why is so little said about the actual rape, but so much more said about the events the rape precipitated? Why is Jacob's passivity so dangerous? (63 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Dinah, Leah

Genesis 33:12-20 From last week's passage we consider the importance of Jacob owning his own wrongs he had committed against Esau. Then in today's passage we finally uncover the reason for Esau bringing 400 armed men to meet Jacob. Having now been reconciled, what are the assumptions that Esau makes which differ from how Jacob views things? What are the differences between Jacob and Esau? Where is Succoth, and why is that important to the story? How does Jacob finally come to Shechem? What is the significance of Shechem in the lives of Abraman and Jacob, and in the broader biblical narrative? What will we make of the Shechems in our lives? Why does Jacob name his altar El Elohe Israel? (50 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Esau, Reconciliation, Shechem

Genesis 33:1-11 With not a moment to rest, Jacob goes from his wrestling match with God to his encounter with Esau. He does not retreat or wait passively, but moves forward towards reconciliation. What is the significance of the arrangement of the mothers and children? How does Jacob's bowing and Esau's running work out? How have these two brothers changed, and what changed them? How can we preach a gospel of reconciliation and yet resist reconciling with those we've wronged or been wronged by? What did Jacob mean by saying that his encounter with Esau was like seeing the face of God? Why did Esau first refuse Jacob's gift, and then receive it? (56 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Esau, Reconciliation

Genesis 32:24-32 In this passage we read of a mysterious encounter Jacob has with a "man" on the night before he meets Esau. Why so much mystery surrounding this event? Eventually we discover who the man really is, but other mysteries remain. Why could God not prevail over Jacob? What was the significance of the crippling blow to Jacob's thigh? Once he can no longer wrestle the "man," to what does Jacob resort to secure the blessing he sought? What is the significance of God asking Jacob to declare his name? After a long night of fear and struggle, we find the sun rising on Jacob. A new man crosses at Penuel. (54 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Esau, Blessing

Genesis 32:13-23 After his desperate prayer to God for protection from his brother, Esau, Jacob sets about to prepare for meeting Esau. Was Jacob acting in faith or not? Why the massive present he assembled for his brother? Why did he stress to his servants to tell Esau that he was coming right behind them? Why does the narrator seem to stress that it is night? How must Esau have responded upon this constant arrival of Jacob's present? What was important to happen before Jacob could encounter God as he does in the following passage?

Keywords Jacob, Esau

Genesis 32:1-12 By the intervention of God, Jacob has escaped from one frightening prospect, the one presented by Laban. But now he must move forward, under God's command, to face an even greater fear, his brother Esau. What kind of changes have taken place in Jacob's heart that have prepared him for this meeting? What terrifying news does he receive from the messengers whom he sent to Esau. What can we learn from Jacob's prayer that can help us to pray well when we are confronted by our worst fears? (60 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Esau

Genesis 31:43-55 Two key themes in Genesis resurface in this passage: The two lines of mankind, and the idea of covenant. What are all the sets of twos we see in these verses, and what are they intended to show us? How is this passage crucial to the unfolding drama of God's people? What is the significance of Laban asking for a covenant with his own relative? What are some characteristics of the seed of the serpent? Why does Jacob erect a pillar, and what does it mean to himself or to Laban? How did Jacob come to to call his God the Fear of Isaac? What are the contrasting destinies of these two men? (59 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Laban, Covenant

Genesis 31:31-42 Jacob now answers Laban's charges as to why he slipped away unannounced and about the stolen idols. He invites Laban to search for his idols, which he does in a most thorough manner. What really is the point of this narrative? How must Jacob have felt in watching this intrusive search? What is so significant about what Rachel did in sitting on the idols? How did Jacob, in the heat of the moment manage to express his complaint in such an eloquent and poetic manner? What is the Fear of Isaac? How does Jacob's God compare with Laban's idols? (57 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Laban, Rachel, Idols

Genesis 31:17-30 It is time for Jacob to go home. God has finished the work He was doing in Jacob's life for twenty years in Paddan-aram. But Jacob cannot leave easily. His fear of what Laban will do causes him to act deceptively and leave secretly. Was this really necessary? What if you had been there to see Jacob cross the Euphrates River twenty years earlier? How would you have accessed Jacob, compared to this second crossing? Why does the narrator stress so emphatically Jacob's belongings? What were Laban's teraphim, and why did Rachel steal them? How were Jacob's and Rachel's actions paralleled by the narrator? How did the irony of Laban's teraphim being stolen escape his notice? (55 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Laban, Rachel

Genesis 31:1-16 Things take a turn for the worse in Jacob's relationship with Laban and his sons, and Jacob's situation becomes tenuous, even dangerous. How does God use our circumstances to direct us? What is the significance of God being "with" someone? What are the three reasons that Laban's wealth was transferred to Jacob? What part did Laban play in that transfer? What lesson can we learn from Rachel's and Leah's realization that they no longer had a portion or inheritance in their father's house? What, ultimately, will happen to all the riches of the world? (56 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Laban, Blessing, Bethel

Genesis 30:37-43 The Bible contains a number of very difficult passages to understand. This is one of them, and is difficult on several levels. What should we do when we encounter very difficult passages? What exactly was Jacob doing with all those rods and sheep and goats? Did what Jacob do have any affect on the outcome, and if so, how? We look at a number of puzzling cases in Scripture similar to this one with Jacob. What can we learn from all these examples of human devices? What relevance or application does this passage have to our lives today? (66 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Laban

Genesis 30:25-36 God "remembered" Rachel. What does that mean? Had He forgotten her? Rachel's son becomes central to the unfolding story about the Children of Israel. Jacob now enters into negotiations with Laban regarding his desire to return home, but does Jacob really have a home? How was Jacob's sojourn changed as a result of his encounter at Bethel. What does Jacob possess that Laban desperately wants? What exactly is the agreement that Jacob and Laban reach? What does Laban do as soon as the agreement is made? How do we respond when we are wronged or taken advantage of by others? How should we view things when that happens? (61 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Rachel, Laban

Genesis 30:1-24 The unfolding story of the birth of Jacob's sons continues. But Rachel is jealous of her sister, Leah, and Leah is jealous of her sister, Rachel. What are the results of discontentment and jealousy? What exactly is jealousy? How can we distinguish legitimate yearnings from discontentment? With whom are we really struggling when we struggle with others? What could Rachel have done for Leah? Is it reasonable to expect her to do that? What can we learn from this confusing and difficult story? (65 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Rachel, Leah

Genesis 29:21-35 Laban's plan to trick Jacob into marrying Leah instead of Rachel is very risky. So much could have gone wrong. How did he pull it off? Where was God in this, and why didn't He intervene? In a sudden moment, when least expected, Jacob's great anticipation and hope is shattered. Can any good come out of this? What is God doing in Jacob's life, in the future of Israel, and in Leah's life? Speaking of Leah, she was complicit in this scheme. Why? What is Jacob's attitude toward Leah, and was it justified? Why does Paul warn husbands not to be embittered towards their wives? What great good comes in Leah's life? How did she respond? (62 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Laban, Leah, Rachel

Genesis 29:13-20 As we proceed through our story about Jacob in Haran, we encounter continuously repeated references to the family relationship. Why is that? What does Jacob do during that first month he stays with Laban? What are the differences between Laban's two daughters, and how does that play into the unfolding events? Things finally seem to be going pretty well now for Jacob, and he is filled with hope and expectation. Why does God allow him to experience such hope and anticipation, only to allow the rug to be pulled out from under him? What is God doing? (58 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Rachel, Laban, Leah

Genesis 29:1-12 Having left his Bethel experience, Jacob travels on to arrive in the "land of the peoples of the east." Why is Haran uniquely referred to in this way in this passage? How will the experience of Bethel change Jacob, and what will it take? What kinds of things do we discover about Jacob's character in this account at the well? How does this account of the well compare and contrast with the earlier account in chapter 24 about Abraham's servant? Why is that important? What difference does it make whether or not we see God's hand in the things He does in our lives? (57 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Rachel, Bethel, Laban

Genesis 28:10-22 Jacob leaves Beersheba and heads to Haran, a fugitive from his brother's wrath. Putting yourself in Jacob's sandals, what would you be thinking about one hour out of Beersheba? Three days later he arrives at a nondescript place and lays down to sleep. What he encounters in his dream that night alters his own life and the history of Israel. What is the ultimate fulfillment of that dream? Whom does he encounter, and what is he promised? Why does he erect a memorial in this place? Will what happens this night influence him only for a time, or will it have a life long impact? Jacob came to this place a fugitive, but he leaves Bethel a pilgrim. What will it take for him to return to his family in peace and be reconciled to Esau? (62 min.)

Keywords Jacob, Esau, Bethel

Genesis 27:41-28:9 The wrong done to Esau leaves him with deep wounds and a festering bitterness. How he deals with it reveals him to be, like Cain, of the seed of the serpent. Rebekah's discovery of Esau's murderous intent leads her to take quick action. What are the two things from which Rebekah seeks to protect Jacob? Why does Rebekah tell Isaac that if Jacob marries a daughter of Canaan that her life will be nothing to her? How does Esau respond to the discovery of his father's displeasure? As an aside, to whom is the prophet referring when he speaks of God loving Jacob and hating Esau, and for what did God choose Jacob, and why is it important to know? (62 min.)

Keywords Isaac, Jacob, Rebekah, Esau, Exile

Genesis 27:30-41 It turns out to be a very close call as Jacob leaves his father's presence and Esau returns from the hunt. What is Scripture saying to us in recording this? When Isaac discovers he has been deceived by Jacob and given the blessing to Jacob instead of Esau, he begins trembling violently. What has upset Isaac so severely? Esau repeatedly in tears pleads with his father to bless him anyway. But each request is rebuffed with a more severe denial. Why? Hebrews 12 uses Esau's story as an illustration to us of a certain principle. What is it? How is what is at stake in Hebrews different from what is at stake in Genesis? What does it mean that Esau could find no room for repentance? (62 min)

Keywords Isaac, Jacob, Esau, Blessing

Genesis 27:18-29 An old blind father encounters the deceiving son. The picture is not a pretty one. Spiritual blind spots in our lives can have disastrous consequences. How is spiritual blindness different from other faults? How do we avoid spiritual blindness? The lies and deceptions roll off Jacob's tongue like water. By what sophistry does he justify such cold, calculated deception, especially of his father? All the parties in this event behave wrongly. So, what will the outcome be? We see a remarkable turn of events when Isaac prophesies the future, even the future of our salvation. (49 min.)

Keywords Isaac, Jacob, Blessing, Esau

Genesis 26:34-27:17 Returning to the story on the struggle between Esau and Jacob, we encounter the account of the stealing of the birthright from Esau. We find in this passage four different individuals who represent to us four ploys which Satan uses to counter God's spiritual purposes in our lives. Which one of these individuals am I most like? For what is the blindness of Isaac a metaphor? What were Rebekah's strength and weakness? What is wrong with Jacob's response to his mother's proposal. This was an urgent situation. What other options did Rebekah and Jacob have by which they may have prevented Isaac's impending blunder? (55 min)

Keywords Isaac, Rebekah, Esau, Jacob, Blessing, Birthright

Genesis 26:18-33 The account of the conflict between Isaac and the people of Gerar continues. As the herdsmen of Gerar continue to claim the wells Isaac's people dig, he moves on, eschewing conflict. Why does Isaac decline to fight for what seems rightfully his? Eventually Isaac ends up in a "broad place." How did God get him from Gerar to this broad place? Moving on from Rehoboth, he then goes to Beersheba. What is the significance of this place? Who does he encounter immediately upon his arrival? One wonders how Jacob and Esau would have reacted to this scene. Abimelech comes suing for peace. What influences Isaac's ultimate response? We consider again the significance of this whole chapter in the ongoing saga of Jacob and Esau. (36 min.)

Keywords Isaac, Abraham, Jacob, Esau, Blessing

Genesis 26:1-17 Our story line returns in this chapter to the story of Isaac. Why does the narrator interrupt his story of the conflict between Jacob and Esau to tell us these stories about their father Isaac? There is a striking theme in this chapter of the continuity between the lives of Isaac and his father Abraham. What are those continuities, and why are they important to our understanding? How did God want Isaac to think about his stay in the land of Gerar? Why is God’s reference to His oath so important to Isaac? How was it that Abraham so thoroughly obeyed God? Why did Isaac engage in the ruse concerning Rebekah? What precious gleaming gem of truth about Isaac and Rebekah do we find in this mud hole of his deception? How did the remarkable prosperity of Isaac affect his neighbors, the Philistines? Why did Isaac not stand his ground and insist on his rights? (62 min)

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Esau, Birthright, Blessing

Genesis 25:27-34 The twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah, born under such unusual circumstances, have now grown to young adulthood. They are strikingly different personalities, but far more importantly, they have dramatic differences in what they value. What influence might Abraham have had on his new grandsons? How did the favoritism of Isaac and Rebekah influence their sons? What was the nagging issue the stalked Jacob's mind as he grew up? What was he thinking about when Esau came in famished from the field? What, if any, was the distinction between the birthright and the blessing? How must the heart of God felt when Esau despised his birthright? Why is thankfulness so heavily stressed in Scripture? (56 min)

Keywords Jacob, Esau, Birthright

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

Genesis 24:12-28 Abraham's servant asks for God's help in finding a wife for Isaac. In doing so he asks God for a sign. What does God think about our asking for signs in seeking His will? What is the significance of the particular sign the servant selected? What did the servant discover about Rebekah by her response to his request for a drink? What do the characters in the narrative know at each step in the story? What things did Rebekah discover when she saw and heard the servant in worship? (64 min.)

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Will of God

Genesis 24:1-14 The aged Abraham has one very important task left to accomplish: to secure a wife for Isaac. What are some of the important things we will learn from this chapter? What are the qualities of the servant he enlists in this endeavor? Why is this endeavor so important? What are the indications of the solemn nature of the oath the servant is about to take? What are the two things a believer must consider when he or she is selecting a life mate? Why did Abraham's servant take so many things with him on his journey? (55 min.)

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah

Genesis 23:3-20 Abraham needs to secure a place to bury his wife. This encounter occupies virtually the entire chapter. Why is this so important? What is the cultural background to this chapter? Three areas to consider from this passage: Abraham's faith, Abraham and the world, and the importance of remembering. (26 min.)

Keywords Abraham, Sarah

Genesis 22:20-23:4 Abraham receives a report from Haran about his brother Nahor. When did Abraham receive this report, and how is it important to our unfolding story? Shortly thereafter we encounter the death of Abraham's wife, Sarah. It has been a remarkable life, but it ends as it always does, with death. Why? Abraham, the man of faith, mourns for his wife. Why? What is the chief thing about Abraham we will learn as he seeks a place to bury his wife?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah

Genesis 22:19-22 (part 2) Three important ways to look at this story of the Binding of Isaac. What were Isaac and Abraham each thinking as they watched the substitute ram being consumed on the altar? How is the Lord's promise to Abraham at Moriah different from the other several times He has given these promises. What does all of this have to do with you and me? How does Hebrews 6 help us understand this incident? What are the two sets of types we see in this account?

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Moriah

Genesis 22:9-19 Continuing our study of the "Binding of Isaac," we consider the contrast of the two figures walking together up that mountain in Moriah. What is the contrast of these two? How did this experience affect their relationship? Clearly we are to understand the greatness of Abraham's personal struggle and sacrifice, but what else is it clear that Abraham was thinking. At what point did Abraham consider his son to be dead? Fatalistic faith and pollyanna faith.

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Moriah

Genesis 22:1-8 We come now to the climax of the story of Abraham's life, what is sometimes called "The Binding Of Isaac." Abraham's happy existence in the fulfillment of God's promise is brutally interrupted by God's instruction to him to offer his son as a burnt offering on a distant mountain. What is God doing? Why does God identify the object of the burnt offering four different ways? What is the nature of our tests? Why does this narrative contain so many repetitions and seemingly unimportant details? What are three lessons to be learned from Abraham's struggle? How does this story relate to Jesus' words to Nicodemus in John 3?

Keywords Abraham, Isaac, Moriah

Genesis 21:22-34 Abraham has another encounter with Abimelech, the King of Gerar. How does this account advance the narrative of Abraham's life? Once again we see the importance of the idea of covenant. By the end of this passage Abraham has two tangible seals of God's promises to him, a small child and a hole in the ground. We reflect on the crucial places in Abraham's walk with God, and on the importance of place in his and our stories. What of the places in your life?

Keywords Abraham, Abimelech, Beersheba, Covenant

Genesis 21:8-21 In the middle of a celebratory feast, conflict arises as Isaac's older half-brother, Ishmael, makes sport his young sibling. What was Sarah's motivation for her seemingly harsh demand of Abraham? Why does God tell Abraham to listen to his wife? Why does he tell Abraham not to be distressed? Why is it so important to God that Ishmael have no part in the inheritance, and what is the relevance of that to us today? Why does Scripture call Isaac Abraham's "only begotten son?" What can we learn from Hagar's wandering in the wilderness of Beersheba?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Ishmael, Hagar

Genesis 21:1-8 At least five themes reveal themselves in this passage. Sarah, the role of God's Word, sonship, laughter, and impossibility. Sarah, long a seemingly incidental part of this story, is brought forcefully to center stage. What was the importance of Sarah’s faith to this unfolding story? God's promise and our reality. The contrast between the son of Abraham’s flesh and the son of Abraham’s faith. Naming your son "Laughter." Sarah says all who hear will laugh with her. Then she asks: Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Isaac

Genesis 20:8-18 So, exactly what did Abimelech do wrong? What was his sin? Abimelech considers the sin into which he's fallen to also be the sin of his kingdom. What is this thing about national sin? What ought to be our response to the sins of our nation and our leaders? Abraham's troubles here began with his prejudice. What is the nature of prejudice, and what forms does it take in our lives? How is Abraham like the Church?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Abimelech

Genesis 20:1-7 Our story returns now to Abraham, and we contemplate the significance of his travels to the Negev and on to Gerar. But Abraham, like us, is prone to compartmentalize his life. Why does he say that his wife is his sister? This has happened before, but how often have Abraham and Sarah carried out this deception? We learn an important new lesson about Abraham’s love and reverence for God when we consider a fear that has dogged him since he left Haran. We see what an awful mess Abraham has made of God’s promise, with no way to set things right. But God…

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Abimelech

Genesis 19:26-38 As Lot arrives safely in Zoar, his wife lingers behind, longing for her life in Sodom. What are the consequences? What does it matter to us? The important thing we need to know about Abraham's prayer for Lot. What about the Lots in our lives? It is a long way from Bethel to a cave in Zoar. It took Lot fifteen years to travel there.

Keywords Lot, Sodom, Abraham, Moab

Genesis 19:24, 25 Why did God destroy Sodom and Gomorrah and the other cities? There are some troubling questions about this whole event. Why didn’t God do the things in Sodom that He did in Capernaum, if, as Jesus said, it would have resulted in the cities not being destroyed? And since He didn’t do those things, was God really just in what he did? What was Capernaum's sin that was so much greater than the exceeding wickedness of Sodom? What does that mean for you and me?

Keywords Sodom, Lot, Abraham

Genesis 19:12-22 The urgency of the situation in Lot’s home intensifies. What about the sanctifying affect of the believer in and unequal yoke? What was it about Lot that made his sons-in-law think he was only joking? Where was Lot’s treasure and why did he hesitate? What was the difference between Lot’s request and Abraham’s that God preserve a city?

Keywords Lot, Sodom, Abraham

Genesis 19:1-11 The two angelic visitors arrive at the gate of the city of Sodom. They are greeted there by Abraham’s nephew, Lot. What were the real problems with Sodom and her sister cities? Lot, the Righteous? What is the significance of Lot sitting in the city gate? This is the beginning of the most terrible night in Lot’s life. How did he arrive at this point, having begun by following the promise in Abraham? What do we do when we’re left with no good choices?

Keywords Abraham, Lot, Sodom, Homosexuality

Genesis 18:16-33 As Abraham’s three visitors prepare to leave, God reveals to Abraham what he is intending to do with Sodom and Gomorrah. Why does God choose to reveal His plans to Abraham? What is the source of the outcry and why does God say that He will know if things are not as bad as the outcry? What really was Abraham’s concern that prompted him to enter into this involved negotiation with God. What was Abraham’s personal investment in God’s answer to his prayer?

Keywords Abraham, Sodom, Lot, Justice

Genesis 18:10-16 Sarah has finally heard, directly from the Lord, the marvelous promise. But what of the reality that has been Sarah’s world her whole life? What will win out in her heart, the past reality or the promise of God? How can one verse tell us two opposite things about Sarah’s faith? Does Sarah’s failure here doom her future and leave her outside of the covenant promise?

Keywords Sarah, Abraham, Faith, Doubt

Genesis 18:1-9 Abraham has another encounter with God. Who were these three strangers who visited him at his tent in Mamre? What is the significance of Mamre? Why was Abraham so hospitable to these three? God has a lot “on HIs plate,” can He really be bothered by someone little like you or me? Why does Scripture record such detail about Abraham’s preparations? Why did these visitors ask about Sarah’s whereabouts?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Hospitality

Genesis 17:15-27 Now we discover the place Sarai is to play in God's great covenant promises to Abraham. God gives to Sarai a new name, and prohibits Abraham from using her old name. Why? Complications appear from previous carnal choices. How will Abraham persuade all his men to obey God's instructions?

Keywords Sarah, Abraham, Isaac, Circumcision

Genesis 17:4-14 Four elements of God’s covenant promise to Abram, and their significance in God’s purpose. God gives to Abram a new name. Why? What is God really doing in this Covenant? What is this circumcision thing really all about?

Keywords Abraham, Covenant, Circumcision

Genesis 17:1-3 Three new names, signifying God’s faithfulness and abiliity to carry out His covenant with Abraham. Why does God restate here the covenant which He has already made with Abram? (Audio interference for the first 18 minutes of this recording.)

Keywords Abraham, Elohim, Covenant

Genesis 16:13-16 Hagar, who has grown up worshiping the gods of Egypt, encounters the Living God of Abram. How will she respond when she discovers that God has always had His eye on her? (Apologies for inferior audio quality.)

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishamael

Genesis 16:7-12 Things are spinning out of control for everyone involved. Now Hagar, in an act of utter desperation, flees from Sarai. But she soon discovers that while she could hide from her mistress, yet God’s eyes are ever upon her. This turns out to be wonderful news for Hagar, as she discovers that He has been paying attention to all her suffering.

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishamael

Genesis 16:4-7 In using a culturally accepted solution to his problem, Abram fails to exhibit that difference that makes others notice the greatness of his God. What happens when we try to take control of our lives from God?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishamael

Genesis 16:1-3 Discouraged that she is apparently excluded from God’s promise to Abram, Sarai offers her husband a solution to their problem. Both of them fail to see that, though “everybody’s doing it,” it is a deceptive option fraught with complications.

Keywords Abraham, Hagar, Sarah

Genesis 15:7-21 How can Abram know that God’s long delayed promise will ever be fulfilled? In answer to Abram’s questioning God provides a stunning answer. Abram will become a child of the Almighty by covenant. But first must come the Bloody Alley.

Keywords Abraham, Covenant

Genesis 15:1-6 Why was it necessary for Abram to wait twenty-five years to receive God’s promise? What does it take before the promise of God can resonate in our hearts? What was Abraham thinking about all those years? This is a watershed event in the life of Abraham. Finally, God considers him to be righteous. Why?

Keywords Abraham, Faith, Rigtheousness

Genesis 14:21-15:3 What can we learn from Abram about our rights and when we should exercise them? Abram lets go of one of the best chances he has to ensure the realization of the promise in his life. An introduction to a watershed event in Abram’s life which serves as a paradigm for all who would come to God.

Keywords Abraham, Faith, Rights, Doubt

Genesis 14:17-24 Who is this man Melchizedek and why does Abram pay a tithe to him? From what did Abram pay that tithe, and what did the King of Sodom think about that? A vasal always pays tribute to his suzerain lord. The tithe’s foundation in covenant faithfulness.

Keywords Abraham, Covenant, Melchizedek, Sodom, Tithe, Priesthood

Genesis 14:1-16 Four kings of Mesopotamia go to war against the five kings of the Pentapolis. Abram mobilizes his men to rescue his nephew Lot and his family. This is a battle in the ongoing war between the Seed of the Woman and the Seed of the Serpent. What is the real issue of this story?

Keywords Abraham, Covenant, Sodom, Mesopotamia, Transjordan

Genesis 13 After a time of spiritual failure, Abram returns to the place where he first called on the Name of the Lord. Sometimes we need to return to our Bethel. After Abram and Lot are separated, God renews His promise to Abram.

Keywords Abraham, Lot, Bethel, Promise, Worship

Genesis 12:10-20 In the face of a severe famine in Canaan, Abram chooses to go to Egypt. Was Abram acting outside of God’s direction for his life? Abram’s forgetting of God’s promises to him causes him to put his own wife in peril. Will God abandon Abram in this hour of Abram’s faithlessness.

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Egypt, Faith, Doubt

Genesis 12:4-9 Abram leaves Haran and journeys to Canaan. What happens in someone’s life and actions when he truly believes God? Where does Sarai fit into this story of Abram’s faith? What is the difference between someone who goes out in faith and the one who does not? How is great faith measured? When the promise of God shifts our reality.

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Canaan, Faith, Promise

Genesis 12:1-3 Abram learns that his life is part of a much greater story, one that will be told for generations to come. What did God call Abram to leave? What is it like to have to move when you don’t know where God is leading you? Seven remarkable promises for a very ordinary man. Why does God bless Abram?

Keywords Abraham, Sarah, Canaan, Faith, Promise, Blessing

Genesis 11:10-32 The Righteous Line is considered from Shem to Terah. What was it like for Abram to grow up in Terah’s household in the city of Ur? How did Abram learn about the true God and His redemptive plan? But Sarai, Abram’s wife is barren. How could he ever be a part of God’s plan? Building the habits of faith.

Keywords Abraham, Terah, Shem, Sarah, Faith

Genesis 11:1-9 More than a story about the beginning of multiple languages, this is a turning point in redemptive history. Why does God confuse the languages? The symbolism of east in Scripture.

Keywords Babel, Language, Shinar

Genesis 10 God gave the Table of Nations to us for a reason. Why is Israel not in the Table of Nations? Why did God put the nations where He did? Do we have a responsibility to these many nations? Who is this man Nimrod?

Keywords Nations, Babel, Isarael, Nimrod

Genesis 9:8-28 God establishes a covenant with Noah and all living creatures. The purpose of the rainbow. Who is reminded by this sign in the sky? The sign of Communion. Noah’s failure and its affect on his son Ham.

Keywords Noah, Ham, Covenant, Rainbow, Sensuality

Genesis 9:1-8 God blesses Noah and his descendants, as he did with Adam and Eve. He grants permission for mankind to eat meat, nevertheless the value of life is strongly emphasized. A new dispensation or administration. The Image of God.

Keywords Noah, Dispensation, Image of God, Capital Punishment

Genesis 8 Waiting to move until God says to move. What makes a sacrifice a sacrifice? What did God think about Noah’s sacrifice? God says, “Never again.” Noah comforts God in His grief.

Keywords Noah, Remembering, Covenant, Ark, Sacrifice

Genesis 7 Why do we as adults study the account of the Flood? Why all the repetitions in the Flood account, and how should we read them? Types and antitypes in Scripture. God’s provision for our obedience. Noah’s faith. Are you in the Ark?

Keywords Noah, Flood, Ark

Genesis 7 Introductory considerations about Noah’s flood. Skeptics attacks on Genesis and the Flood. Three things that demonstrate the Flood was real and world-wide. Science and scripture. Uniformitarianism and catastrophism. Why build an ark?

Keywords Noah, Flood, Ark

Genesis 6:9-22 What were the days of Noah like? The contrast between the condition of the world and the beauty of God’s creation. God knows how to deliver the righteous. God’s use of covenants and fictive kinships. (Apologies for inferior audio quality.)

Keywords Noah, Repentance, Nature of God

Genesis 6:4-8 The beauty of God’s creation is devastated by man and his sin. What does it mean that God was sorry or repented that he had made man? How is this idea foundational to the Gospel we preach? God’s eternality and personhood. The comforting of God.

Keywords Noah, Repentance, Nature of God, Comfort

Genesis 6:1-3 The Children of Israel needed to have their worldview purified and reordered. Who are the Sons of God? What happens when Christians marry outside of the Faith? The two things which led to the corruption of the world and the Flood. When God’s patience runs out.

Keywords Sons of God, Marriage, Judgment

Genesis 5:21-32 Walking in intimate fellowship with God. How walking with God differs from one person to the next. Enmity between the righteous and unrighteous line. The significance of Methuselah. Through Noah comes rest from the curse.

Keywords Enoch, Methusaleh, Noah, Walking with God

Genesis 5:1-24 Why understanding the patriarchal-tribalism of the ancient world is essential to understand Genesis. The parallels between Adam and God. Discovering who is our Patriarch and why it matters. The transmission of the story of the Fall and the Promise of the Seed

Keywords Genealogies

Genesis 5 Understanding genealogies in Scripture and their purpose. Fluidity and telescoping in ancient genealogies. Following the Righteous Line.

Keywords Genealogies

Genesis 4:16-26 Cain’s outrage at God and God’s warning. The problem is not circumstances but a failure to do well. The slippery slope of sin. Loosing a sense of God’s presence. A land of wandering.

Keywords Cain, Abel, Sin, Genealogies, Consequences

Genesis 4:1-15 Why did the Lord record the story of Cain and Abel? Enmity between the two seeds. Independence from God. What was the difference between the two offerings? What was it that God regarded in Abel’s offering? Why God wants our best? Faith vs. works.

Keywords Cain, Abel, Offering, Worship, Faith

Genesis 3:16-24 The Seed of the Serpent and the Seed of the Woman. Mandates for mankind. The woman’s desire and the man’s mastery. The hardship of dominion over creation. The triumph of Grace in the consequences of sin. Adam’s transformation.

Keywords Adam, Eve, Seed, Serpent, Fall, Sin, Grace

Genesis 3:9-15 The subjection of creation to futility. What is the impact of my sin? Why did Adam hide from God? The process of discovery. Blaming others and blaming God. Why did God curse the serpent? (Apologies for inferior audio quality.)

Keywords Adam, Eve, Fall, Serpent, Seed

Genesis 3:1-8 The contrast between the Serpent’s craftiness and the innocence of Adam and Eve. The suggestion of God’s unreasonableness and pettiness? The significance of nakedness. How did Adam fail? The universe wide spread of the curse. (Apologies for inferior audio quality.)

Keywords Adam, Eve, Fall, Tree, Serpent

Genesis 2:15-25 Why did God place the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden? The Tree of Life. God sees something that is not good. How Adam discovered his great need. The glorious presentation of the Woman.

Keywords Adam, Eve, Tree, Evil, Creation

Genesis 2:4-15 The first “toledot” of Genesis. The difference between the first two chapters of Genesis. How the world used to be. How did we get into the human predicament? The two components in the creation of man. When God created Paradise. When God brought Adam to the Garden.

Keywords Adam, Eve, Tree, Evil, Creation

Genesis 1:26-2:3 The point of Creation. Who is the “Us” in this passage? Three categories of the image of God in man. The breath of God. Dominion and the image of God. Why did God rest? The day of Sabbath and what it means.

Keywords Creation, Man, Image of God

Genesis 1:6-25 The time and purpose for the writing of the creation account. Why the account of creation is important to us. The creation account as a polemic. From formless and void to form and full.

Keywords Genesis, Creation, Kingdom of God

Genesis 1:2-5 The relationship of verse two to verse one. The Gap theory of creation. What are the “days” of creation? The first act of creation. The philosophy behind our view of the creation account. God’s value of the process.

Keywords Genesis, Creation, Days

Genesis 1:1 Introduction to Genesis. The stories of Genesis for an adult. The toledots of Genesis. Beauty in the writing of Genesis. The themes of Genesis. What does “In the beginning” mean? Our God, the God of creation. Exnihilo—Out of nothing.

Keywords Genesis, Creation, Toledot, Exnihilo