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 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