Romans 11:11-15 Understanding now that, except for a small remnant, Israel as a whole has refused the Gospel and been hardened, another question arises. Has Israel's stumbling over the Stumbling Stone been a total falling from which there will never be a recovery? It is this question Paul addresses in the verses in this lesson. Paul's emphatic response is negative, but what is the basis for his confidence that they have not permanently fallen? Why does Paul speak of the Gentles experiencing salvation due to Israel's transgression? What does Paul expect the Gentiles' salvation to do to the Jews? How is Paul using the idea of jealousy here? What two aspects of Israel's stumbling does Paul mention? What is the impact of these two aspects? Why does Paul make a point that he is addressing himself to Gentiles in these verses? What is the rejection and acceptance that he speaks of here? What is the "life from the dead" that he refers to? What is the wonderful future that we can expect for Israel, and why does it matter to Gentile believers? (54 min)

Keywords Jealously, Jews, Gentiles, Reconciliation, Remnant

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 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