Genesis 28:1-9 – A Command and a Blessing
Jacob and Rebekah’s lies have resulted in pain, anger, envy, hatred, and now a heart-breaking separation as Jacob must say goodbye to his family to escape his brother’s murderous intent and find a godly wife. Whenever we take matters into our own hands and don’t wait for God’s time and God’s way, the result will be pain, anxiety, grief, and sadness.
Isaac sends Jacob on his way with a blessing and a command. Jacob is commanded not to marry an unbelieving Canaanite woman but to go find a wife among the believers in Rebekah’s family. This idea that a Christian should not marry a non-Christian is emphasised by Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:14. Isaac then asks God to bless Jacob. This blessing is the blessing of Abraham, and it contains two great promises. The first is a promise of many children and descendants. Through Jacob will come the Messiah, and the Messiah, Jesus Christ, will bring together different peoples together as a community in the Church. The second promise is the promise of an inheritance for Jacob’s descendants. This isn’t just the promised land of Canaan, but it looks ahead to the promise of a heavenly inheritance for those true spiritual children of Jacob who believe in Jesus Christ.
Questions
- What is the result of Jacob’s lies?
- Where is he sent to find a wife?
- What are the promises given to Jacob?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks that God always keeps His promises.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters