|
|
GENESIS Part 3-THE GOD OF ISAAC
Recap
In these Group Studies of Genesis,we have four parts. In the first part,eleven chapters centre on the inside story of the origins of everything. One session was not long enough, but we saw its key factor as in 'Relationships'. In the second part, the Bible word for committed relationships is 'Covenant'. Genesis Chapter 12 onwards is the story of how God began the long replacement process of what our pride had destroyed - aiming at something even better! Abraham was the first in the long line of people called to be in a special relationship with God and moving towards a special Kingdom (Christians see the completion of the process in the finished work of Christ).
Next in line was Isaac,who seems to many to be merely a link in a long chain. Nevertheless,God identified Himself as "The God of Abraham and of Isaac ...".
Psychoanalysis
Psychologists have a field day examining Isaac.Born late - extraordinarily. Doted on excessively by aged parents, then being almost killed as a sacrifice by his beloved father ...(Genesis Chapter 22).Imagine what effect this must have had on Isaac? He was preferred over his half brother Ishmael and seemed preoccupied with digging wells and building altars! Perpetually awestruck!
Romance
Having pre-selected one of the group to study Genesis Chapter 24, they should then tell it in his or her own words. It's a terrific love story!
The Two Sons
Read together Genesis Chapter 25 verses 19 to 34 and, together, ask whether family rivalries are always there at birth?
Like Father, Like Son
Compare Isaac's behaviour and cowardice (Genesis Chapter 26) with father's earlier ordeal (Genesis Chapter 20).
Gazumped
When Isaac was old and blind (and too fond of food), he was deceived by Jacob, so that the all-important lifeline of blessing went through Jacob and not Esau as Isaac had intended (Genesis Chapter 27).
Question - Why could not Isaac simply have revoked and cancelled the earlier blessing? Do you think that it was because the all-important 'God-word' had been enacted, unleashed like an arrow on its unstoppable way?
Discussion
From Chapters 21 to 26, how would you assess the character of Isaac?
Puzzle
Was the 'deception' in transmitting the line of blessing part of God's plan?
Next session we will examine the God of Jacob. Make sure you have time for unhurried prayer now.
Optional preparation for next session
Read Genesis, Chapter 27 verse 41 to Chapter 28 verse 9.
Top of Page
|
|
|
|
