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GENESIS Part 4-THE GOD OF JACOB
THE GAZUMPER
Radical Recap
Genesis Part I-The first eleven Chapters
The making of this world and humankind
Genesis Part II-Chapters 12 to 50
The remaking of the world of humankind.This remaking is by a 'personal' God encountering people and beginning to plant and grow a working model of his Kingdom. (For Christians, the process continues in Christ).
Input
The God of Jacob and of Joseph
Chapters 25 to 50.The name Jacob means 'embezzler' or 'gazumper' since he took what was intended for his twin brother by deceit.If none of this was accidental, can you say why?(Chapter 25 verses 19 to 28.Chat it through).
Three Massive Encounters
1. Young Jacob's first meeting with God.He was on the way to his Uncle Laban's property up north when he had a supernatural experience (Chapter 28). In this,God reveals and identifies Himself and gives promises and establishes his covenant with Jacob.
Discussion Point-(Set a time limit for this)
Question- Do early religious experiences lastingly shape peoples' lives today?
2. Middle aged Jacob's Second Encounter.Piece together the story of Jacob's life with Uncle Leban and family, noting:
His love for Rachael (Chapter 29 verses 1 to 14)
Laban's craftiness in domestic and business matters and its effects(Chapter 29 verses 15 to 30)
'Escape' which ends well, despite the revealing picture of stolen idols(Chapter 31).
Viewpoint
Had Jacob's 20-year stay with his mother's family shaped him into a 'Smart Alec'? (Chapter 31).
3. Jacob Crosses Over.
His plans were to 'soften up' his fierce brother Esau by despatching ahead several waves of gifts .... (Chapter 32 verses 1 to 23)
Then alone, Jacob is again encountered by a theophany (Chapter 32 verses 24 to 31) and notice:
The mysterious wrestler refuses to give his name. This encounter left its mark on Jacob's body.This was not a subjective thing. The embezzler (Jacob) was changed to 'personal encounter with God' (Israel). It was now a changed man who happily met his brother Esau. It was a blessing, not a battle.Nevertheless, the sons of Israel were still in need of personal change.(Chapter 34).
Family Favourites
Son Joseph (Chapter 37 verse 3).
Recall together briefly the well-rehearsed story of Joseph and his coat of many colours:
The treachery of the brothers
The deportation to Egypt
The unjust imprisonment
His rise to power and the eventual family reunion then security and success in Egypt.Israel blesses Joseph's son (Chapter 48) and his 12 sons (Chapter 49).
The clans,or tribes,of Israel lived and prospered in Egypt for many years and grew in number until things changed-and that is where the next book begins-Exodus.
If your group makes room for prayer time, why not use tonight's underlying theme the subject of your prayers-all family relationships.Specify the real needs.
Optional preparation for next session
Speed read Exodus Chapters 1 to 18.
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