i. to study the absoluteness of Jacob’s faith in the God of his fathers,
ii.to examine the godly approach of Jacob in conflict resolution and
iii.to discuss the Jacob’s persistence on blessings.
Jacob was a controversial biblical hero of faith. However, we shall study the aspect of his godly faith in the Almighty God. After his exit from home, Jacob had an encounter with the Almighty God of Abraham and Isaac (Gen 28:13). Heeding the command of this God (Gen 31:3,13), he resigned his employment with Laban to return home and serve the God of his fathers. (Gen 30:29-30). His manner of resolving the conflict between him and his brother Esau, his persistence in receiving the best from people and God, and blessing his children in his old age are good examples for us in our Christian race.
1. From our Bible passage today, enumerate the faith of Jacob as attested to in Gen 32:9-12. What can we learn from these, especially in verses 10-11?
2. Analyse the method of Jacob in resolving the conflict between him and Esau his brother Gen 32:13-20. What was the result in Gen 33:1-4? What are the lessons for us in our Christian race? Matt 5:23-26.
3. Discuss the absoluteness of Jacob’s faith in Gen 35:1-4. How can we apply that in our home? Eph. 6:4
4. Differentiate between the prayerful blessings of Jacob to his children in Gen 48:13-16 and his prophetic utterances to them in Gen 49:2-10. What lessons can we draw from this as children of God?
As Jacob lived by the faith of his fathers. In like manner, our parents and godparents handed over faith to us. We must make sure we absolutely hand the same over to our children and coming generation.
Jacob serves his fathers’ God; are your children serving your God?
Gen. 35:2 "Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments.".