Origin Stories: Jacob and Esau
This series will explore familiar stories and people in the opening books of the Bible, asking these primary questions: What do these stories tell us about God? What do they tell us about humanity? What can we learn about our relationship with God?
1.Read Genesis 25:19-28. Discuss the early warning signs of the family dysfunction to come among the sons of Isaac and Rebekah, Esau and Jacob. Do you notice any similarities between other brothers in Genesis?
2. What’s in a name? We’re learning that words, names and blessings in particular, were very important to people who lived in the Ancient Near East. Talk about what role words have to play in this story.
3. Read Genesis 25:29-34. Why would Esau trade his birthright for stew? What do you think this tells us about Esau (other than the fact that he was hungry)? What are your thoughts on Jacob in this scene? Was he being deceitful, or just shrewd?
4. Read Hebrews 12:16-17 in The Message. What areas in your life you are most prone to the “Esau syndrome.” What in this area is most important? How can you trust in God’s provision for you and your needs so you can stay focused on what is most important?
5. Review Genesis 27. If you have time, read the entire chapter (verses 1-46). If not, review the major points, but notice the level of detail in this story.
Choose a few of these topics from this chapter to discuss:
· Family dynamics and dysfunction(!)
· The transfer of blessings (and curses) from generation to generation
· God’s way of working through sin and shame in God’s chosen family
6. Close with this reminder from Jarm’s sermon:
“So much of what we cling to in this life will end up in the landfill when we are gone – but the future God has for us is beyond the reach of change and decay, and he is holding it for us. This is why we go back to that main lesson Esau teaches us: Don’t trade what you want most for something you want now.”
How can you help each other, in community, to stay focused on what is most important?
