Sermon in Old Testament Heroes series. Jacob.
Genesis 32:24-31
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JACOB: FROM DECEIVER TO BELIEVER
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I. Where have all our heroes gone?
II. Circular, three-part movement of Jacob’s life.
A. Jacob’s early life in parent’s home. Genesis 25-28
1) Divine encounter: Prophetic oracle to Rebekah. 25:23
2) Conflict: Family discord.
a) Got name from grabbing brother’s heel at birth. 25:26
b) Grasps birthright from oldest son Esau. 25:29-34
c) Steals blessing by deception of sheep skin. 27:12-30
B. Initiation during twenty year exile in Haran. Genesis 29-31
1) Divine encounter: Vision at Bethel. 28:11-17
2) Conflict: Struggles with Laban.
C. Return to land of his birth. Genesis 32-33
1) Divine encounter: Wrestling with God at Jabbok. 32:22-32
2) Conflict: Encounter with Esau, and with God.
3) Climax of reconcilation. 33:4
III. Our schemes or God’s promises?
A. Many people strive in life.
B. Conflicts always come, but they can be occasions for growth.
C. God is a revealing God.
(Adapted from Leland Ryken, “The Literature of the Bible,” pp. 53ff)
#2402
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