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Jacob's
Ladder
And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, the top of it reaching to heaven; and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. Genesis 28:12 The story of Jacob's dream is found in Genesis 28:10-22. Jacob is son of Isaac and Rebekah, twin brother to Esau, grandson of Abraham. Jacob's birth (Genesis 25:19-28) Named Jacob: he supplants, or he takes by the heel As a young man (Genesis 25:29-34) Brotherly love? A father's blessing (Genesis 27:1-40) Who manipulates the outcome? Looking for a wife (Genesis 27:41-28:9) Who is in control? What kind of person is Jacob? Esau? Isaac? Rebekah? Do they surprise you? Jacob's dream (Genesis 28:10-22) How do you think he feels? What is Jacob thinking as he begins this journey? First time Jacob appears by himself, a new beginning in the story. God transforms an ordinary stone and an ordinary place. Ladder: stairway or ramp, no specific purpose for angels (messengers). God speaks directly to Jacob, giving a blessing, fulfilling wish of Isaac, noted prior to Jacob's departure. Promises God's direct presence (even more than Isaac asked), a connection between heaven and earth. God confirms Jacob's gaining of birthright and blessing. (What is God thinking?) What does God promise? What does Jacob add? Beth-el: house of God. Jacob interprets dream. He knows God is with him. Only mention of God by Jacob prior to this is Genesis 27:20, in what context? What do you think of this? Jacob makes the ordinary sacred, and creates a public witness to his experience. Jacob makes a vow, repeating what god has already promised as a condition. Not a bargain, but a claiming of promise and dependence on God's faithfulness. Jacob's marriage (Genesis 29:1-35) The supplanter meets a worthy opponent. Jacob returns a second time to dream place 20 years later (Genesis 32:1-2). As he travels back to Canaan, he anticipates meeting Esau again. Jacob sends presents to appease him. Before meeting Esau, Jacob wrestles an angel (God) and is renamed Israel (Genesis 32:22-32). Notice Jacob demands a blessing. Check out verse 28, Jacob is rewarded for his behavior? (What is God thinking) |
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