CONTINUING Genesis
Today’s Bulletin
Genesis 25:19-34
19 These are the generations of Isaac, Abraham’s son: Abraham fathered Isaac, 20 and Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean of Paddan-aram, the sister of Laban the Aramean, to be his wife. 21 And Isaac prayed to the Lord for his wife, because she was barren. And the Lord granted his prayer, and Rebekah his wife conceived. 22 The children struggled together within her, and she said, “If it is thus, why is this happening to me?” So she went to inquire of the Lord. 23 And the Lord said to her,
“Two nations are in your womb,
and two peoples from within you shall be divided;
the one shall be stronger than the other,
the older shall serve the younger.”
24 When her days to give birth were completed, behold, there were twins in her womb. 25 The first came out red, all his body like a hairy cloak, so they called his name Esau. 26 Afterward his brother came out with his hand holding Esau’s heel, so his name was called Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when she bore them.
27 When the boys grew up, Esau was a skillful hunter, a man of the field, while Jacob was a quiet man, dwelling in tents. 28 Isaac loved Esau because he ate of his game, but Rebekah loved Jacob.
29 Once when Jacob was cooking stew, Esau came in from the field, and he was exhausted. 30 And Esau said to Jacob, “Let me eat some of that red stew, for I am exhausted!” (Therefore his name was called Edom.) 31 Jacob said, “Sell me your birthright now.” 32 Esau said, “I am about to die; of what use is a birthright to me?” 33 Jacob said, “Swear to me now.” So he swore to him and sold his birthright to Jacob. 34 Then Jacob gave Esau bread and lentil stew, and he ate and drank and rose and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright.
Sermon Discussion questions
The Autonomy of The Lord, THe CHoice of Man (Genesis 25:19-34)
Ice Breaker: Esau traded his birthright for a bowl of stew. Have you ever made a trade or deal that you later regretted?
This Week Specific
God’s Sovereignty in Our Lives: Isaac and Rebekah faced 20 years of barrenness before God granted them children. How does their persistence in prayer challenge the way you respond to waiting on God? What’s one area in your life—family, work, school—where you need to trust God’s timing more?
Prayer in Marriage and Relationships: Isaac prayed for his wife, and they sought the Lord together. If you’re married, what does it look like to pray with and for your spouse? If you’re single, how can you cultivate a habit of praying for your future family or for those closest to you?
Sibling Rivalry and Family Dynamics: Jacob and Esau's struggle began in the womb and continued into adulthood. How have you seen favoritism, rivalry, or conflict affect your family or friendships? What biblical principles can help us navigate family tensions in a way that honors God?
God’s Grace, Not Our Merit: God chose Jacob over Esau before they were even born, showing that His grace is not based on our works. How does this truth affect the way you view your salvation? How does it shape how you treat others who may seem “undeserving” of God’s grace?
Decision-Making and Immediate Gratification: Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of stew, prioritizing temporary pleasure over lasting blessing. Where in your life are you tempted to trade something of great value for short-term satisfaction? How can you develop wisdom to prioritize eternal things over immediate desires?
God’s Purpose in Your Story: The story of Jacob and Esau is part of the larger story of God’s redemptive plan. How does seeing your faith as part of a bigger “origin story” (God’s people, the Church) change how you approach your daily life?
Living as God’s Chosen People: As Christians, we are grafted into God’s family by grace. How does knowing that your identity is rooted in God’s choice impact how you live at work, school, or in your community? What’s one practical way you can reflect your calling this week?
Weekly Questions
What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?
What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?
How can this group pray for you this week?