Today’s passage: Genesis 27:1-29
Helpful thoughts:
- Isaac intended to give the blessing to Esau, his firstborn and favorite son.
- The language of the blessing was intended to carry on the Abrahamic promises (Peoples and nations bowing down, blessings and cursings).
- The blessing was intended to make Esau the leader of the family.
- Rebekah hears Isaac’s intent, devises a scheme, and executes the plan. Jacob is not the only deceiver in this narrative.
- There are parallels in the actions and character of Isaac and Esau, as well as Rebekah and Jacob.
- Isaac wanted this blessing to go to Esau. But God had already determined and chosen Jacob.
Questions to consider:
- What similarities can we find between Isaac and Esau? How did they make decisions? How were they driven by desires like food?
- What similarities can we find between Rachel and Jacob? How did they problem solve? How did they use their loved ones shortcomings to get what they wanted?
- Who now has the birthright and the blessing (Both of which normally given to the first born)? Did Jacob have to do what he did to get them if God had already decreed the promise was his?