Grace for Every Moment - Genesis
Read the summary of the Sunday sermon: Through the life of Jacob and his family, we see that God is present in every season. God is present in the good and the bad that come our way, and in everything, he is mighty and trustworthy. His grace for every moment allows us to trust him and be part of his work in this world.
Read: Genesis 35:1-4, 9-19
Discussion Questions:
Why do you think it is significant that God changes Jacob’s name to Israel?
Why is it important that Jacob built an altar to God in Bethel? Hint: Think back to Jacob’s dream in Genesis 28:10-22.
How does this story showcase God’s faithfulness across generations?
Do you think there is anything significant about Esau’s descendants being listed in Genesis 36?
Think back to the times in your life where you met God in a clear way. What are some ways that we, like Jacob, can commemorate these moments in our lives?
When God changes someone’s name the Bible, it is also often paired with a change of identity. Take some time with the group to share aspects of our new identity in Christ that encourage you (for example, being a child of God, holy, beloved, etc.).
Since God’s faithfulness spans generations, his timeline for his promises coming to pass often does not match our own. How can we wait well when God seems to delay in fulfilling his promises?
How does this story point us to the person and work of Jesus?
Prayer: Based on question #5, take some time to praise God for the ways he has worked in your lives in the past, both individually and as a group. Ask God for the kind of faith that sees God’s work across generations, and for patience as we wait for him to fulfill his promises.
