Rebekah said to her son Jacob, "Behold, I overheard your father saying to your brother Esau, Rebekah said to her son JacobThe phrase "Rebekah said to her son Jacob" introduces us to a pivotal moment in the narrative. Rebekah, whose name in Hebrew (רִבְקָה, Rivkah) can mean "to tie" or "to bind," plays a crucial role in the unfolding of God's covenantal promises. Her actions here are driven by a deep understanding of the prophecy given to her during her pregnancy (Genesis 25:23), where God revealed that "the older will serve the younger." This moment is a testament to her faith and determination to see God's will fulfilled, albeit through human manipulation. The relationship between Rebekah and Jacob is intimate and strategic, highlighting the maternal influence in the biblical narrative. Behold I overheard your father saying to your brother Esau Persons / Places / Events 1. RebekahThe wife of Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob. She plays a pivotal role in the events of Genesis 27 by orchestrating the deception of Isaac to secure the blessing for Jacob. 2. Jacob The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, who is favored by his mother. He is instructed by Rebekah to deceive his father Isaac to receive the blessing intended for Esau. 3. Esau The elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, who is favored by his father. He is the intended recipient of Isaac's blessing but is ultimately deceived by his brother Jacob. 4. Isaac The patriarch and father of Esau and Jacob. He is old and nearly blind, making him susceptible to the deception planned by Rebekah and Jacob. 5. The Blessing A significant event in the patriarchal family, where Isaac intends to bestow a blessing upon Esau, which is a formal and spiritual act of passing on God's promises and favor. Teaching Points The Sovereignty of GodDespite human deception and manipulation, God's purposes prevail. Rebekah's actions, while morally questionable, align with God's earlier prophecy. This teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty even when circumstances seem contrary. The Consequences of Deception Rebekah and Jacob's deception leads to long-term family strife. This serves as a warning about the destructive nature of deceit and the importance of integrity. Parental Influence and Favoritism Rebekah's favoritism towards Jacob and Isaac's towards Esau create division. This highlights the need for parents to love and treat their children equitably to prevent discord. The Value of Spiritual Blessings The account underscores the importance of valuing spiritual blessings and birthrights. Esau's disregard for his birthright serves as a cautionary tale about prioritizing temporary desires over eternal promises. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Rebekah's role in Genesis 27:6 reflect the fulfillment of God's prophecy in Genesis 25:23, and what does this teach us about God's sovereignty?2. In what ways can favoritism within a family lead to conflict, and how can we apply this lesson to our own family dynamics? 3. Considering the consequences faced by Jacob and Rebekah, what can we learn about the long-term effects of deception and dishonesty in our relationships? 4. How does the account of Esau and Jacob challenge us to evaluate what we truly value in life, particularly in terms of spiritual versus material priorities? 5. Reflect on a time when you faced a moral dilemma similar to Rebekah's. How did you handle it, and what biblical principles can guide us in making righteous decisions? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 25:23This verse provides context for Rebekah's actions, as God had revealed to her that the older (Esau) would serve the younger (Jacob). This prophecy influences her decision to help Jacob receive the blessing. Hebrews 12:16-17 This passage warns against being like Esau, who for a single meal sold his birthright. It highlights the spiritual significance of the birthright and blessing, which Esau undervalued. Romans 9:10-13 Paul references the account of Jacob and Esau to illustrate God's sovereign choice, emphasizing that God's purposes are not based on human actions but on His calling.
People Esau, Haran, Heth, Isaac, Jacob, Laban, RebekahPlaces Beersheba, HaranTopics Behold, Brother, Esau, Hearing, Jacob, Overheard, Rebecca, Rebekah, Saying, Spake, Speak, Speaking, Spoke, SpokenDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 27:1-255719 mothers, responsibilities Library There is a Great Question About Lying, which Often Arises in the Midst Of...1. There is a great question about Lying, which often arises in the midst of our every day business, and gives us much trouble, that we may not either rashly call that a lie which is not such, or decide that it is sometimes right to tell a lie, that is, a kind of honest, well-meant, charitable lie. This question we will painfully discuss by seeking with them that seek: whether to any good purpose, we need not take upon ourselves to affirm, for the attentive reader will sufficiently gather from the … St. Augustine—On Lying Epistle Lii. To Natalis, Bishop . The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) Letter xxxv. From Pope Damasus. Touching Jacob, However, that which He did at his Mother's Bidding... Conflict. First Withdrawal from Herod's Territory and Return. Genesis Links Genesis 27:6 NIVGenesis 27:6 NLT Genesis 27:6 ESV Genesis 27:6 NASB Genesis 27:6 KJV Genesis 27:6 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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