◄ Genesis 25 ►
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Abraham and Keturah (1 Chronicles 1:32–33) 1Now Abraham had taken another wife, named Keturah, 2and she bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah. 3Jokshan was the father of Sheba and Dedan. And the sons of Dedan were the Asshurites, the Letushites, and the Leummites. 4The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah. All these were descendants of Keturah. 5Abraham left everything he owned to Isaac. 6But while he was still alive, Abraham gave gifts to the sons of his concubines and sent them away from his son Isaac to the land of the east. The Death of Abraham 7Abraham lived a total of 175 years. 8And at a ripe old age he breathed his last and died, old and contented, and was gathered to his people. 9His sons Isaac and Ishmael buried him in the cave of Machpelah near Mamre, in the field of Ephron son of Zohar the Hittite. 10This was the field that Abraham had bought from the Hittites. Abraham was buried there with his wife Sarah. 11After Abraham’s death, God blessed his son Isaac, who lived near Beer-lahai-roi. The Descendants of Ishmael (1 Chronicles 1:28–31) 12This is the account of Abraham’s son Ishmael, whom Hagar the Egyptian, Sarah’s maidservant, bore to Abraham. 13These are the names of the sons of Ishmael in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, 14Mishma, Dumah, Massa, 15Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah. 16These were the sons of Ishmael, and these were their names by their villages and encampments—twelve princes of their tribes. 17Ishmael lived a total of 137 years. Then he breathed his last and died, and was gathered to his people. 18Ishmael’s descendants settled from Havilah to Shur, which is near the border of Egypt as you go toward Asshur.a And they lived in hostility toward all their brothers. Jacob and Esau (Malachi 1:1–5; Romans 9:6–29) 19This is the account of Abraham’s son Isaac. Abraham became the father of Isaac, 20and Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan-aramb and the sister of Laban the Aramean. 21Later, Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. And the LORD heard his prayer, and his wife Rebekah conceived. 22But the children inside her struggled with each other, and she said, “Why is this happening to me?” So Rebekah went to inquire of the LORD, 23and He declared to her: “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.”c 24When her time came to give birth, there were indeed twins in her womb. 25The first one came out red, covered with hair like a fur coat; so they named him Esau.d 26After this, his brother came out grasping Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob.e And Isaac was sixty years old when the twins were born. 27When the boys grew up, Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the field, while Jacob was a quiet man who stayed at home. 28Because Isaac had a taste for wild game, he loved Esau; but Rebekah loved Jacob. Esau Sells His Birthright 29One day, while Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the field and was famished. 30He said to Jacob, “Let me eat some of that red stew, for I am famished.” (That is why he was also called Edom.f) 31“First sell me your birthright,” Jacob replied. 32“Look,” said Esau, “I am about to die, so what good is a birthright to me?” 33“Swear to me first,” Jacob said. So Esau swore to Jacob and sold him the birthright. 34Then Jacob gave some bread and lentil stew to Esau, who ate and drank and then got up and went away. Thus Esau despised his birthright. Footnotes: 18 a Or Assyria 20 b That is, northwest Mesopotamia 23 c Cited in Romans 9:12 25 d Esau sounds like a Hebrew term that means hairy. 26 e Jacob means he grasps the heel or he deceives. 30 f Edom means red. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Genesis 25 Summary Jacob and Esau Verses 1–6 – Abraham’s Later Sons and Their Eastern Settlements After Sarah’s death, Abraham marries Keturah, who bears six sons. Abraham grants Isaac full inheritance, but gives gifts to Keturah’s sons and sends them eastward. Verses 7–11 – Death of Abraham and Blessing of Isaac Abraham dies at 175 and is buried by Isaac and Ishmael in the cave of Machpelah. God’s blessing now rests on Isaac, who lives near Beer-lahai-roi. Verses 12–18 – Ishmael’s Twelve Princes and Territory The record of Ishmael lists twelve sons who become tribal leaders spread from Havilah to Shur, living “in hostility toward all their brothers” (v. 18). Verses 19–26 – Isaac’s Prayer and the Birth of Esau and Jacob Rebekah is barren until Isaac’s prayer is answered. Twins struggle in the womb; the LORD foretells that “the older will serve the younger” (v. 23). Esau is born first, Jacob grabs his heel. Verses 27–34 – Esau Sells His Birthright to Jacob Esau grows up a hunter; Jacob stays among the tents. Famished, Esau trades his birthright for lentil stew, showing contempt for his privileged position. This chapter delves into the intricate lineage of Abraham, the patriarch of faith, providing insight into his descendants' lives, and more notably, the dynamics of Isaac's family, focusing on the contentious relationship between his sons, Esau and Jacob. Context and Setting Genesis 25 marks a turning point: Abraham’s era closes, Isaac’s generation steps forward, and two diverging family lines—Isaac-Jacob and Ishmael-Esau—take shape. The chapter bridges the patriarch’s promise with the coming account of the nation. Abraham’s Family after Sarah • Keturah’s name means “incense.” Some ancient Jews identified her with Hagar; the text treats her as a distinct “wife” (v. 1). • Abraham is still vigorous; Genesis 17:17 already showed God could renew his body. • 1 Chronicles 1:32-33 repeats these sons, confirming their place in Israel’s broader family tree. Keturah’s Sons and Arabian Peoples 1. Zimran – possibly linked to tribes near the Red Sea. 2. Jokshan – father of Sheba and Dedan; Sheba surfaces in 1 Kings 10 with the queen who visits Solomon. 3. Medan and 4. Midian – Midian becomes home to Moses’ father-in-law (Exodus 2:15-22) and the Midianite traders (Genesis 37:28). 5. Ishbak – sparsely attested; name appears in North-Arabian inscriptions. 6. Shuah – Bildad the Shuhite in Job (Job 2:11) may descend from him. Archaeological surveys in northwest Arabia and the Hijaz show nomadic encampments and trade routes that fit these early tribal movements east of Canaan. Gifts versus Inheritance Genesis 25:5-6: “Abraham gave everything he owned to Isaac. But while he was still alive, Abraham gave gifts to the sons of his concubines and sent them away….” The distinction upholds the covenant line (Genesis 17:19-21). Deuteronomy 21:17 later codifies a double portion for the firstborn; Abraham already anticipates this by securing Isaac’s uncontested status. The Cave of Machpelah • Purchased in Genesis 23, this field near Hebron is history’s first recorded title deed. • Modern structure: a Herodian enclosure still marks the site, revered by Jews and others. • Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, Leah, and eventually Joseph’s bones (Joshua 24:32) connect to this burial tradition. Ishmael’s Twelve Princes Genesis 25:16: “twelve princes of their nations.” God’s earlier promise (Genesis 17:20) is fulfilled exactly. Names like Nebaioth and Kedar surface in Isaiah 60:7; Tema in Job 6:19; Dumah in Isaiah 21:11. Extra-biblical Assyrian texts list Qedarite kings, showing these tribes’ endurance. Isaac: The Child of Promise Continues the Line • Abraham’s blessing now rests on Isaac alone (v. 11). • Location: Beer-lahai-roi, the well where Hagar met the Angel (Genesis 16:14), hints at God’s watchful care over both branches of the family. Barrenness and Intercession Isaac prays for Rebekah (v. 21); the Hebrew verb suggests prolonged pleading. Like Sarah, Rebekah’s womb must be opened by God, underscoring that the covenant lineage is divine, not merely biological (cf. Psalm 113:9). Esau and Jacob: Prophecy and Pattern Genesis 25:23 previews national destinies: Edom and Israel. Romans 9:10-13 cites this to show divine choice before human deeds. The struggle in the womb foreshadows lifelong conflict, mirrored later by David-Edom wars (2 Samuel 8:13-14). The Birthright in Ancient Culture • Rights: headship, double inheritance, spiritual leadership (priest of the household). • Esau trades all this for immediate appetite (Hebrews 12:16-17 warns believers not to imitate him). • Jacob, though flawed, values the promise. His action shows determination to secure what God hinted at; yet his method introduces tension that will unfold in chapters 27-33. Foreshadowings of New Testament Themes • Birth by promise versus natural descent (Galatians 4:22-29). • Reversal of human order (the younger favored) appears in Joseph, Ephraim, David, and ultimately in Jesus, “the stone the builders rejected” (Matthew 21:42). • The stew scene highlights the contrast between fleshly desire and spiritual inheritance (1 John 2:16-17). Archaeological Notes • Ancient Near-Eastern birthright sales appear in Nuzi tablets (15th century BC), where family privileges could be transferred for goods—supporting Genesis’ plausibility. • Midianite pottery (“Midianite wares”) found at Timna copper mines aligns with later Midianite presence attested in Exodus and Judges. • Ishmaelite trade caravans in Genesis 37 match camel corps imagery on Egyptian reliefs from the same era. Practical Application 1. Value eternal promises over immediate cravings. 2. Intercede persistently for barren or impossible situations; God delights to open closed doors. 3. Honor God’s chosen line—today, this means honoring God’s redemptive plan in Christ rather than relying on birth, tradition, or personal effort. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 12:16-17 Reflects on Esau's decision and warns against trading eternal blessings for temporary satisfaction. Romans 9:10-13 Discusses God's sovereign choice in the lives of Jacob and Esau, emphasizing His purpose and calling. Galatians 4:28-31 Compares the children of promise (Isaac) and the children of the flesh (Ishmael), illustrating the difference between living by faith and by human effort. Teaching Points Abraham's Legacy and Death Genesis 25:7-8 records the death of Abraham at 175 years old, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promise to make him a father of many nations. Abraham breathed his last and died at a ripe old age, an old man and full of years, and he was gathered to his people (Genesis 25:8). The Generations of Ishmael Verses 12-18 detail the genealogy of Ishmael, Abraham's son through Hagar, highlighting God's faithfulness to His promise to make Ishmael a great nation (Genesis 17:20). The Birth of Esau and Jacob Verses 21-26 describe the miraculous birth of Isaac's sons, Esau and Jacob, after Rebekah's barrenness. The LORD said to her, 'Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger' (Genesis 25:23). Esau Sells His Birthright In verses 29-34, Esau's impulsive decision to sell his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew underscores the theme of valuing spiritual inheritance. So Esau despised his birthright (Genesis 25:34). Practical Applications Value Spiritual Inheritance Just as Esau's disregard for his birthright had lasting consequences, we should cherish and prioritize our spiritual inheritance in Christ. Trust in God's Sovereignty The lives of Isaac, Jacob, and Esau remind us that God's plans prevail despite human flaws and failures. Generational Impact Consider how your faith and decisions today can influence future generations, just as Abraham's faith impacted his descendants. Seek God's Guidance Like Rebekah, who inquired of the Lord during her pregnancy, we should seek God's wisdom in times of uncertainty. People 1. Abraham The patriarch of the Israelites, father of Isaac and Ishmael. Genesis 25:1 mentions him taking another wife, Keturah, after Sarah's death. 2. Keturah Abraham's wife after Sarah, who bore him several children. Her name is mentioned in Genesis 25:1. 3. Zimran One of the sons of Abraham and Keturah, listed in Genesis 25:2. 4. Jokshan Another son of Abraham and Keturah, mentioned in Genesis 25:2. 5. Medan A son of Abraham and Keturah, as noted in Genesis 25:2. 6. Midian A son of Abraham and Keturah, whose descendants became the Midianites. Mentioned in Genesis 25:2. 7. Ishbak A son of Abraham and Keturah, listed in Genesis 25:2. 8. Shuah The last son of Abraham and Keturah mentioned in Genesis 25:2. 9. Isaac The son of Abraham and Sarah, and the father of Esau and Jacob. He is the child of promise, as noted in Genesis 25:5. 10. Ishmael The son of Abraham and Hagar, Sarah's maidservant. He is mentioned in Genesis 25:9 as one of the sons who buried Abraham. 11. Esau The elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, known for selling his birthright to Jacob. His birth is recorded in Genesis 25:25. 12. Jacob The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, who later becomes Israel. His birth is mentioned in Genesis 25:26. 13. Rebekah The wife of Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob. Her role is significant in the narrative of Genesis 25:20-26. 14. Hagar Although not directly mentioned in Genesis 25, she is the mother of Ishmael, who is mentioned in the chapter. The chapter also refers to the descendants of these individuals, but the list above focuses on the primary persons mentioned in Genesis 25. Places 1. Kiriath-arba (Hebron) This is where Abraham lived for a time and where he was buried. Hebron, known as Kiriath-arba, is a significant location in the patriarchal narratives. The name "Hebron" (חֶבְרוֹן) in Hebrew is associated with fellowship or association. 2. Machpelah The cave of Machpelah is the burial site that Abraham purchased from Ephron the Hittite. It is located near Mamre, which is Hebron. This site is significant as the family burial place for the patriarchs and matriarchs. 3. Havilah Mentioned in the context of the descendants of Ishmael, Havilah is a region that is often associated with wealth and resources, such as gold. The Hebrew root חֲוִילָה (Chavilah) suggests a place of circular or sandy terrain. 4. Shur This is a desert region on the northeastern border of Egypt. It is mentioned as a place where Ishmael's descendants settled. The Hebrew word שׁוּר (Shur) can mean "wall," indicating a boundary or fortification. 5. Assyria The land of Assyria is mentioned in relation to the territories where the descendants of Ishmael settled. Assyria, known in Hebrew as אַשּׁוּר (Ashur), was a major Mesopotamian kingdom and empire. Events 1. Abraham Takes Another Wife Abraham marries Keturah, who bears him several children. This event highlights Abraham's continued role as a patriarch and the expansion of his lineage. The Hebrew root for "wife" (אִשָּׁה, ishah) emphasizes the formal and recognized union. 2. Descendants of Keturah The sons of Keturah are listed: Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah. This genealogy underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to make Abraham a father of many nations. 3. Abraham's Inheritance Abraham gives all he has to Isaac, while giving gifts to the sons of his concubines and sending them away to the east. This act of inheritance reflects the Hebrew concept of "nachalah" (נַחֲלָה), meaning inheritance or possession, emphasizing Isaac as the primary heir. 4. Death of Abraham Abraham dies at the age of 175 and is buried by his sons Isaac and Ishmael in the cave of Machpelah. The Hebrew term for "buried" (קָבַר, qabar) signifies the act of laying to rest with honor. 5. God Blesses Isaac After Abraham's death, God blesses Isaac, reaffirming the covenantal promise. The Hebrew word for "bless" (בָּרַךְ, barak) indicates divine favor and empowerment. 6. Descendants of Ishmael The genealogy of Ishmael is provided, listing his twelve sons, who become tribal leaders. This fulfills God's promise to Hagar regarding Ishmael's descendants. 7. Death of Ishmael Ishmael dies at the age of 137, and his descendants settle from Havilah to Shur. The narrative of Ishmael's death and his descendants' settlement highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to make him a great nation. Lessons from Genesis 25 1. The Importance of Legacy Genesis 25 opens with the account of Abraham's later years and his descendants. Abraham's life reminds us of the importance of leaving a legacy that honors God. As it is written, "Abraham breathed his last and died at a ripe old age, an old man and full of years, and he was gathered to his people" (Genesis 25:8). Our lives should be lived with the intention of passing on faith and values to the next generation. 2. God's Faithfulness to His Promises The chapter highlights God's unwavering faithfulness. Despite Abraham's advanced age, God fulfilled His promise by giving him many descendants. "After Abraham’s death, God blessed his son Isaac" (Genesis 25:11). This serves as a reminder that God is always true to His word, and His promises are sure. 3. The Power of Prayer Rebekah's struggle with barrenness and Isaac's response is a powerful lesson on prayer. "Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. The LORD answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant" (Genesis 25:21). This teaches us that prayer is a powerful tool in seeking God's intervention in our lives. 4. God's Sovereign Choice The story of Jacob and Esau's birth reveals God's sovereign choice. "The LORD said to her, 'Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger'" (Genesis 25:23). God's plans often defy human expectations, reminding us to trust in His wisdom. 5. The Danger of Impulsiveness Esau's decision to sell his birthright for a bowl of stew is a cautionary tale about impulsiveness. "So Esau despised his birthright" (Genesis 25:34). This teaches us to value what is truly important and not to sacrifice long-term blessings for short-term gratification. 6. The Value of Spiritual Inheritance Jacob's desire for the birthright shows the value of spiritual inheritance. While Esau was indifferent, Jacob understood its significance. This encourages us to cherish and pursue spiritual blessings, knowing they have eternal value. 7. The Role of Family Dynamics Genesis 25 highlights the complexities of family dynamics, as seen in the relationships between Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Esau. These dynamics remind us of the importance of fostering healthy, God-centered relationships within our families. 8. The Consequences of Favoritism Isaac's preference for Esau and Rebekah's for Jacob set the stage for future conflict. Favoritism can lead to division and strife, teaching us to love and treat each family member with equal respect and care. 9. The Significance of God's Timing The events in Genesis 25 unfold according to God's perfect timing. From the birth of Isaac's sons to the fulfillment of God's promises, we see that God's timing is always right. This encourages us to be patient and trust in His divine schedule. 10. The Call to Trust in God's Plan Ultimately, Genesis 25 calls us to trust in God's plan, even when it seems unclear. The chapter is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to work all things for good. As we navigate our own lives, let us remember to lean not on our own understanding but to trust in the Lord with all our hearts. Topics 1. Abraham's Additional Descendants (Genesis 25:1-4) Abraham takes another wife, Keturah, who bears him several children. This passage highlights the continuation of Abraham's lineage through other descendants. The Hebrew root for "took" (לָקַח, laqach) emphasizes the action of taking a wife, indicating a formal union. 2. Abraham's Death and Burial (Genesis 25:5-11) Abraham gives all he has to Isaac, and after his death, he is buried by his sons Isaac and Ishmael in the cave of Machpelah. The Hebrew word for "gave" (נָתַן, natan) signifies the transfer of inheritance, underscoring Isaac's role as the primary heir. 3. Descendants of Ishmael (Genesis 25:12-18) The genealogy of Ishmael is presented, listing his twelve sons who become tribal leaders. The Hebrew term for "generations" (תּוֹלְדוֹת, toledot) is used, indicating the record of Ishmael's lineage and fulfillment of God's promise to make him a great nation. 4. The Birth of Esau and Jacob (Genesis 25:19-26) Rebekah conceives twins after Isaac prays to the LORD. The struggle between Esau and Jacob begins even in the womb, foreshadowing future conflict. The Hebrew root for "struggled" (רָצַץ, ratsats) conveys the intense struggle between the two brothers. 5. Esau Sells His Birthright (Genesis 25:27-34) Esau, famished, sells his birthright to Jacob for a meal. This transaction highlights the spiritual and material significance of the birthright. The Hebrew word for "despised" (בָּזָה, bazah) indicates Esau's disregard for the birthright's value, emphasizing the gravity of his decision. Themes 1. The Passing of Abraham Genesis 25 begins with the death of Abraham, highlighting the theme of legacy and fulfillment of God's promises. Abraham's life and death underscore God's faithfulness to His covenant. The Hebrew word for "gathered" (אָסַף, 'asaph) in "he was gathered to his people" (Genesis 25:8) suggests a reunion with ancestors, emphasizing the continuity of God's promise through generations. 2. The Generations of Ishmael The chapter details the descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's son with Hagar, fulfilling God's promise to make Ishmael a great nation. This theme of God's faithfulness to His word is evident as Ishmael's lineage is established, showing God's care for all of Abraham's offspring. 3. The Birth of Esau and Jacob The birth of Isaac's sons, Esau and Jacob, introduces the theme of divine election and the sovereignty of God. The struggle between the twins in Rebekah's womb (Genesis 25:22) foreshadows the future conflict between their descendants. The Hebrew word for "struggle" (רָצַץ, ratsats) implies a violent jostling, indicating the significant future implications of their relationship. 4. The Selling of the Birthright Esau's sale of his birthright to Jacob for a meal (Genesis 25:29-34) highlights themes of impulsivity and the undervaluing of spiritual blessings. The Hebrew term for "despised" (בָּזָה, bazah) in "Esau despised his birthright" (Genesis 25:34) indicates a profound disregard, contrasting with Jacob's desire for the covenantal blessing. 5. God's Sovereign Choice The narrative of Esau and Jacob underscores the theme of God's sovereign choice, as seen in His declaration to Rebekah: "The older shall serve the younger" (Genesis 25:23). This theme is rooted in God's purposes and plans, transcending human customs and expectations, and is a key element in the unfolding account of Israel. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom to value and protect your spiritual inheritance in Christ. Ask God for guidance in making decisions that honor Him and impact future generations positively. Seek God's strength to trust in His sovereign plan, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Pray for a heart that seeks God's will, as Rebekah did, in times of confusion or difficulty. As we reflect on Genesis 25, may we be encouraged to live lives that honor God, trusting in His promises and seeking His guidance in all things. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could Abraham father additional children at such an advanced age (Genesis 25:1–6)? 2. Is the 175-year lifespan of Abraham (Genesis 25:7–8) historically or scientifically credible? 3. Why does Ishmael’s genealogy (Genesis 25:12–18) differ from other references to his descendants? 4. How does “the older shall serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23) align with later historical records of Edom and Israel? 5. What evidence supports or challenges the historical existence of the tribes mentioned in Genesis 25:1–4? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the account of Abraham's lineage tell us about the importance of ancestry in Biblical times? 2. How did Abraham's decision to send away the sons of his concubines impact the dynamic within his family? 3. How might the narrative be different if Abraham had not secured his inheritance for Isaac? 4. Compare and contrast the lives and character of Isaac and Ishmael. How did their experiences shape them? 5. How did the early prediction of God about the twins affect Rebekah's attitude toward them? 6. What do the differences between Esau and Jacob tell us about individuality and personal strengths? 7. How do Isaac and Rebekah's preferential treatments of their sons impact their relationship and decisions? 8. What does Esau's exchange of his birthright for stew reveal about his character and priorities? 9. How would you handle a situation today if you were in Jacob's position? Would you take advantage of your sibling's moment of weakness? 10. How does Rebekah's barrenness and subsequent pregnancy illuminate the power of prayer and God's will? 11. How did God's prophecy about the two nations influence the dynamics between Esau and Jacob? 12. In modern times, how can we relate to the concept of a birthright? Are there parallels in our society? 13. In what ways does this chapter challenge your understanding of fairness and justice? 14. How can the relationship between Esau and Jacob inform the way we approach our relationships with our siblings and family members? 15. What lessons about patience and impulsivity can we glean from the exchange between Esau and Jacob? 16. How does the account of Esau and Jacob's birth and upbringing shed light on the nature versus nurture debate? 17. If you were Isaac or Rebekah, how would you have handled the prophecy about your unborn children? 18. How can we apply the lessons from Esau's impulsive decision in our daily lives? 19. How does the story of Isaac praying for his wife, Rebekah, inspire you in your faith journey? 20. What are the implications of favoritism as demonstrated by Isaac and Rebekah, and how does this reflect in today's familial relationships? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions