There he set up an altar and called it El-Elohe-Israel. There he set up an altarJacob responded to God’s preserving grace with worship. Having returned safely to the land, been delivered from Esau’s anger, and received the name Israel, he publicly acknowledged the Lord’s faithfulness. The altar stood on land Jacob had purchased near Shechem, declaring that his household belonged to God even as they began to dwell in Canaan. It also recalled the covenant promises given to Abraham and Isaac, whose lives were likewise marked by altars raised in response to God’s presence and promises. Gen 35:7 There Jacob built an altar, and he called that place… and called it El-Elohe-Israel. The name means “God, the God of Israel,” identifying the Lord as Jacob’s own God after God had renamed him Israel. Jacob no longer spoke only of the God of his fathers; he confessed personal allegiance to the God who had met him at Bethel, guarded him through exile, and brought him home. The altar testified that Israel’s future family and nation would exist under the covenant care and authority of the one true God. Gen 32:28 Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob,… Persons / Places / Events 1. JacobThe patriarch who set up the altar. He is a central figure in Genesis, known for his journey of faith and transformation, including his name change to Israel. 2. El-Elohe-Israel The name Jacob gives to the altar, meaning "God, the God of Israel." This signifies Jacob's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and his personal relationship with God. 3. Shechem The location where Jacob sets up the altar. It is a significant place in biblical history, often associated with covenantal events and worship. Teaching Points Acknowledgment of God's SovereigntyJacob's act of setting up an altar and naming it El-Elohe-Israel is a public declaration of God's sovereignty in his life. Believers today are called to acknowledge God's rule and reign in their lives through worship and obedience. Personal Relationship with God The naming of the altar reflects Jacob's personal relationship with God. Christians are encouraged to cultivate a personal and intimate relationship with God, recognizing Him as their personal Lord and Savior. Significance of Worship Building an altar was an act of worship and dedication. Worship remains a vital aspect of the Christian life, involving both personal devotion and corporate gatherings. Legacy of Faith Jacob's actions at Shechem set a precedent for future generations. Believers are reminded of the importance of leaving a legacy of faith for their families and communities. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the name "El-Elohe-Israel" reveal about Jacob's understanding of God, and how can this understanding influence our own view of God today?2. How does Jacob's act of setting up an altar at Shechem compare to his earlier experience at Bethel, and what does this teach us about spiritual growth and commitment? 3. In what ways can we, like Jacob, publicly acknowledge God's sovereignty in our lives today? 4. How does the significance of Shechem in biblical history enhance our understanding of the importance of place in worship and covenant? 5. Reflect on a time when you have experienced God's faithfulness. How can you create a "spiritual altar" in your life to commemorate and remember His work? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 28:18-22Jacob's earlier encounter with God at Bethel, where he sets up a pillar and makes a vow to God. This connection highlights Jacob's ongoing relationship and commitment to God. Exodus 20:24 God's instructions to the Israelites about building altars, emphasizing worship and sacrifice as central to their relationship with Him. Joshua 24:1-25 Joshua gathers all the tribes at Shechem to renew the covenant, showing the continued significance of Shechem as a place of worship and commitment to God.
People Aram, Esau, Hamor, Jacob, Joseph, Leah, Rachel, SeirPlaces Canaan, Paddan-aram, Penuel, Seir, Shechem, SuccothTopics Altar, El, Eleloheisrael, El-elohe-israel, El-el'ohe-israel, Elohe, Erected, Naming, Proclaimeth, SettethDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 33:20Library Jesus Sets Out from Judæa for Galilee. Subdivision B. At Jacob's Well, and at Sychar. ^D John IV. 5-42. ^d 5 So he cometh to a city of Samaria, called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 and Jacob's well was there. [Commentators long made the mistake of supposing that Shechem, now called Nablous, was the town here called Sychar. Sheckem lies a mile and a half west of Jacob's well, while the real Sychar, now called 'Askar, lies scarcely half a mile north of the well. It was a small town, loosely called … J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Roman Pilgrimage: the Miracles which were Wrought in It. Genesis Links Genesis 33:20 NIVGenesis 33:20 NLT Genesis 33:20 ESV Genesis 33:20 NASB Genesis 33:20 KJV Genesis 33:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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