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Jan 09, 2014 / Bible Study / 3 COMMENTS
Today’s Scripture
“When Esau heard his father’s words, he let out a loud and bitter cry. “Oh, my father, what about me? Bless me, too!” he begged (Genesis 27:34).
In the reading today, at the prompting of his mother, Jacob schemes to receive the patriarchal blessing bestowed upon him instead of the rightful firstborn – his brother Esau. After it was given, the blessing could not be “undone;” however, it was God’s plan that the blessing flow through the second son, Jacob, who was to become the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. This blessing was actually part of the birthright and usually included both property and family superiority. In the Bible, and in this instance, blessings were usually prophetic.
God’s plans cannot be thwarted by man. God chooses to work through man to accomplish His purposes. God requires obedience on our part as we live out a life of faith. To be obedient means we live by faith, trusting in God and what He says in His Word, and are careful to follow His commands. As we pursue righteousness, God desires to bless us in return.
How careful are you to follow God’s Word?
This certainly is an interesting story of the blessing coming through this lying. I can see how they make some choices that are righteous and obedient, but I am having trouble connecting it with Jacob stealing the blessing. I guess the main point is that it is Gods grace that covers our sins? since Rebekah knew that Jacob would get the blessing are we supposed to take her act of helping Jacob deceive Issac as righteous or obedient? it seems like she wasn’t trusting God there. Also, this could be stretching things but is there ever any connection made to us being like Jacob and receiving the blessing even though we don’t deserve it and Christ being similar to Esau and serving us? I know God is not deceived like Isaac and Christ willing gave his life and blessing to us and he was blessed in return, but it is an interesting thought to me.
I also have been troubled with this story. Rebekah heard from God during her pregnancy and knew that Esau would serve Jacob but is this just an illustration of God using man to accomplish His work? Is it also an illustration of Rebekah’s impatience in not allowing God to control this situation? Was Rebekah an instrument to fulfill God’s promise? If so, why was she cursed?
Hi Emily,
It’s wonderful to see you on the blog today! Thank you for posting. Here is an article I found from the Jewish Women’s Archive, which might be helpful:
http://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/rebekah-midrash-and-aggadah