LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF JACOB #95
Pastor Christopher Choo
Lesson 3596
LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF JACOB #95
THE END OF JACOB'S LIFE
We conclude the study of Jacob's life with an overview.
The similarities in the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are striking.
In their stories, we see the importance of family and the influence of example. Themes like deceit, favoritism, family strife, an unexpected blessing, reconciliation, and faith flow through the narratives.
Mostly, we see that God is faithful to His promises. He chooses to accomplish His kingdom purposes through sinful people who are willing to believe Him. He can make those sinful people new—giving Abram the name Abraham, Jacob the name Israel.
Jacob’s name, "deceiver," does seem to characterize much of Jacob’s life. But he was also Israel, one to whom God made promises to which He remained faithful. God appeared to Jacob, and Jacob believed God’s promises. Despite Jacob’s faults, God chose him to be the leader of a great nation that still bears his name today. But for this, it is unlikely that we would know much about Jacob, who appears to be in the middle of events while the key players are those around him.
There is no great wisdom or bravery in Jacob to speak of, and we are tempted to see him as little more than God’s passive instrument. If we are tempted to think that, because we aren’t in the spotlight performing great acts for God, we are unimportant to Him, then we should consider the life of Jacob and know that, in spite of our failings, God can and will still use us in His plan.
God makes those who believe in Jesus Christ into new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). Though our sinful patterns might still plague us, in Christ we find forgiveness for our sins as well as the power to overcome. We are invited to participate in God’s work in the world. We have new names and can trust the promises of God who proves Himself faithful time and time again.
Jacob's life and his children have so much to teach us. Let us pray that we learn from their mistakes not to repeat them. To God be the glory!
N.B. Tomorrow we shall begin a study about the life of Joseph. Do stay tuned.
