When Laban catches up to his son-in-law, he accuses him of stealing his family gods. Jacob, angered by the accusation, invites Laban to search the entire camp to find them. What follows is a story of Rachel's trickery, family negotiation, and even an insight into the kind of unearned blessing that
Genesis 31:1-21
Jacob and Laban have reached a breaking point and Jacob decides it is time to leave. Instead of talking with his father-in-law Jacob decides to flee unannounced, and to make it all worse, his wife steals items from Laban's household on the way out. Join the Pastors as they explore this interesting
Genesis 30:25-43
Jacob and Laban find themselves at a crossroads. God has blessed Laban because of Jacob and, yet Jacob wants to make a way for himself. They try to best one another and barter a deal that each think will enrich himself. At the end of the day, we discover that God remains faithful to Jacob, and
Genesis 30:1-24
When Rachel's jealousy of her sister grows, so does the conflict between them. In a story that intentionally echoes the original story of Jacob and Esau, we now see two sisters locked in a battle for favor, except in this case it only expands when they also give their handmaids to Jacob as wives.
Genesis 29:21-35
In one of the most complicated family stories in the entire book of Genesis, Jacob's father-in-law tricks him into marrying both of his daughters in exchange for 14 years of labor instead of 7. Then, in a twist of dark irony, Jacob's least favorite wife Leah bears him sons while his favorite wife
Genesis 29:1-20
Jacob arrives safely at his Uncle Laban's house so it would be natural to assume that the worst is behind him. Yet, to those who know what to look for, today's text is a foreboding tale of the story to come. Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on
Genesis 28
When Jacob runs to save his life from his brother Esau, he hits rock bottom, sleeping under the stars with his head literally on a rock. What follows is a remarkable story of God's faithfulness to his promise, a dream inspired by God himself, and a conversion experience that leaves something to be
Genesis 27:30-46
When Esau discovers his brother's successful scheme to steal his blessing, he is deeply wounded and begs his father for a blessing of his own. What follows will be a story of deep grief, anger, and a family that it ripped to pieces. This is the kind of messy human story that we all know too well.