Jul 23 – 7 Pentecost
Genesis 28:10-19a
Jacob’s Dream at Bethel

Background: In the latter part of Genesis we read the stories of the foundation of the patriarchs of Israel, Abraham, Isaac, and later Jacob. The later chapters establish a history for the people of Israel while solidifying a number of motifs of the Old Testament. The story in Genesis also serves to remind the Israelites of God’s covenant relationship with them as the chosen people of God.

Theme: Jacob is fleeing from Israel under perceived threat from his brother Esau. Jacob begins his journey toward Abraham’s homeland. During his flight from Esau he has a dream where he sees God’s presence and the presence of angels on the “ladder to heaven.”

Questions to Ponder:
* Please read Genesis 28:10-19a. Also read Genesis 27:1-28:9 for context and background.
* What has occurred prior to this passage? Who are the principle characters in the Jacob saga and what are their influences on this reading?
* Locate the following places: Beersheba, Beth-el, and Haran.
* For what reason might Jacob be traveling alone?
* What would be odd about a lone traveler during this period in Israel’s history?
* Why might the angels of God be “ascending and descending” from heaven on the ladder reaching to heaven? What might the implication be of having the word “ascending” precede “descending” be in the relationship between God and humans?
* Why might God self-identify as “the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac”? What might the implication be identifying Abraham as Jacob’s father, especially when Isaac is Jacob’s father?
* What is the relationship between God and Jacob before this passage?
* How might God’s promise to Jacob in verse 15 be fulfilled? Does God fulfill the promise made to Jacob?
* How would Jacob know if God’s promise was fulfilled for him?
* Do you think there was a tone of exclusivity in Jacob’s declaration about the place where he slept being “the house of God”?
* What conclusions might we make from Jacob’s realization and observation?
* What was the impact on Jacob with regard to God’s promise that he would safely return to Beth-el later and be a prominent person in his society? Why might that seem ironic?
* What is the primary point of this passage?
* What immediate impact do you imagine God’s promise had on Jacob?
* What was Jacob’s response to God’s providence?
* How does this passage impact our life and ministry?