April 21, 2024 - Genesis 35:1-15

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                                                                                                        April 21, 2024

Genesis 35:1-15

Lessons Learned

by Wayne Gaeddert

1. In this chapter we see God confirming the covenant made to Abraham and Isaac with Jacob (Israel) as the older generation dies.

2. Some commentators believe Jacob made a mistake by initially settling at Shechem instead of going to Bethel.

3. Jacob’s instructions teach his household (family) and all with him (servants and slaves) how to approach God.

4. Putting away foreign gods is reminiscent of the first commandment. Exodus 20:3

5. Purification and cleansing are reminiscent of the priests preparing to serve in the tabernacle/temple.

6. Jacob confesses to his family, servants, and slaves that God has been directing his life every step of the way.

7. God’s promises to Jacob (Israel).

·       Be fruitful and multiply

·       A nation and a company of nations will descend from you.

·       Kings will be your descendants.

·       I give you the land promised to Abraham and Isaac.

·       I will give the land to your offspring also.

8. Jacob responds to God in worship.

9. Bethel means ‘the house of God.’

10. El-Bethel means ‘the God of Bethel.’

11. God revealed himself to the patriarchs as ‘God Almighty’ this is the translation for El-Shaddi which means ‘God, the all sufficient one.’ It appears in Genesis 17:1, 28:3, 35:11, 43:14, and 48:3.

12. Application:

• Spiritual renewal is not possible without making changes to your lifestyle.

• You experience God’s blessing when you are obedient to go where he has called you to be.

• God has given us promises that we can claim. (This is a very short list.)

>     Jesus will return. John 14:3, Acts 1:11

>     Jesus is preparing a place for you. John 14:2

>     Jesus will never leave or forsake you. Hebrews 13:5

>     God chose you. Ephesians 1:4

>     Believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 1:13

>     You can find rest in Jesus. Matthew 11:28

>     Whoever believes in Jesus has eternal life. John 3:16

> Where two or three are gathered in Jesus’ name, He will be in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20

>     God forgives you when you confess your sins. 1 John 1:9

>     God will supply your needs. Philippians 4:19

>     All things work out for good for His children. Romans 8:28

>     Jesus came to give you abundant life. John 10:10