The Supplanter: Part 1 of 2

Preview: The story of Esau and Jacob. Part one of a two-part lesson.


Scripture Reading: Genesis 27:18-29.

Memory Verse: Malachi 1:2.

1. Why did Isaac entreat the Lord for his wife? Did God hear him? Genesis 25:21.
2. Did the unborn children perplex Rebekah? Genesis 25:22.
3. What did God tell her? Genesis 25:23.
4. Was the difference obvious from birth? Genesis 25:24-26.
5. How did Esau and Jacob develop? Genesis 25:27.
6. Were the parents impartial toward them? Genesis 25:28.
Note: Looking back through the pages of history we see examples of the same diversity that is manifested in Esau and Jacob. Cain and Abel are the first examples of that fact. Jesus tells us that same condition will exist even in the Church (Matthew 25:1-13). It is not opportunity or circumstance that determines whether one will be saved or lost, it is free choice. Some will be saved under the most difficult circumstances, while others will be lost under the most favorable conditions.
7. What was the incident in which Esau gave Jacob the advantage? Genesis 25:29-33.
8. What is said concerning the meal and Esau’s attitude? Genesis 25:34.
9. Are we warned against failing in a similar way? Hebrews 12:15-17.
Note: While we cannot endorse the method Jacob used to obtain Esau’s birthright or his blessing, we should remember that Esau was not forced to sell his birthright, and he was not all that hungry. When anyone postpones obedience to the will of God or turns back, that individual is going the way of Esau, selling his birthright (eternal life) for a meal of pottage (things of this short life).
10. Was God’s will fulfilled regarding Esau and Jacob? Romans 9:10-13.
11. Did Esau’s marriage please his parents? Genesis 26:34-35.

To Be Continued…

Other Lessons* in this series:

The Supplanter: Part 1 of 2
The Supplanter: Part 2 of 2

*Lessons in a series may not necessarily be in the same category.