This morning we unveiled the uncomfortable as we discussed Judah and his interactions with Tamar in Genesis 38. This often-overlooked chapter may not make it into children’s Bibles, but it’s a crucial part of God’s inspired word. Join us as we delve into the complexities, discomfort, and divine sovereignty embedded in this narrative. What truths does God have for us in this seemingly uncomfortable aside? How is it both profitable and worthwhile for our understanding of God’s plan?

In our Sunday School session today, we delved into Genesis 36 and 37. The scripture unfolds the lineage of Esau (otherwise known as Edom). He and his descendants dwell over and against their brothers, never to return to the promised land or to the Lord. Transitioning from this narrative, our focus shifted to Joseph—a bratty young man with dreams of grandeur.

Jacob, now back in the land with his family, is called by God to move to Bethel. But where did the idols come from, and why are people and places renamed for a second time? As we seek to answer these questions we see the promise to Abraham clearly restated in all of its elements to his grandson. Are we closer to seeing the promises fulfilled? And what do the stories of God’s continued faithfulness to Abraham’s children have to say to Israelites on their way out of Egypt, or to us?

Today we consider Genesis 33–34. In the first chapter we witness an emotional reunion marked by tension, reconciliation, and power plays. Jacob’s actions make it clear that he has no intention of living his life alongside Esau, and the undercurrent of mistrust may be mutual. Moving forward, the next chapter focuses on the defilement of Jacob’s daughter. So much sin and so little reconciliation! Passive Jacob has passed on his knack for deceit and yet even the narrator agrees that action must be taken!

As we delve into Genesis 31, we are prompted to reflect on Genesis 12 and the elements of the covenant the Lord made with Abraham, which encompassed people, place, and divine presence. We ponder the importance of the fresh covenant forming between Jacob and Laban, harkening back the events of Genesis 15. We question the irony of Laban’s attempt to rescue his household gods, exposing their helplessness to even manifest themselves in the process of his search.

Today we embarked on the next section of Genesis, the “generations of Isaac.” So little ink is devoted to this patriarch and yet there is much to be gleaned from this chapter. Abraham’s life ends and the promise continues.