God's Grace in Conflict

As we begin a new year, we are returning once again to our study of Genesis. Last year our study brought us through the life of Abraham, whom God chose and promised to be the father of many nations. Now we see the continuation of God's covenant promises to Abraham kept and fulfilled to his son Isaac through the birth of Isaac's twin sons, Jacob and Esau. We will see a stark contrast between Jacob and the God he serves. Like his grandfather Abraham, Jacob had shortcomings and besetting sins, and we will see this week that he could be a scoundrel in his dealings with his brother Esau. But yet, God was keeping His promises to Abraham and His descendants, and by His sovereign choice was preparing a nation through which the promised Messiah would come and break our bondage to sin and redeem a new covenant people who cherish the spiritual blessings of their Father, unlike Esau who despised them.