You know that I have served your father with all my strength. You knowThis phrase indicates a direct appeal to the personal knowledge and experience of the listener, in this case, Jacob's wives, Leah and Rachel. It underscores the transparency and honesty Jacob is asserting in his dealings. This appeal to personal knowledge is a common biblical theme, emphasizing the importance of witness and testimony, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:15, where the testimony of two or three witnesses is required to establish a matter. that I have served your father with all my strength Persons / Places / Events 1. JacobThe central figure in this passage, Jacob is speaking to his wives, Leah and Rachel, about his service to their father, Laban. Jacob's life is marked by his journey from Canaan to Haran, his service to Laban, and his eventual return to Canaan. 2. Laban Jacob's father-in-law, who has employed Jacob for many years. Laban is known for his deceitful behavior, particularly in his dealings with Jacob. 3. Leah and Rachel Jacob's wives, who are the daughters of Laban. They play a crucial role in Jacob's decision to leave Laban and return to his homeland. 4. Haran The place where Jacob has been living and working for Laban. It is a significant location in Jacob's life, as it is where he builds his family and wealth. 5. Service and Labor The event of Jacob serving Laban with all his strength is central to this passage. It highlights Jacob's dedication and the challenges he faced under Laban's employment. Teaching Points Diligence in ServiceJacob's example teaches us the importance of working diligently and faithfully, even in challenging circumstances. As Christians, we are called to serve others with integrity and dedication. Trust in God's Provision Despite Laban's deceit, Jacob trusted in God's provision and protection. This reminds us to rely on God's faithfulness in our own lives, even when faced with adversity. Integrity in Relationships Jacob's relationship with Laban was marked by deceit and manipulation. As believers, we should strive for honesty and integrity in all our relationships, reflecting Christ's character. Perseverance Through Trials Jacob's perseverance through years of difficult service encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting that God is working for our good. God's Sovereignty Jacob's account is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to work through imperfect situations to fulfill His purposes. We can find comfort in knowing that God is in control of our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jacob's service to Laban reflect the biblical principle of working heartily as for the Lord? (Consider Colossians 3:23)2. In what ways can we demonstrate integrity and faithfulness in our own work environments, even when faced with challenging circumstances? 3. How does Jacob's trust in God's provision during his time with Laban encourage us to rely on God in our own lives? 4. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's perseverance through trials, and how can we apply these lessons to our own spiritual journey? 5. How does the account of Jacob and Laban illustrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our perspective on difficult situations we face? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 29:18-30This passage provides background on Jacob's initial agreement to work for Laban in exchange for marrying Rachel, which sets the stage for his long service. Colossians 3:23 This verse encourages believers to work heartily as for the Lord, not for men, which parallels Jacob's diligent service despite Laban's deceit. 1 Corinthians 10:31 This verse reminds believers to do everything for the glory of God, which can be related to Jacob's commitment to serving Laban with all his strength.
People Aram, Isaac, Jacob, Laban, Leah, Nahor, RachelPlaces Canaan, Euphrates River, Galeed, Gilead, Jegar-sahadutha, Mizpah, Paddan-aramTopics Power, Served, Strength, WorkedDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 31:1-24 5253 cheating Library Gen. xxxi. 11Of no less importance and significance is the passage Gen. xxxi. 11 seq. According to ver. 11, the Angel of God, [Hebrew: mlaK halhiM] appears toJacob in a dream. In ver. 13, the same person calls himself the God of Bethel, with reference to the event recorded in chap. xxviii. 11-22. It cannot be supposed that in chap xxviii. the mediation of a common angel took place, who, however, had not been expressly mentioned; for Jehovah is there contrasted with the angels. In ver. 12, we read: "And behold … Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Appendix xvi. On the Jewish views About Demons' and the Demonised,' Together with Some Notes on the Intercourse Between Jews and Jewish Christians in the First Centuries. How the Rude in Sacred Learning, and those who are Learned but not Humble, are to be Admonished. Epistle Xlix. To Anastasius, Bishop of Antioch . The Great Shepherd And He had Also this Favour Granted Him. ... A Treatise of the Fear of God; Meditations for the Morning. Genesis Links Genesis 31:6 NIVGenesis 31:6 NLT Genesis 31:6 ESV Genesis 31:6 NASB Genesis 31:6 KJV Genesis 31:6 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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