READ | SERMON NOTES
(Sermon notes and recording available after 1 Sep 2026.)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
- Study Scripture: Read Genesis 27:1-40
a. What do you notice about the different ways Isaac, Rebekah, Esau and Jacob each try to secure what they want in this chapter? What does each person believe they need to do to get “blessing”?
b. How does Genesis 27 echo some of the earlier stories in Genesis 1-11?
c. Look again at Genesis 27:33-40. What is striking about Isaac’s words to Esau? In what sense might Esau’s “blessing” actually be an anti-blessing – a blessing that has become a curse because blessing has become something to be competed over and taken? - Recall Sermon
a. Isaac, Rebekah, Esau and Jacob all contribute to the breakdown of the family in different ways. Where did you see yourself most clearly in this family?
b. What kinds of “blessing” are we most tempted to compete for today – success, recognition, money, status, security, attention, our children’s achievements, being right, being loved? How does our desire to secure these things for ourselves sometimes come at the cost of other people? - Relate Personally
a. Where am I tempted to grasp for something that God has not given me, rather than trust him to provide what I need?
b. Are there people I am tempted to see as competitors for blessing rather than people with whom I can share God’s blessing? What does that reveal about my understanding of God’s provision?
c. Where might my pursuit of blessing be creating relational damage in my family, friendships, workplace or church? - Commit to Action
a. Is there someone I have treated as a competitor rather than a recipient of God’s blessing? What would it look like to actively seek their good this week?
b. What is one concrete way I can use something God has blessed me with – my time, money, abilities, influence or attention – to extend blessing to someone else?
c. When I feel the need to secure my own status, success or approval, what could I do to remind myself of the gospel: Christ took the curse so that I could receive his blessing?
