Focal Passage: Genesis 27:35-41; 33:1-4, 8-11  Isaac and Rebekah’s favoritism spawned a family rivalry between their sons Esau and Jacob. Jacob and Rebekah’s deception threatened to destroy the family forever. Yet, Jacob desired to return to the land promised to his grandfather Abraham. That would require restoration of family ties long severed. The reconciliation between Jacob and Esau provides hope for families broken asunder by hatred and deception.  Hatred should

The patriarchal blessing founded by God through the family of Abraham carried with it the very promise of salvation for humanity, ultimately fulfilled in God’s only Son, Jesus the Messiah. However, this “first family” was not without its problems. In their favoritism Isaac and Rebekah infused in their children a rivalry that had disastrous consequences for their descendants.  Never let family differences breed favoritism. From the very birth of Esau

Focal Passage: Genesis 13:5-11, 14-18  Families often face difficult crossroads of conflict. Problems can arise when we only look after our own interests. Abram and Lot responded to a family squabble by wisely deciding to part ways. However, Lot’s decision, out of greed and self-conceit, would result in life-altering consequences.  Identify the source of conflict. News flash: families fight! It is a reality of life today as it was in

Focal Passages: Genesis 4:1-12  We begin a new six-week study on family relationships and how they are to pattern our connection with the community at large. We start with the tragedy of Cain and Abel. This story provides deep insights into the human condition and the importance of taking the responsibility to look after our family members and our neighbors in the community and the world.  God has created each

Focal Passage: Philippians 1:1-11  The final study on God’s purpose for His people focuses on the importance of ministry partnerships and glorifying God through consistent and lifelong service to the kingdom of God.   Give thanks for ministry partnership. The book of Philippians is often called the Letter of Joy, but Paul wrote it while a prisoner. Philippi was a city in Macedonia (northern Greece) that had a thriving church