Life in God's Family

Life in God’s Family

Genesis 46:1-30

As Christ-followers we get to be members of God’s family!

I live under the loving-protection of God our Father. (1-7)

I always have a place to belong. (8-27)

I know that God cares about me. (28-30)

For the Next Lesson – Genesis 46:1-30

1. Read verse 1. Where is Beersheba, and why do you think Jacob offered sacrifices there? Note that Jacob offered sacrifices to the God “of his father Isaac”. Jacob enjoyed a spiritual legacy from his father. From whom have you received a spiritual legacy? Parents, grandparents, friend, someone else? Many times we receive a spiritual legacy from many different people. Who are these people in your life? Take a moment to thank God for these people. To whom are you passing on a spiritual legacy, and how are you going about it?

2. Read verses 2-4. How did God identify himself as he spoke to Jacob? What is the significance of this? What command did God give Jacob? Does this command apply to you? How so? What are the four promises God gave? Which of these promises applies to you, and how does it apply?

3. Read verses 5-27. Why do you think God takes the time to specifically describe the Hebrew people who first lived in Egypt (consider Genesis 46:2-4; Exodus 1:1-7, 12:40-42)? What can we learn about God’s character and his power? Why is this important to remember in our own lives?

4. Read verses 28-30. Take a few moments to imagine the scene that is described here. What did the land look like? What were the smells, sounds and emotions? What were the children, grandchildren thinking? What was Jacob experiencing and feeling as he embraced his beloved son after 22 years thinking he was dead? How do you think Jacob’s experience here will compare to our experience when we finally come into the presence of our Savior?

5. So what? What is one specific thing are you taking away from this passage that applies to your daily walk with God, and how does it apply?