Whom Shall I Fear?

Whom Shall I Fear?

Genesis 31:17-55

Follow God; Fear Him Alone.

Laban chases Jacob. (17-25)

Laban accuses Jacob but fears God. (26-35)

Jacob berates Laban and fears God.

Jacob agrees to a treaty with Laban but fears God.

For the Next Lesson – Genesis 31:17-55

1. Read verses 17-25. What were Jacob and his family doing? What are “household gods”, and why do you think Rachel stole them? How did Laban respond to their departure? What did God say to Laban about Jacob? One way to define idol is anything that we prioritize, trust or value more than God. Do you have any “household god’s” or idols in your life? What do you prioritize, trust or value more than God in your life?

2. Read verses 26-35. What accusations did Laban make against Jacob, and which of these accusations was true? How did Jacob respond to Laban’s accusations, and how was Rachel a part of this? How did Rachel’s choice to steal lead to more deception in this passage? How can our own sinful and wrong choices lead to more sinful and wrong choices? How can thinking through this help us to make good, right and wise choices?

3. Read verses 36-42. How did Jacob respond to Laban’s accusations in these verses? How was God involved in Jacob’s life through all the years of hardship? How can you see God involved in your life during a time of hardship? Note that God is called the “Fear of Isaac” in verse 42. What does this teach us about Isaac’s view of God, and what is meant by “Fear”? Would anyone say that God is the “Fear” of you? Why or why not?

4. Read verse 43-55. Why do you think Laban was so motivated to get a covenant/treaty in place? Why do you think Laban would be calling on God as witness and judge in the covenant when he had his own “household gods”? Do you count on God to be the one that watches over you and your loved ones? Do you look only to God to be your witness and for approval? What prevents you from counting on God and looking to God? How could you grow in this area?