Lesson – Genesis 28–33 Ladders and In-Laws

Jacob’s Ladder (Gen 28:12) What do we know about ladders? – They have rungs – They help you move upwards – They get you over a wall – They need a sturdy foundation Angels of God ascending and descending – Must be a connection between heaven and earth of some sort Gen 28: What does the ladder represent? – The Temple What are the rungs on the ladder? – Covenants (done in the temple)

Jacob’s Ladder (Gen 28:12) “Paul ascended into the third heavens, and he could understand the three principal rounds of Jacob’s ladder—the telestial, the terrestrial, and the celestial glories or kingdoms” - Joseph Smith

Jacob’s Ladder Gen 28:15, – Covenant between God and Jacob – Remember these promises… – Afterwards, Jacob builds an altar. Seems to be a common practice after dealing with the Lord Jacob named the place Beth-el. What does it mean? – Beth = “House” – El = “God” (think Elohim)

Jacob’s trip to Haran Esau wants to kill his Brother (Gen 27:41) – Any case he had is now down the drain Meets Rachel at the well (Gen 29) Marries her (and Leah) – we know that story, but it’s kind of a sign of things to come Gen – Basically problems with the in- laws. Jacob is blessed, Laban tries to take advantage of it. They decide to leave secretly (after 20 years)

The trip back Jacob heads back, Laban chases after them. Jacob is fed up (31:36-38) They eventually reconcile (Gen 31:43-44) – Another pile of rocks. It seems to represent where covenants are made. – How is this covenant different?

The trip back Jacob sends messengers ahead Gen 32:6 – Esau is coming with 400 men, probably to kill him. What does Jacob do? (v7-20) – Split into 2 bands – Prayed, reminded God of Abrahamic covenant – Sent groups ahead to bear gifts, offer servitude Esau finally meets up and what happens?

What do we learn from Jacob’s Journey? It seems a lot of growth happens during long travels. (symbolism? who else?) – Jacob sees God “face to face” (Gen 32:30) – Jacob’s name is changed to Israel (Gen 32:28) Time heals wounds – Jacob stayed away for 20 years. Esau probably thought his return was forgiveness and was grateful. – What a shame that quick judgment caused the rift in the first place. They were twin brothers; they did truly love each other – Why wait for separation to give us perspective?

Jacob’s Preparation Jacob feared the worst. What can we learn from his preparation? – Trust in the Lord and His promises – Do everything we can anyway – Fervent prayer/connection with God It’s still a hard thing to face the unknown.

Notebook Ideas What “unknowns” are you afraid of? What can you do to prepare to meet them? How do the stories of Jacob and his family help you understand how to keep strong relationships with your own kin? What other symbols of the temple can you think of?