Verse by Verse Bible Study

Randy Duncan unpacks Revelation chapter 7, providing a breathing space after the apocalyptic events of chapter six while revealing who can withstand God's wrath.• Four angels restraining destructive winds at earth's "four corners"—a figure of speech, not a cosmological statement• God's servants receive a protective seal before judgment occurs• The 144,000 sealed from Israel's tribes spark theological debate between literal and symbolic interpretations • A great multitude in white robes worship before God's throne with palm branches and songs of praise• Seven perfect attributes ascribed to God during heavenly worship• The multitude represents those who have come through the Great Tribulation• God will shelter His people eternally and "wipe away every tear"• This chapter answers chapter six's closing question: "Who can stand?"Join me next time as we open the seventh seal and continue our journey through Revelation.Intro music - Toby MacOutro music - CrowderSend us a textSupport the show

Dive deep into the Book of Revelation as we explore the dramatic opening of the seven seals by Jesus Christ, unleashing the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. In this episode, we unpack the terrifying judgments of conquest, war, famine, and death, as described by John.  Discover the dual interpretations of the rider on the white horse—Christ or Antichrist?—and the symbolic meaning behind the red, black, and pale horses. We also examine the fifth and sixth seals, revealing the cries of the martyrs and the cosmic upheaval signaling the end of the world as we know it.  Join us for a thought-provoking analysis of biblical prophecy, ancient symbolism, and modern implications. Whether you're a theology enthusiast or curious about end-time events, this episode offers a comprehensive look at one of the most mysterious and powerful passages in Scripture. Intro Music - Toby MacOutro Music - Elevation WorshipSend us a textFunny news, Real Talk & Spiritual Growth - Faith that's honest, Deep & Intentional Breaking down faith, culture & big questions - a mix of humor with real spiritual growth. Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Revelation chapter 5, highlighting the significance of the scroll sealed with seven seals that only the Lamb, representing Jesus Christ, can open. We explore themes of worthiness, redemption, and the profound response of worship from all of creation, culminating in a call for listeners to reflect on their personal worship and recognize the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice.• Examination of the scroll: its importance and symbolism of redemption• The challenge of worthiness: who can open the scroll?• John's emotional response: weeping for the lack of a worthy figure• The revelation of Jesus as the Lion and the Lamb: a divine paradox• Worship in heaven: the significance of communal praise• A universal call to recognize and respond to Christ's worthinessSend us a textSupport the show

In this episode, we shift from earth to heaven as we explore Revelation Chapter 4, where John is given a breathtaking vision of God's throne room. This short yet profound chapter introduces us to the majesty of God, the heavenly worship of the living creatures, and the symbolism of the 24 elders, all pointing to the greatness and holiness of our Creator.Key points covered include:The significance of the open door in heaven and its connection to divine revelation.The living creatures and their unceasing declaration: “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty.”The 24 elders casting their crowns, symbolizing the ultimate act of surrender and worship.How John's vision reminds us of God's sovereignty, holiness, and the purpose of worship in recognizing His glory.Join us as we reflect on how this heavenly scene can deepen our understanding of worship and encourage us to see God's glory in our lives.Support the show

Can spiritual complacency be deadly? In this compelling episode, we start by examining the church in Sardis, once a city of opulence and now a symbol of spiritual lethargy. We discuss how Jesus' harsh critique serves as a wake-up call to complete their works and avoid the fate of Cain's unacceptable offering. This segment will make you question whether you're merely going through the motions in your faith life and how to reignite your spiritual fervor.Turning our focus to Philadelphia, we delve into Jesus' uplifting message of divine authority and unwavering promise to the faithful. With references to Isaiah 22:22 and John 10:9, we unpack the powerful symbolism of the open door and Jesus' unique role as the gatekeeper to salvation. Our discussion also touches upon the contentious interpretation of Revelation 3:10 and the pre-tribulation rapture, setting the groundwork for more in-depth future explorations on this pivotal topic.Finally, we draw striking parallels between the church in Laodicea and modern American Christianity, emphasizing how material wealth can lead to spiritual blindness. Jesus' call to buy gold refined by fire—character built through affliction—serves as a poignant reminder of what truly matters. We wrap up our examination of the seven churches with a heartfelt reflection on Jesus' rebuke as an act of love, and how rekindling our first love and overcoming lukewarm devotion can lead to a deeper, more passionate faith journey.Ask Ralph - Christian FinanceJoin financial expert Ralph Estep, Jr - Daily tips for balancing your faith and finances. Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.

Revelation chapters 2, covering the letters to the churches in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. We start with Jesus' message to the church in Ephesus, where He acknowledges their hard work and endurance but also calls out their forsaken first love. Discover the significance of Ephesus, a city of 250,000 people, and its role as the guardian of the Roman imperial cult.Next, we move to Smyrna, the beautiful and loyal city, where Christians faced severe persecution. Learn about the trials they endured and Jesus' comforting words promising the crown of life to those who remain faithful unto death.In Pergamum, known for its many temples and the prominent altar to Zeus, we uncover the challenges Christians faced, including the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans. Jesus' message here emphasizes the need to hold fast to faith without compromising with pagan practices.Lastly, we explore Thyatira, a city of artisans and trade guilds, where the church is praised for their increasing works but warned against the false teachings of Jezebel. Jesus calls for repentance and promises authority over nations and the morning star to those who conquer.Join us as we uncover the historical and spiritual contexts of these ancient cities and the timeless lessons Jesus imparts to His followers.Inro mucic - Toby MacOutro music - Coldplay and ChainsmokersAsk Ralph - Christian FinanceJoin financial expert Ralph Estep, Jr - Daily tips for balancing your faith and finances. Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.

Are you ready to unlock the profound mysteries of the book of Revelation? This episode promises to demystify what many find daunting, offering a balanced approach that neither shies away from its complexities nor becomes lost in its prophetic depths. We begin by setting the stage with an introduction that includes the letters to the seven churches and the majestic heavenly throne room, providing a broad yet insightful look at the theological significance of these early chapters. Expect to gain a solid grasp of the four main interpretative views—Preterist, Historicist, Idealist, and Futurist—giving you the tools to appreciate the diverse ways Revelation can be understood.Ever wondered how God's timeless perspective transforms the nature of prophecy? We'll explore how the promises in Revelation defy our chronological expectations, coming to fruition suddenly and unexpectedly. Special attention is given to the blessing for those who read, hear, and obey this book, and John's greeting to the seven churches in Asia Minor, laden with the rich symbolism of the Trinity. The episode also delves into the prophetic vision of Jesus' return, emphasizing its universal witness, even by those who crucified Him. As John transitions into his detailed visions, we lay the groundwork for understanding the profound revelations that follow.What does it mean to hold fast to faith in the face of exile and hardship? We reflect on the Apostle John's unwavering faith despite his isolation on Patmos, drawing parallels to modern challenges in Christianity. The vision of Jesus, holding authority over death with a two-edged sword coming from His mouth, provides a powerful image of hope and triumph. We discuss the comforting message of "Fear not," resonating through the reactions of other biblical prophets to divine revelations. Join us as we draw inspiration from John's resilience, encouraging steadfast faith and hope even in today's trying circumstances.Support the Show.

We conclude our journey through the book of Genesis with the death of Joseph. This final chapter captures the poignant moment of Jacob's death, Joseph's deep grief, and the subsequent funeral procession from Egypt to Canaan. The embalming of Jacob, an Egyptian tradition not typically observed by the Israelites, is detailed, along with the practical reasons for this unique preparation.Witness the deep mourning that ensues, including the seven-day public lamentation and the 70-day period of grief, reflecting the profound respect the Egyptians had for Jacob. As Joseph seeks permission from Pharaoh to fulfill Jacob's final wish, we see a powerful exchange between two honorable men, showcasing the mutual trust and respect they shared.The episode explores the rich symbolism in the burial of Jacob, the intricate relationship dynamics among Joseph's brothers, and the culmination of Joseph's story in Egypt. The theme of reconciliation continues as Joseph forgives his brothers, reminding us of the power of faith and God's ultimate plan. This final chapter of Genesis provides profound insights into family, forgiveness, and the enduring promises of God. Tune in for an emotional and spiritually enriching conclusion to our study of Genesis."Intro music - Toby MacOutro music - ColdplaySupport the Show.

Jacob blesses his 12 sons from his deathbedDiscover the ancient words that shaped a nation as we journey through Genesis 49, where the patriarch Jacob delivers prophetic blessings with far-reaching impact. On the brink of his final breath, he speaks of futures written in the stars for the tribes descending from his sons, entwining moral judgments with predictions that would echo through history. From Reuben's squandered birthright to the violent legacy of Simeon and Levi, we uncover the rich tapestry of narratives that Jacob's declarations weave. Joined by renowned biblical scholars, we scrutinize the enigmatic "yaboshilo" phrase, debating its connection to messianic prophecy and its fulfillment through the line of Judah—a conversation that intertwines ancient scripture with New Testament revelations, presenting a kaleidoscope of interpretations for your contemplation.As Jacob's life ebbs away, his last words to his sons crystallize into a vision of the future, imprinting upon the tribes of Benjamin and beyond, presaging conflicts and kings. We honor the complexity of his final moments—the strategic burial instructions that tether him to the promised land and the reflection on a life marred by strife but ultimately redeemed. Our dialogue traverses the emotive landscape of Jacob's narrative, from the depths of family discord to the heights of patriarchal influence, inviting you to witness the close of an epoch and the lasting resonance of Jacob's legacy in the biblical saga.Support the show

Ever wondered why the younger often outshines the elder in biblical narratives? Join me, Randy Duncan, as we uncover the powerful and prophetic moment when Jacob chooses Ephraim over Manasseh, altering the course of Israel's tribes forever. Unpack the layers of this ancient drama in Genesis 48 and grasp the full weight of Jacob's blessings, his strategic choice for burial in Canaan, and the legal dance between rights and destinies. This journey through the biblical text is more than a history lesson; it's a window into the soul of a family chosen by God. As we explore Joseph's steadfast respect for his father, despite his Egyptian prominence, and the impact of Jacob's preferential blessing, we'll uncover how the echoes of these decisions resonate in our lives today. Feel the emotional gravity of Jacob's final interactions with his progeny, and let's discover together the timeless message of spiritual legacies that far outweigh earthly treasures.Support the show

Genesis 47 covers the pending death of Jacob, as well as Joseph's ongoing administration of the famine in EgyptDiscover the strategic genius of Joseph as he maneuvers his family's settlement in Goshen, a tale that not only reveals the savvy behind ancient biblical survival but also touches on the importance of kindness toward strangers—a theme that resonates today. As your guide, Randy Duncan, I'll lead you through the complex dynamics of Joseph's interactions with Pharaoh, their occupation as shepherds, and the profound impact of Jacob's encounter with Egypt's ruler. This narrative is more than a historical account; it's a lesson in emotional intelligence and strategic planning, set against the backdrop of a nation's transformation during a time of crisis.Witness the brilliant administration of Joseph as he steers Egypt through a severe famine, reshaping the nation's social structure and economy. The irony of history's fleeting memory is laid bare as we explore how Joseph's contributions are later forgotten by a future Pharaoh, setting the stage for Moses and the ten plagues. Your listening experience will be enriched with insights into the power of oath-taking, the significance of Jacob's burial request, and the lasting influence of blessings and curses on the destiny of nations. Through this exploration, we'll appreciate the enduring relevance of these ancient narratives.Concluding our journey, we'll contrast the temporal power of the Egyptian pharaohs with the spiritual legacy left by Jacob and Joseph. Our reflections will pivot to the eternal sustenance offered by Jesus Christ, drawing a parallel to Joseph's provision during famine. This episode offers a tapestry of legacies, from the ephemeral glory of the pharaohs to the transcendent spiritual fulfillment found in the biblical stories that have shaped our moral landscape. Join me as we traverse these rich historical and spiritual terrains, examining the imperishable impact of faith and the true nourishment that sustains us through the ages.Intro music by Toby MacOutro music by Lathan WarlickSupport the show

Genesis chapter 46 recounts the journey of Jacob and his family to Egypt. Faced with a severe famine in Canaan, Jacob is persuaded by his son Joseph, who is a high official in Egypt, to relocate the entire family to Egypt, where there is an abundance of food.  It emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promise to make a great nation out of Jacob's descendants, and also highlights the reunion of Jacob with his beloved son Joseph after years of separation, marking a significant and emotional moment in the family's history.Support the show

Genesis 45 is a pivotal moment in the Joseph narrative. In this chapter, Joseph reveals his true identity to his brothers, who had sold him into slavery many years earlier. Overwhelmed with emotion, Joseph forgives his brothers for their past actions and reassures them that God had orchestrated these events for a greater purpose. Joseph urges his brothers to bring their father, Jacob, and their families to Egypt to escape the ongoing famine. The chapter highlights themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and God's providence in the face of challenging circumstances.Support the show

Genesis 44 is a pivotal chapter which leads up to the revelation of Joseph's true identity and the eventual reconciliation of Joseph with his brothers. It highlights themes of deception, forgiveness, and the ultimate providence of God in the midst of human trials.Support the show

In Genesis 43, Joseph's brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin. Joseph tests them while continuing to conceal his true identity, leading to his being overcome with emotions. Support the show

Joseph's brothers travel to Egypt, and come face-to-face with Joseph after 20 yearsIntro  -Toby MacOutro - Third DaySupport the show

Joseph interprets dreams for Pharaoh and is made vizier in EgyptIntro music by Toby Macoutro music by Zach WilliamsSupport the show

The story of Joseph interpreting dreams for Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker while in prisonSupport the show

Joseph is seduced by Potiphar's wife, and after his refusal, is accused of attempted rape and imprisonedSupport the show

Judah deceives his daughter-in-law Tamar, but is soon deceived by her. What can we learn from this seemingly out-of-place story that interrupts the story of Joseph? Intro Music - Toby MacOutro Music - Zach WilliamsSupport the show

Genesis chapter 37 - Joseph's dreams, Joseph sold into slavery by his brothers and taken to EgyptIntro music - Toby MacOutro music - Rob ThomasSupport the show

Genesis chapter 35, which includes the renaming of Jacob to Israel, as well as the deaths of Rachel and Isaac. Support the show

Genesis 34 covers the rape of Jacob's daughter Dinah. Simeon and Levi exact revenge.Intro music by Toby MacOutro music by Zack Williams

Jacob finally faces his brother Esau after 20 years

Jacob wrestles with God, and has his name changed to IsraelIntro Music by Toby MacOutro Music by NF (feat. Ruelle)

Jacob flees Laban and returns to his homeland.Now Jacob heard that the sons of Laban were saying, “Jacob has taken all that was our father's, and from what was our father's he has gained all this wealth.” 2 And Jacob saw that Laban did not regard him with favor as before. 3 Then the Lord said to Jacob, “Return to the land of your fathers and to your kindred, and I will be with you.”4 So Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah into the field where his flock was 5 and said to them, “I see that your father does not regard me with favor as he did before. But the God of my father has been with me. 6 You know that I have served your father with all my strength, 7 yet your father has cheated me and changed my wages ten times. But God did not permit him to harm me.  17 So Jacob arose and set his sons and his wives on camels. 18 He drove away all his livestock, all his property that he had gained, the livestock in his possession that he had acquired in Paddan-aram, to go to the land of Canaan to his father Isaac. 19 Laban had gone to shear his sheep, and Rachel stole her father's household gods. 20 And Jacob tricked Laban the Aramean, by not telling him that he intended to flee. 21 He fled with all that he had and arose and crossed the Euphrates, and set his face toward the hill country of Gilead.22 When it was told Laban on the third day that Jacob had fled, 23 he took his kinsmen with him and pursued him for seven days and followed close after him into the hill country of Gilead. 24 But God came to Laban the Aramean in a dream by night and said to him, “Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad.”25 And Laban overtook Jacob. Now Jacob had pitched his tent in the hill country, and Laban with his kinsmen pitched tents in the hill country of Gilead. 26 And Laban said to Jacob, “What have you done, that you have tricked me and driven away my daughters like captives of the sword? 27 Why did you flee secretly and trick me, and did not tell me, so that I might have sent you away with mirth and songs, with tambourine and lyre? 28 And why did you not permit me to kiss my sons and my daughters farewell? Now you have done foolishly. 29 It is in my power to do you harm. But the God of your[c] father spoke to me last night, saying, ‘Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad.' 30 And now you have gone away because you longed greatly for your father's house, but why did you steal my gods?” 31 Jacob answered and said to Laban, “Because I was afraid, for I thought that you would take your daughters from me by force. 32 Anyone with whom you find your gods shall not live. In the presence of our kinsmen point out what I have that is yours, and take it.” Now Jacob did not know that Rachel had stolen them.33 So Laban went into Jacob's tent and into Leah's tent and into the tent of the two female servants, but he did not find them. And he went out of Leah's tent and entered Rachel's. 34 Now Rachel had taken the household gods and put them in the camel's saddle and sat on them. Laban felt all about the tent, but did not find them. 35 And she said to her father, “Let not my lord be angry that I cannot rise before you, for the way of women is upon me.” So he searched but did not find the household gods.

Jacob and Laban continued, the birth of Jacob's sonsRandyDuncan.comFacebook pageLeave Podcast Review on Apple Podcast

Genesis chapter 29 - Jacob marries Rachel.Jacob Marries Leah and Rachel29 Then Jacob went on his journey and came to the land of the people of the east. 2 As he looked, he saw a well in the field, and behold, three flocks of sheep lying beside it, for out of that well the flocks were watered. The stone on the well's mouth was large, 3 and when all the flocks were gathered there, the shepherds would roll the stone from the mouth of the well and water the sheep, and put the stone back in its place over the mouth of the well.4 Jacob said to them, “My brothers, where do you come from?” They said, “We are from Haran.” 5 He said to them, “Do you know Laban the son of Nahor?” They said, “We know him.” 6 He said to them, “Is it well with him?” They said, “It is well; and see, Rachel his daughter is coming with the sheep!” 7 He said, “Behold, it is still high day; it is not time for the livestock to be gathered together. Water the sheep and go, pasture them.” 8 But they said, “We cannot until all the flocks are gathered together and the stone is rolled from the mouth of the well; then we water the sheep.”  9 While he was still speaking with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep, for she was a shepherdess. 10 Now as soon as Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother's brother, and the sheep of Laban his mother's brother, Jacob came near and rolled the stone from the well's mouth and watered the flock of Laban his mother's brother. 11 Then Jacob kissed Rachel and wept aloud. 12 And Jacob told Rachel that he was her father's kinsman, and that he was Rebekah's son, and she ran and told her father.13 As soon as Laban heard the news about Jacob, his sister's son, he ran to meet him and embraced him and kissed him and brought him to his house. Jacob told Laban all these things, 14 and Laban said to him, “Surely you are my bone and my flesh!” And he stayed with him a month.15 Then Laban said to Jacob, “Because you are my kinsman, should you therefore serve me for nothing? Tell me, what shall your wages be?” 16 Now Laban had two daughters. The name of the older was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. 17 Leah's eyes were weak, but Rachel was beautiful in form and appearance. 18 Jacob loved Rachel. And he said, “I will serve you seven years for your younger daughter Rachel.” 19 Laban said, “It is better that I give her to you than that I should give her to any other man; stay with me.” 20 So Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed to him but a few days because of the love he had for her.  21 Then Jacob said to Laban, “Give me my wife that I may go in to her, for my time is completed.” 22 So Laban gathered together all the people of the place and made a feast. 23 But in the evening he took his daughter Leah and brought her to Jacob, and he went in to her. 25 And in the morning, behold, it was Leah! And Jacob said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? Did I not serve with you for Rachel? Why then have you deceived me?” 26 Laban said, “It is not so done in our country, to give the younger before the firstborn. 27 Complete the week of this one, and we will give you the other also in return for serving me another seven years.” 28 Jacob did so, and completed her week. Then Laban gave him his daughter Rachel to be his wife.  30 So Jacob went in to Rachel also, and he loved Rachel more than Leah, and served Laban for another seven years. 35 And she conceived again and bore a son, and said, “This time I will praise the Lord.” Therefore she called his name Judah. Then she ceased bearing.

Jacob's LadderThen Isaac called Jacob and blessed him and directed him, “You must not take a wife from the Canaanite women. 2 Arise, go to Paddan-aram to the house of Bethuel your mother's father, and take as your wife from there one of the daughters of Laban your mother's brother. 3 God Almighty[a] bless you and make you fruitful and multiply you, that you may become a company of peoples. 4 May he give the blessing of Abraham to you and to your offspring with you, that you may take possession of the land of your sojournings that God gave to Abraham!” 5 Thus Isaac sent Jacob away. And he went to Paddan-aram, to Laban, the son of Bethuel the Aramean, the brother of Rebekah, Jacob's and Esau's mother.Esau Marries an Ishmaelite6 Now Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and sent him away to Paddan-aram to take a wife from there, and that as he blessed him he directed him, “You must not take a wife from the Canaanite women,” 7 and that Jacob had obeyed his father and his mother and gone to Paddan-aram. 8 So when Esau saw that the Canaanite women did not please Isaac his father, 9 Esau went to Ishmael and took as his wife, besides the wives he had, Mahalath the daughter of Ishmael, Abraham's son, the sister of Nebaioth.Jacob's Dream10 Jacob left Beersheba and went toward Haran. 11 And he came to a certain place and stayed there that night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place to sleep. 12 And he dreamed, and behold, there was a ladder[b] set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven. And behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it! 13 And behold, the Lord stood above it[c] and said, “I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring. 14 Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south, and in you and your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed. 15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” 16 Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” 17 And he was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.”18 So early in the morning Jacob took the stone that he had put under his head and set it up for a pillar and poured oil on the top of it. 19 He called the name of that place Bethel,[d] but the name of the city was Luz at the first. 20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat and clothing to wear, 21 so that I come again to my father's house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God, 22 and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God's house. And of all that you give me I will give a full tenth to you.”

 19 Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn. I have done as you told me; now sit up and eat of my game, that your soul may bless me.” 20 But Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have found it so quickly, my son?” He answered, “Because the Lord your God granted me success.” 21 Then Isaac said to Jacob, “Please come near, that I may feel you, my son, to know whether you are really my son Esau or not.” 22 So Jacob went near to Isaac his father, who felt him and said, “The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” 23 And he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau's hands. So he blessed him. 24 He said, “Are you really my son Esau?” He answered, “I am.” 25 Then he said, “Bring it near to me, that I may eat of my son's game and bless you.” So he brought it near to him, and he ate; and he brought him wine, and he drank. 26 Then his father Isaac said to him, “Come near and kiss me, my son.” 27 So he came near and kissed him. And Isaac smelled the smell of his garments and blessed him and said, “See, the smell of my son is as the smell of a field that the Lord has blessed! 28 May God give you of the dew of heaven  and of the fatness of the earth  and plenty of grain and wine. 30 As soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob, when Jacob had scarcely gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, Esau his brother came in from his hunting. 31 He also prepared delicious food and brought it to his father. And he said to his father, “Let my father arise and eat of his son's game, that you may bless me.” 32 His father Isaac said to him, “Who are you?” He answered, “I am your son, your firstborn, Esau.” 33 Then Isaac trembled very violently and said, “Who was it then that hunted game and brought it to me, and I ate it all before you came, and I have blessed him? Yes, and he shall be blessed.” 34 As soon as Esau heard the words of his father, he cried out with an exceedingly great and bitter cry and said to his father, “Bless me, even me also, O my father!” 35 But he said, “Your brother came deceitfully, and he has taken away your blessing.” 36 Esau said, “Is he not rightly named Jacob?  For he has cheated me these two times. He took away my birthright, and behold, now he has taken away my blessing.” Then he said, “Have you not reserved a blessing for me?” 37 Isaac answered and said to Esau, “Behold, I have made him lord over you, and all his brothers I have given to him for servants, and with grain and wine I have sustained him. What then can I do for you, my son?” 38 Esau said to his father, “Have you but one blessing, my father? Bless me, even me also, O my father.” And Esau lifted up his voice and wept.  41 Now Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing with which his father had blessed him, and Esau said to himself, “The days of mourning for my father are approaching; then I will kill my brother Jacob.” 42 But the words of Esau her older son were told to Rebekah. So she sent and called Jacob her younger son and said to him, “Behold, your brother Esau comforts himself about you by planning to kill you. 43 Now therefore, my son, obey my voice. Arise, flee to Laban my brother in Haran 44 and stay with him a while, until your brother's fury turns away— 45 until your brother's anger turns away from you, and he forgets what you have done to him. Then I will send and bring you from there. Why should I be bereft of you both in one day?”

Bible Study Genesis Chapter 27:1-17...Verse by Verse with Randy Duncan

In this episode, Randy Duncan covers Genesis chapter 26, and discusses Isaac, Rebekah, and Abimelech

the death of Abraham and the birth of Esau and Jacob

Isaac and Rebekah continued...29 Rebekah had a brother whose name was Laban. Laban ran out toward the man, to the spring. 30 As soon as he saw the ring and the bracelets on his sister's arms, and heard the words of Rebekah his sister, “Thus the man spoke to me,” he went to the man. And behold, he was standing by the camels at the spring. 31 He said, “Come in, O blessed of the Lord. Why do you stand outside? For I have prepared the house and a place for the camels.”34 So he said, “I am Abraham's servant. 35 The Lord has greatly blessed my master, and he has become great. He has given him flocks and herds, silver and gold, male servants and female servants, camels and donkeys. 36 And Sarah my master's wife bore a son to my master when she was old, and to him he has given all that he has. 37 My master made me swear, saying, ‘You shall not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell, 38 but you shall go to my father's house and to my clan and take a wife for my son.' 39 I said to my master, ‘Perhaps the woman will not follow me.' 40 But he said to me, ‘The Lord, before whom I have walked, will send his angel with you and prosper your way. You shall take a wife for my son from my clan and from my father's house. 41 Then you will be free from my oath, when you come to my clan. And if they will not give her to you, you will be free from my oath.'50 Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, “The thing has come from the Lord; we cannot speak to you bad or good. 51 Behold, Rebekah is before you; take her and go, and let her be the wife of your master's son, as the Lord has spoken.”52 When Abraham's servant heard their words, he bowed himself to the earth before the Lord. 53 And the servant brought out jewelry of silver and of gold, and garments, and gave them to Rebekah. He also gave to her brother and to her mother costly ornaments. 54 And he and the men who were with him ate and drank, and they spent the night there. When they arose in the morning, he said, “Send me away to my master.” 55 Her brother and her mother said, “Let the young woman remain with us a while, at least ten days; after that she may go.” 56 But he said to them, “Do not delay me, since the Lord has prospered my way. Send me away that I may go to my master.” 57 They said, “Let us call the young woman and ask her.” 58 And they called Rebekah and said to her, “Will you go with this man?” She said, “I will go.” 59 So they sent away Rebekah their sister and her nurse, and Abraham's servant and his men. 60 And they blessed Rebekah and said to her,62 Now Isaac had returned from Beer-lahai-roi and was dwelling in the Negeb. 63 And Isaac went out to meditate in the field toward evening. And he lifted up his eyes and saw, and behold, there were camels coming. 64 And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she dismounted from the camel 65 and said to the servant, “Who is that man, walking in the field to meet us?” The servant said, “It is my master.” So she took her veil and covered herself. 66 And the servant told Isaac all the things that he had done. 67 Then Isaac brought her into the tent of Sarah his mother and took Rebekah, and she became his wife, and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.

Isaac and RebekahNow Abraham was old, well advanced in years. And the Lord had blessed Abraham in all things. 2 And Abraham said to his servant, the oldest of his household, who had charge of all that he had, “Put your hand under my thigh, 3 that I may make you swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and God of the earth, that you will not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell, 4 but will go to my country and to my kindred, and take a wife for my son Isaac.” 5 The servant said to him, “Perhaps the woman may not be willing to follow me to this land. Must I then take your son back to the land from which you came?” 6 Abraham said to him, “See to it that you do not take my son back there. 7 The Lord, the God of heaven, who took me from my father's house and from the land of my kindred, and who spoke to me and swore to me, ‘To your offspring I will give this land,' he will send his angel before you, and you shall take a wife for my son from there. 8 But if the woman is not willing to follow you, then you will be free from this oath of mine; only you must not take my son back there.” 9 So the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master and swore to him concerning this matter. 10 Then the servant took ten of his master's camels and departed, taking all sorts of choice gifts from his master; and he arose and went to Mesopotamia[a] to the city of Nahor. 11 And he made the camels kneel down outside the city by the well of water at the time of evening, the time when women go out to draw water. 12 And he said, “O Lord, God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today and show steadfast love to my master Abraham. 13 Behold, I am standing by the spring of water, and the daughters of the men of the city are coming out to draw water. 14 Let the young woman to whom I shall say, ‘Please let down your jar that I may drink,' and who shall say, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels'—let her be the one whom you have appointed for your servant Isaac. By this[b] I shall know that you have shown steadfast love to my master.” 15 Before he had finished speaking, behold, Rebekah, who was born to Bethuel the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, came out with her water jar on her shoulder. 16 The young woman was very attractive in appearance, a maiden whom no man had known. She went down to the spring and filled her jar and came up. 17 Then the servant ran to meet her and said, “Please give me a little water to drink from your jar.” 18 She said, “Drink, my lord.” And she quickly let down her jar upon her hand and gave him a drink. 19 When she had finished giving him a drink, she said, “I will draw water for your camels also, until they have finished drinking.” 20 So she quickly emptied her jar into the trough and ran again to the well to draw water, and she drew for all his camels. 21 The man gazed at her in silence to learn whether the Lord had prospered his journey or not. 22 When the camels had finished drinking, the man took a gold ring weighing a half shekel,and two bracelets for her arms weighing ten gold shekels, 23 and said, “Please tell me whose daughter you are. Is there room in your father's house for us to spend the night?” 24 She said to him, “I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, whom she bore to Nahor.” 25 She added, “We have plenty of both straw and fodder, and room to spend the night.” 26 The man bowed his head and worshiped the Lord 27 and said, “Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken his steadfast love and his

Sarah's Death and Burial

The sacrifice of IsaacAfter these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 2 He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” 3 So Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and his son Isaac. And he cut the wood for the burnt offering and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. 4 On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the place from afar. 5 Then Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; I and the boy[a] will go over there and worship and come again to you.” 6 And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son. And he took in his hand the fire and the knife. So they went both of them together. 7 And Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” He said, “Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” 8 Abraham said, “God will provide for himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So they went both of them together.9 When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. 10 Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. 11 But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 12 He said, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” 13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son. 14 So Abraham called the name of that place, “The Lord will provide”;[b] as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”[c]15 And the angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time from heaven 16 and said, “By myself I have sworn, declares the Lord, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, 17 I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his[d] enemies, 18 and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.” 19 So Abraham returned to his young men, and they arose and went together to Beersheba. And Abraham lived at Beersheba.

The birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah, and the treaty between Abraham and Abimelech21 The Lord visited Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did to Sarah as he had promised. 2 And Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God had spoken to him. 3 Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore him, Isaac. 4 And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him. 5 Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. 6 And Sarah said, “God has made laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh over me.” 7 And she said, “Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.”  8 And the child grew and was weaned. And Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned. 9 But Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, laughing.10 So she said to Abraham, “Cast out this slave woman with her son, for the son of this slave woman shall not be heir with my son Isaac.” 11 And the thing was very displeasing to Abraham on account of his son. 12 But God said to Abraham, “Be not displeased because of the boy and because of your slave woman. Whatever Sarah says to you, do as she tells you, for through Isaac shall your offspring be named. 13 And I will make a nation of the son of the slave woman also, because he is your offspring.” 14 So Abraham rose early in the morning and took bread and a skin of water and gave it to Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, along with the child, and sent her away. And she departed and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba. 15 When the water in the skin was gone, she put the child under one of the bushes. 16 Then she went and sat down opposite him a good way off, about the distance of a bowshot, for she said, “Let me not look on the death of the child.” And as she sat opposite him, she lifted up her voice and wept. 17 And God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What troubles you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is. 18 Up! Lift up the boy, and hold him fast with your hand, for I will make him into a great nation.” 19 Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. 20 And God was with the boy, and he grew up. He lived in the wilderness and became an expert with the bow. 21 He lived in the wilderness of Paran, and his mother took a wife for him from the land of Egypt. 22 At that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army said to Abraham, “God is with you in all that you do. 23 Now therefore swear to me here by God that you will not deal falsely with me or with my descendants or with my posterity, but as I have dealt kindly with you, so you will deal with me and with the land where you have sojourned.” 24 And Abraham said, “I will swear.” 25 When Abraham reproved Abimelech about a well of water that Abimelech's servants had seized, 26 Abimelech said, “I do not know who has done this thing; you did not tell me, and I have not heard of it until today.” 27 So Abraham took sheep and oxen and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a covenant. 28 Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock apart. 29 And Abimelech said to Abraham, “What is the meaning of these seven ewe lambs that you have set apart?” 30 He said, “These seven ewe lambs you will take from my hand, that this may be a witness for me that I dug this well.”  

Lot sleeps with his two daughters, and Abraham's confrontation with Abimelech

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah 10 But the men reached out their hands and brought Lot into the house with them and shut the door. 11 And they struck with blindness the men who were at the entrance of the house, both small and great, so that they wore themselves out groping for the door.12 Then the men said to Lot, “Have you anyone else here? Sons-in-law, sons, daughters, or anyone you have in the city, bring them out of the place. 13 For we are about to destroy this place, because the outcry against its people has become great before the Lord, and the Lord has sent us to destroy it.” 14 So Lot went out and said to his sons-in-law, who were to marry his daughters, “Up! Get out of this place, for the Lord is about to destroy the city.” But he seemed to his sons-in-law to be jesting.15 As morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be swept away in the punishment of the city.” 16 But he lingered. So the men seized him and his wife and his two daughters by the hand, the Lord being merciful to him, and they brought him out and set him outside the city. 17 And as they brought them out, one said, “Escape for your life. Do not look back or stop anywhere in the valley. Escape to the hills, lest you be swept away.” 18 And Lot said to them, “Oh, no, my lords. 19 Behold, your servant has found favor in your sight, and you have shown me great kindness in saving my life. But I cannot escape to the hills, lest the disaster overtake me and I die. 20 Behold, this city is near enough to flee to, and it is a little one. Let me escape there—is it not a little one?—and my life will be saved!” 21 He said to him, “Behold, I grant you this favor also, that I will not overthrow the city of which you have spoken. 22 Escape there quickly, for I can do nothing till you arrive there.” Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.[a]God Destroys Sodom23 The sun had risen on the earth when Lot came to Zoar. 24 Then the Lord rained on Sodom and Gomorrah sulfur and fire from the Lord out of heaven. 25 And he overthrew those cities, and all the valley, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and what grew on the ground. 26 But Lot's wife, behind him, looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.27 And Abraham went early in the morning to the place where he had stood before the Lord. 28 And he looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah and toward all the land of the valley, and he looked and, behold, the smoke of the land went up like the smoke of a furnace.29 So it was that, when God destroyed the cities of the valley, God remembered Abraham and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow when he overthrew the cities in which Lot had lived.

The two angels enter Sodom and prepare for destruction of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah

Verse By Verse Bible study of Genesis Chapter 18  as God prepare for the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

In this episode, Randy Duncan covers God's covenant with Abraham, the covenant of circumcision, and the promise of the long-awaited son, Isaac

Abraham has Ishmael born to him by Hagar

God's covenant with Abraham. 

Randy Duncan covers Genesis chapter 14 in this verse by verse Bible study podcast. In this chapter, he discusses Abraham's rescue of Lot, Melchizedek, and the king of Sodom.

In this verse by verse Bible study, Randy Duncan covers chapter 13, discussing Abraham and Lot's separation

Randy Duncan completes Genesis chapter 12 , discussing Abraham's going down to Egypt and Sarah being taken by Pharaoh

Randy Duncan completed chapter 11, and begins a study of God's call of Abraham. 

Randy Duncan discusses Genesis chapter 10 and begins chapter 11 with a focus on the Tower of Babel

In this episode Randy Duncan discusses Noah getting drunk, and the curse on Canaan.