Podcasts about Esau

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comHebrews 12Believers are called to run the race of faith with endurance, keeping their eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross and is now exalted. His example provides strength during trials. God disciplines His children to shape their character and lead them into holiness. Although painful at the moment, His discipline produces peace and righteousness. The chapter urges believers to strengthen those who are weary, pursue peace, and live in holiness. They are cautioned not to be like Esau, who gave up his birthright for temporary gain. A contrast is drawn between Mount Sinai, marked by fear, and Mount Zion, where believers come to a joyful gathering with angels, the redeemed, and God. Since they are receiving an unshakable kingdom, they must worship God with reverence, for He is a consuming fire. We are running a race that requires endurance, and we are not alone. Others have gone before us, and Jesus leads the way. He faced the cross, suffered with purpose, and is now seated in glory. When we go through hardship, it is not punishment but loving discipline from God. He is shaping us, teaching us, and helping us grow. His discipline may be difficult, but it brings peace and righteousness in the end. We must encourage those who are weak, pursue peace with everyone, and live holy lives. We are not standing in fear like those at Mount Sinai. We have come to something greater, a heavenly kingdom. Let us worship God with reverence, for He is holy and present. Holy Father, thank You for Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. He endured the cross, faced shame, and now sits at Your right hand in glory. We will fix our eyes on Him when we grow tired or discouraged. Teach us to see Your discipline as love, shaping us into who You have called us to be. Strengthen us to walk in peace and holiness. May we never exchange Your promises for temporary comfort. Remind us that we belong to a kingdom that cannot be shaken, preserved by the blood of the new covenant in Jesus' name.  Thought Questions: What does it mean for you to have your eyes fixed on Jesus? How does He help you see that discipline is a part of honoring the Father? Is it important for Christians to feel cared for and supported? How do you regularly go about strengthening the weak among God's people? You have come to Mount Zion. What do you see, by faith, upon that mountain? And how does this view motivate reverence for God?

In this fascinating episode of Sasquatch Odyssey,  Brian welcomes Justin from Tennessee — Bigfoot researcher, conference speaker, and author of The Epic of Esau: The Birthright and Seed War — for an in-depth discussion on the connections between biblical history, ancient mythology, and modern Bigfoot encounters.Justin shares how his interest in Sasquatch began not in the woods, but in the Bible, where a passage referencing “hairy men” and “wild men of the wilderness” sparked his curiosity.That single verse led him on a journey through scripture, history, and legend, uncovering surprising links between the biblical Nephilim, Amalekites, and the mysterious beings we know today as Bigfoot. The conversation delves deep into Justin's research — from his experiences at the Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference to his comparative studies of ancient texts, apocryphal writings, and cross-cultural myths that describe giant or hairy beings with supernatural qualities. Together, Brian and Justin discuss the scientific challenges of studying Bigfoot, the academic resistance to cryptid research, and the divide within the Bigfoot community between those who see Sasquatch as purely physical versus those who believe it may also have spiritual or interdimensional aspects.Justin also discusses his book, The Epic of Esau, which combines biblical interpretation, mythological analysis, and anthropological theory to present a unique framework for understanding Bigfoot's origins — one that could bridge faith, science, and folklore.This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the possibility that ancient texts and sacred stories may hold forgotten truths about the Sasquatch phenomenon. Whether you lean toward science, spirituality, or both, this thought-provoking discussion will challenge what you thought you knew about Bigfoot — and human history itself. Get Justin's BookGet Our FREE NewsletterGet Brian's Books Leave Us A VoicemailVisit Our WebsiteSupport Our SponsorsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sasquatch-odyssey--4839697/support.

In this explosive episode, I sit down with Justin “Doc” Brown┃Prometheus Lens Podcast to dive deep into his groundbreaking book, Epic of Esau. We uncover the shocking links between Esau's ancient bloodline, the Nephilim, hybrid DNA, and the mysterious Bigfoot connection that few have dared to explore.Doc reveals how the story of Esau goes far beyond what we were taught — exposing a hidden seed war that stretches from Genesis to modern times. We talk about spiritual symbolism, genetic corruption, forbidden history, and how these bloodlines might still shape our world today.If you're fascinated by biblical mysteries, giants, cryptids, and spiritual warfare, this conversation will change how you see history — and what's really walking among us.BUY ME A COFFEE LINKSupport the Show & Stay Connected:Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/sensiblehippiehttps://www.youtube.com/@WakeUpwithMiyaJoin My Free Patreon for ad-free episodes & exclusive content: https://Patreon.com/WakeupwithMiyaShop, blog & more: https://www.sensiblehippie.comWant to be on the show or have a guest suggestion?Email me at: SensibleHippie@gmail.comFollow Me Online:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WakeupwithMiyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeupwithMiyaExclusive Discount!Shop at LVNTA: https://lvnta.com/lv_IcTq5EmoFKaZfJhTiSUse code OHANA for 20% off!Listen on Your Favorite Platform:Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere podcasts are available!RATE & REVIEW:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-with-miya/id1627169850Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0UYrXCgma1lJYzf8glnAxyMusic Credits:Beginning: "Echoes in the Shadows" - DK Intro: “At First Light” – LunarehOutro: “Uptown” – PALAEnd Music: “One Day” - Eko#EpicOfEsau #Bigfoot #Nephilim #DocBrown #WakeUpWithMiya #PrometheusLens #Giants #HiddenHistory #BiblicalMystery #SpiritualWarfare #SeedWar

This week is Halloween, and on this special episode recorded with a live audience, the Holy Post hosts discuss why our culture isn't afraid of monsters and demons anymore. How did all of our pop culture heroes and villains become morally ambiguous? Also, would communal living solve our loneliness epidemic? Kaitlyn is all for it, but Skye isn't so sure. Also this week—audience Q&A, Phil, Skye, Kaitlyn, and Esau play a game of true confessions, and Phil's favorite news segment comes full circle. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/142272469/ Bonus Question: https://www.patreon.com/posts/142275742/ 0:00 - Show Starts 2:34 - Theme Song 9:55 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout. 11:04 - Sponsor - Credible Witness - In a world where the church's credibility is in question, we share stories that still bear witness to Christ's radical love, resilient hope, and transforming justice: https://bit.ly/42rh6wC 12:09 - Should We Be in Communes? 27:55 - Why Aren't We Scared of Demons Anymore? 33:30 - The Loss of Heroes? 47:40 - Skye's Take on Halloween 50:12 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST 51:20 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST 52:30 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month! 53:30 - Q&A: God's Leading vs Dreams 58:16 - Q&A: Less News of the Butt 1:00:18 - Q&A: New Taylor Swift Album 1:03:42 - Q&A: Magic in Media 1:12:12 - True Confessions 1:22:00 - End Credits Links Mentioned in News Segment: Butt breathing! https://www.sciencealert.com/human-trials-bring-us-closer-to-breathing-through-our-butts It's not normal to raise kids like this: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/14/opinion/culture/community-parenting-village.html We're not afraid of demons or monsters anymore: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/08/labubu-kpop-demon-hunters-demon-slayer/ Other Resources: Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/ Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Cutting Off Spoilers (1) (audio) David Eells – 10/29/25 Apostate Leaders Fleecing the Sheep B. A. - 04/01/2012 (David's notes in red) I dreamed I was in some type of city. It was strange because there were no people on the sidewalks nor cars on the streets. There were these strange-looking brick buildings (buildings made by the flesh) everywhere I looked. (Sounds like the people of God slaving to make bricks for Pharaoh's buildings.) I decided to go inside one of these buildings. Once inside, I saw a familiar female TV preacher who was hosting an event. I recognized several other female preachers as well, and others whose faces I recognized but could not remember their names. (Father said, (1Ti.2:12) But I permit not a woman to teach, nor to have dominion over a man, but to be in quietness. Read Word, Women and Authority.) There were elaborate tables set up with all kinds of party foods, and everyone was playing games. (If you are not submitting to scripture, you are just playing Church.) Each time the hostess presented a new game, she was wearing a different outfit. (Like chameleons changing to blend in) I watched this for a while, then I decided to leave and go see what was going on inside one of the other buildings. Once back out on the street, I saw a long, rectangular, brick building, so I went inside to check it out. It was very dimly lit; I could barely see where I was going. The building was huge inside, and it appeared to be a kind of art gallery. There were statues on the floor and statues mounted on the walls. (worshipping those who have no life) Further on up ahead, I saw some people standing around a picture on the wall, so I went to see what they were looking at. As I got closer, I noticed all the people were dressed up like pilots and they were looking at and admiring a picture of various airplanes. Some were elaborate jets and some were small Cessna-type planes. I recognized some of these people to be leaders in the apostate church. (Big-time prosperity preachers can't fly with us common folks. They have to have at least one private jet. Poor Jesus, He walked or rode a donkey.) Further on up ahead, I saw another group of people standing around a picture on the wall. As I got closer to these people, they were all dressed up like gladiators, looking at a picture of a large coliseum (I believe this to be representative of megachurches) and bragging about their own personal coliseum. (The competitive spirit is always trying to best those who are also a part of the body to see who is the greatest, as Jesus rebuked the disciples for.) Then, all the way to the back of the art gallery, I saw several rows of people seated and listening to a man standing at a podium. Behind this man was a large mural of TV and radio stations (the apostate leaderships bragging rights. To them more people is success.). He was teaching these people how to successfully get more money from their viewers and God's people in general. (Using mass media to make mass money and live in luxury while not doing the works of the kingdom. Jesus said, (Mat.10:8) Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons: freely ye received, freely give.) As I stood there listening to this, I cried out to the Lord, “Do you see what they are doing? They are scheming and preparing a plan on how they are going to fleece your sheep during tough economic times!” Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Don't be concerned; their days are numbered”. Then I woke up. (Their greed, debt and sins against God's people will take them out.)   Rescuing the Sheep Lorrie Deeter - 07/22/2007 (David's notes in red) In a dream, a little cat with what appeared to be a cat mask on. (These leaders are self-willed and masking their true selves.) He was seated in a high-backed throne with a crown upon its head. He was seated up high, as on a platform above people. (Like most churches do.) He had a ruler in his hand and was pointing to different people, as if giving orders or instructions. From out of nowhere, a great big lion (Lion of Judah) appeared and leaped upon the throne of the little (rebellious) cat and placed it before him and then under his feet, as a footstool. (The ruler represents measurement. (Mat.7:1) Judge not, that ye be not judged. (2) For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured unto you. (3) And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? (4) Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me cast out the mote out of thine eye; and lo, the beam is in thine own eye? (5) Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.) Next, sheep, cattle and goats, appeared before me, all sitting in rows in what appeared to be a building. Some fat, some skinny and some bloated. Some had blindfolds on, some wore earmuffs, and some had earplugs placed within their ears. Some appeared to be blind and others deaf. A man then appeared before them, dressed in a suit and tie. I could not see his face, but as the sheep would come forth, he would bend down and take from them what appeared to be money and lay hands upon them as he looked up. I then saw the face of a wolf turn into view. (Plundering the body) Then out of nowhere, the sheep were plucked out of his hand one by one, as the eagles swooped down and snatched them from him. (Eagles represent overcomers who spread truth to give wisdom, which sets free like this dream.) Then all the sheep disappeared! (As I went back to lie down, I thought of the cattle and goats... and then this was spoken: “The cattle are raised up for destruction. (Cows only eat grass, which Peter said represented flesh, and they only feed milk. They represent perpetually immature Christians.) The goats are those who pretend to be of the sheepfold. (They represent the rebellious who Jesus separated on the left. (Eze.34:10) Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my sheep at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the sheep; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; and I will deliver my sheep from their mouth, that they may not be food for them.) Then this is what was spoken forth: “The fur shall drop and the masks shall be pulled away!” (The true sheep will see the false shepherds for what they are, wolves.)   Word Given: (Luk.6:46) And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? MY daughter, I have many woes and this, MY first of many woes, is to the shepherds and also to the leaders and to those who speak (falsely) in MY name, sayeth the Lord. Woe to those who have raised themselves up, led many, many of my people astray. (Self- or Babylon-ordained preachers, as in Jesus' day) These are they who have erred from MY TRUTH, MY WORD. I shall bring down the crown of their pride. I will bring down the haughty and those high-minded, who have not sought counsel from ME nor sought MY FACE, says the Lord, but of themselves and that of man. To those who have sought counsel from man shall I bring down, for they have not spoken the TRUTH of MY WORD. I, the Lord thy God am sending MY sons and daughters forth, and they shall surely take from the leaders and bring back which is ALL MINE and bring them forth unto ME, says the Lord. (I.e.,The “eagles swooped down and freed them”.) For these leaders are the ones who have deceived MY children and are deceived of themselves, continually deceiving My people, My chosen! These are they who have not walked in MY ways, for they did NOT bring to ME, MY sheep. For they have kept them for themselves and led them away from seeking MY FACE, MY WORD. For I shall surely bring the wicked down and tear down from them all their high places. You are MINE, says the Lord. For BEHOLD, I AM coming quickly and MY reward is with ME! (Eze.34:7) Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of Jehovah: (8) As I live, saith the Lord Jehovah, surely forasmuch as my sheep became a prey, and my sheep became food to all the beasts of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my sheep, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my sheep; (9) therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of Jehovah: (10) Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my sheep at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the sheep; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; and I will deliver my sheep from their mouth, that they may not be food for them. (11) For thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I myself, even I, will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. ... (16) I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. (Isa.28:3) The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim (who worshipped the golden calf), shall be trodden under feet: ... (9) Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. ... (17) Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place. (Isa.29:10) For the LORD hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep, and hath closed your eyes: the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath he covered. ... (15) Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us? ... (18) And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness. ... (30:1) Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin:   Separating the Sheep in the Wilderness Donna Gipson (David's notes in red) God has put on my heart to share a vision He gave to me several years ago. I believe it was late 1994 or early 1995. I was a baby in the Lord, saved for less than a year, so I didn't think to write down exact dates or time. This was a type of trance vision that the Apostle Peter described. I was in a prayer meeting with several people praying near me. Separating of the Sheep As I sat and was praying with my eyes closed, a vision appeared like a big movie screen in my mind. I was totally unaware of everything else around me except for what was happening in this vision. I saw what appeared to me as a vast wilderness. The ground was hard and sandy, not a piece of vegetation in sight. There was a long line of sheep walking across this wilderness. As I watched, a lamb would break off from the line and go to the right. These lambs would line up in rows, one behind the other, like a military formation would. They were all lying down resting with their front legs folded underneath them. I noticed there were no big sheep but only small lambs in this resting group. As I again looked towards the line of sheep who had not stopped with the lambs, I felt in my spirit that these sheep were very fat and woolly and were trudging across the wilderness. I did not understand this vision right away. Over time, the Lord revealed to me several scriptures in Ezekiel 34. I'm sure He will continue to reveal more concerning this vision. God Bless. The Lord is indicating He will separate His lambs from the fleshly fat sheep in the wilderness and cause them to rest from their worldly laboring through faith in His Word. Lambs are those who have their youth renewed as the eagle and have become as a child, a kingdom requirement. (Eze.34:15) I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord Jehovah. (16) I will seek that which was lost, and will bring back that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but the fat and the strong I will destroy; I will feed them in justice. (17) And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I judge between sheep and sheep, the rams and the he-goats. (18) Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have fed upon the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pasture? and to have drunk of the clear waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet? (19) And as for my sheep, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet, and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet. (Misplaced respect for leaders cause their disciples to fall into their sins.) (20) Therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah unto them: Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat sheep (full of flesh) and the lean sheep. (21) Because ye thrust with side and with shoulder, and push all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad; (22) therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between sheep and sheep. (23) And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. (Jer.31:2) Thus saith Jehovah, The people that were left of the sword found favor in the wilderness; even Israel, when I went to cause him to rest. (Mat.25:32) and before him shall be gathered all the nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as the shepherd separateth the sheep from the goats; (33) and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.   God Will Cut Off the Playpen Crowd Laura Lehning - 03/03/2016 (David's notes in red) I had a short dream that I was in a convenience mart following a person to the checkout; we were leaving the store. The person was very somber and austere in his demeanor. As we left, at the end of the aisle, I was surprised to see an empty playpen set up on the floor. (David has said that religions are like playpens: meant to be outgrown and climbed out of.) Then the man reached down into the playpen, which I thought was empty, and he pulled out a pair of sharp scissors. He said to me, “Remember what you have seen”. I answered, “Yes, a playpen and scissors”. (The playpen represents apostate Christianity, and the scissors represent a future cutting off of those who are perpetual children there who bear no fruit of the true Word.) When I awoke, I wondered if the dream had something to do with the apostate churches being 'cut off'. I prayed for a Bible verse about this dream and my finger came down on the word “reproach” in (AMP)(Psa.4:2) O sons of men, how long will my honor and glory be [turned into] a reproach and a shame? How long will you [my enemies] love worthless (vain, futile) things and seek deception and lies? Selah. Those who do not climb out of the playpen will be cut off. The “cutting off” can represent physical death or spiritual death or both and by many methods: (Eze.14:21) For thus saith the Lord Jehovah: How much more when I send my four sore judgments upon [apostate] Jerusalem, the sword, and the famine, and the evil beasts, and the pestilence, to cut off from it man and beast!   Examples of the meaning of “cut off” (Exo.31:14) Ye shall keep the sabbath [meaning to cease from your own works] therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that profaneth it shall surely be put to death; for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. (15) Six days shall work be done; but on the seventh day [We are now in the 7th thousand year day.] is a sabbath of solemn rest, holy to Jehovah; whosoever doeth any work on the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. (In New Testament terms, this could mean spiritual death.) (Lev.23:29) For whatsoever soul it be that shall not be afflicted in that same day; he shall be cut off from his people. (30) And whatsoever soul it be that doeth any manner of work in that same day, that soul will I destroy from among his people. (Jdg.21:6) And the children of Israel repented them for Benjamin their brother, and said, There is one tribe cut off from Israel this day. (They were killed for justifying evil.) Those who don't leave their fleshly life behind will be cut off: (Gen.17:14) And the uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin [meaning ceasing to sow flesh], that soul shall be cut off from his people; he hath broken my covenant. Those who feed on the religions and their lies will be cut off. (Exo.12:15) Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day [the end of the tribulation 7 day/years], that soul shall be cut off from Israel. ... (19) Seven days shall there be no leaven found in your houses: for whosoever eateth that which is leavened, that soul shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he be a sojourner, or one that is born in the land. (Rom.11:22) Behold then the goodness and severity of God: toward them that fell, severity; but toward thee, God's goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. All but the true remnant who follow God will be cut off. (Zec.13:8) And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith Jehovah, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. (14:2) For I will gather all nations against [apostate] Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. The apostate Eli ministry will be cut off: (1Sa.2:27) And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith Jehovah, Did I reveal myself unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in bondage to Pharaoh's house? (28) and did I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to go up unto mine altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? and did I give unto the house of thy father all the offerings of the children of Israel made by fire? (29) Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation, and honorest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? (30) Therefore Jehovah, the God of Israel, saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now Jehovah saith, Be it far from me; for them that honor me I will honor, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed. (31) Behold, the days come, that I will cut off thine arm, and the arm of thy father's house, that there shall not be an old man in thy house. (32) And thou shalt behold the affliction of my habitation, in all the wealth which God shall give Israel; and there shall not be an old man in thy house for ever. (33) And the man of thine, whom I shall not cut off from mine altar, shall be to consume thine eyes, and to grieve thy heart; and all the increase of thy house shall die in the flower of their age. (34) And this shall be the sign unto thee, that shall come upon thy two sons, on Hophni and Phinehas: in one day they shall die both of them. (35) And I will raise me up a faithful priest, that shall do according to that which is in my heart and in my mind: and I will build him a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed for ever… Samuel The Saul ministry was cut off too: (1Sa.31:9) And they cut off his head, and stripped off his armor, and sent into the land of the Philistines round about, to carry the tidings unto the house of their idols, and to the people. Like him, all of David Man-child's apostate enemies will be cut off: (2Sa.22:41) Thou hast also made mine enemies turn their backs unto me, That I might cut off them that hate me. The Lord cut off those who factioned Israel away from the house of David: (1Ki.14:10) therefore, behold, I will bring evil upon the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam every man-child, him that is shut up and him that is left at large in Israel, and will utterly sweep away the house of Jeroboam, as a man sweepeth away dung, till it be all gone. (14) Moreover Jehovah will raise him up a king over Israel, who shall cut off the house of Jeroboam that day: but what? even now. All Ahab leaders and those who follow in their steps will be cut off. (2Ki.9:8) For the whole house of Ahab shall perish; and I will cut off from Ahab every man-child, and him that is shut up and him that is left at large in Israel. The Beast cut off apostates from Israel: (2Ki.10:32) In those days Jehovah began to cut off from Israel: and Hazael smote them in all the borders of Israel; Many so-called people of God will be cut off from the Kingdom. (Psa.34:16) The face of Jehovah is against them that do evil, To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. (Psa.37:22) For such as are blessed of him shall inherit the land; And they that are cursed of him shall be cut off. (Psa.94:23) And he hath brought upon them their own iniquity, And will cut them off in their own wickedness; Jehovah our God will cut them off. (Pro.2:22) But the wicked shall be cut off from the land, And the treacherous shall be rooted out of it. (Isa.9:14) Therefore Jehovah will cut off from Israel head and tail, palm-branch and rush, in one day. (Isa.29:20) For the terrible one is brought to nought, and the scoffer ceaseth, and all they that watch for iniquity [to judge others] are cut off; (Jer.44:8) in that ye provoke me unto anger with the works of your hands, burning incense unto other gods in the land of Egypt, whither ye are gone to sojourn; that ye may be cut off, and that ye may be a curse and a reproach among all the nations of the earth? (Jer.50:16) Cut off the sower from Babylon, and him that handleth the sickle in the time of harvest: for fear of the oppressing sword they shall turn every one to his people, and they shall flee every one to his own land. (Jer.51:6) Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and save every man his life; be not cut off in her iniquity: for it is the time of Jehovah's vengeance; he will render unto her a recompense. Idolaters among God's people who love the world, religion and apostate leaders more than following the Word of the Lord will be cut off. (Eze.14:6) Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Return ye, and turn yourselves from your idols; and turn away your faces from all your abominations. (7) For every one of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn in Israel, that separateth himself from me, and taketh his idols into his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to the prophet to inquire for himself of me; I Jehovah will answer him by myself: (8) and I will set my face against that man, and will make him an astonishment, for a sign and a proverb, and I will cut him off from the midst of my people; and ye shall know that I am Jehovah. God will cut off the Edomites, Esau's seed, who are types of the factious who hate and persecute their brothers. (Eze.35:7) Thus will I make mount Seir [their factious leadership- Eve saw them all die at one time] an astonishment and a desolation; and I will cut off from it him that passeth through and him that returneth. (Oba.9) And thy mighty men, O Teman, shall be dismayed, to the end that every one may be cut off from the mount of Esau by slaughter. (10) For the violence done to thy brother Jacob, shame shall cover thee, and thou shalt be cut off for ever. Because factious Esau cut off his brother Israel, he was cut off: (11) In the day that thou stoodest on the other side, in the day that strangers carried away his substance, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, even thou wast as one of them. (12) But look not thou on the day of thy brother in the day of his disaster, and rejoice not over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; neither speak proudly in the day of distress. (13) Enter not into the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; yea, look not thou on their affliction in the day of their calamity, neither lay ye hands on their substance in the day of their calamity. (14) And stand thou not in the crossway, to cut off those of his that escape; and deliver not up those of his that remain in the day of distress. The two spirits fighting against the righteous the most are Faction and Jezebel, whom God hates. These always go after the true leadership, all the way through the Bible. They will be cut off. (Rev.2:20) But I have this against thee, that thou sufferest the woman Jezebel, who calleth herself a prophetess; and she teacheth and seduceth my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed to idols. (21) And I gave her time that she should repent; and she willeth not to repent of her fornication. (22) Behold, I cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of her works. (23) And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he that searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto each one of you according to your works. A factious person is always immature because this spirit causes them to ignore the Word without conscience, and so they are to be cut off from the body. (Tit.3:10) A factious man (is one who blasphemes, rails against, or slanders others to make disciples) after a first and second admonition refuse; (11) knowing that such a one is perverted, and sinneth, being self-condemned. The nature of factious people: (Jas.3:14) But if ye have bitter jealousy and faction in your heart, glory not and lie not against the truth. ... (16) For where jealousy and faction are, there is confusion [Babylon] and every vile deed. These people are commonly unforgiving, judgmental, fornicators, liars, slanderers, thieves, etc. It says, “every vile deed”. Any fellowship with people like this is disobedience and will bring their spirits and sins or leaven into your life. (1Co.15:33) Be not deceived: Evil companionships corrupt good morals. (1Co.5:6) Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? (7) Purge out the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, even as ye are unleavened. For our passover also hath been sacrificed, even Christ: (8) wherefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. (9) I wrote unto you in my epistle to have no company with fornicators; (10) not at all meaning with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous and extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world: (11) but as it is, I wrote unto you not to keep company, if any man that is named a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such a one no, not to eat. (12) For what have I to do with judging them that are without? Do not ye judge them that are within? (13) But them that are without God judgeth. Put away the wicked man from among yourselves. So that you are not infected with their spirits. Those who do not partake of unleavened bread do not have a Passover of the destroyer. Leaven comes from people who pass on lies to separate you from others, as in faction or denominationalism. At the Passover, God's people were warned: (Exo.12:15) Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel. (19) Seven days shall there be no leaven found in your houses: for whosoever eateth that which is leavened, that soul shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he be a sojourner, or one that is born in the land. (Rom.16:17) Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them that are causing the divisions and occasions of stumbling, contrary to the doctrine which ye learned: and turn away from them. (18) For they that are such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly (pride, lust, selfish ambition, usurping authority); and by their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent. (19) For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I rejoice therefore over you: but I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple unto that which is evil. All factious spirits cause their victims to disobey. (Mat.18:15) And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. (16) But if he hear thee not, take with thee one or two more, that at the mouth of two witnesses or three every word may be established. (17) And if he refuse to hear them, tell it unto the church: and if he refuse to hear the church also, let him be unto thee as the Gentile and the publican. All factious spirits disobey (1Ti.5:19) Against an elder receive not an accusation, except at the mouth of two or three witnesses. These people always go after righteous elders because their demons lust after a position of authority. They cause all others to sin and receive their spirits by accusing elders without two witnesses, and the people sin because they do not demand another witness of sin, not just anything. (Mat.6:14) For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. (15) But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Notice the sins of one who does not forgive are not under the blood; they are not forgiven and their sins are not forgotten without repentance. (Mic.7:19) He will again have compassion upon us; he will tread our iniquities under foot; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. (Heb.10:17) And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. This is for those who are in covenant with God through repentance and faith but God remembers the sins of those who walk in willful disobedience to the Word until they are punished and repent. (Eze.3:20) Again, when a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteous deeds which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thy hand. You are warned. (Eze.21:24) Therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Because ye have made your iniquity to be remembered, in that your transgressions are uncovered, so that in all your doings your sins do appear; because that ye are come to remembrance, ye shall be taken with the hand. (Heb.10:26) For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins, (27) but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which shall devour the adversaries. Notice that when God judges someone, it is because He does not forget their sin, because they are not under the sacrificial blood. Because factious people do not forgive, their wives, husbands and children who associate with them are taken into bondage. (1Co.15:33) Be not deceived: Evil companionships corrupt good morals. Jesus pointed out that the wife and children of a man in unforgiveness are also sold into bondage: (Mat.18:23) Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, who would make a reckoning with his servants. (24) And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, that owed him ten thousand talents. (25) But forasmuch as he had not wherewith to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The Lord points out that those who, for selfish purposes, wanted Daniel's position, they, their wives, and children were thrown to the lions. (Dan.6:24) And the king commanded, and they brought those men that had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces, before they came to the bottom of the den.

Isaac had planned to bless his favorite son Esau, but Isaac's wife Rebecca wanted the blessing to go to her favorite son Jacob. So, she hatches a plan for Jacob to trick Isaac into blessing him rather than his brother. When you read this story, you can't help but notice just how dysfunctional this family is. The marriage is messed up, the parenting is messed up... the whole story is pretty sad. However, if we're willing to learn from their dysfunction, we can have families that are full of much more joy, harmony, and grace. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want more exclusive content?! http://prometheuslens.supercast.com to sign up for the "All Access Pass" and get early access to episodes, private community, members only episodes, private Q & A's, and coming documentaries. We also have a $4 dollar a month package that gets you early access and an ad free listening experience!====================Summary:In this enlightening episode of the Prometheus Lens Podcast, host Doc Brown engages with Derek Gilbert, a seasoned podcaster and author, discussing his journey in the realm of spiritual warfare and prophecy. The conversation delves into Gilbert's upcoming book, 'War of the Watchers', which explores the supernatural conflict over Israel and the implications of the Divine Council in understanding current events.They also touch on the role of Islam in end times scenarios and the significance of Zion as God's chosen dwelling place. The episode emphasizes the importance of connecting ancient texts with modern spiritual realities, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing spiritual battles.====================

In this explosive episode, I sit down with Justin “Doc” Brown┃Prometheus Lens Podcast to dive deep into his groundbreaking book, Epic of Esau. We uncover the shocking links between Esau's ancient bloodline, the Nephilim, hybrid DNA, and the mysterious Bigfoot connection that few have dared to explore. Doc reveals how the story of Esau goes far beyond what we were taught — exposing a hidden seed war that stretches from Genesis to modern times. We talk about spiritual symbolism, genetic corruption, forbidden history, and how these bloodlines might still shape our world today. If you're fascinated by biblical mysteries, giants, cryptids, and spiritual warfare, this conversation will change how you see history — and what's really walking among us. BUY ME A COFFEE LINK Support the Show & Stay Connected:Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/sensiblehippie https://www.youtube.com/@WakeUpwithMiya Join My Free Patreon for ad-free episodes & exclusive content: https://Patreon.com/WakeupwithMiyaShop, blog & more: https://www.sensiblehippie.com Want to be on the show or have a guest suggestion?Email me at: SensibleHippie@gmail.com Follow Me Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WakeupwithMiya Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeupwithMiya Exclusive Discount!Shop at LVNTA: https://lvnta.com/lv_IcTq5EmoFKaZfJhTiSUse code OHANA for 20% off! Listen on Your Favorite Platform:Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere podcasts are available! RATE & REVIEW: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-with-miya/id1627169850 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0UYrXCgma1lJYzf8glnAxy Music Credits: Beginning: "Echoes in the Shadows" - DK Intro: “At First Light” – Lunareh Outro: “Uptown” – PALA End Music: “Crazy” - Eko #EpicOfEsau #Bigfoot #Nephilim #DocBrown #WakeUpWithMiya #PrometheusLens #Giants #HiddenHistory #BiblicalMystery #SpiritualWarfare #SeedWar

Jacob runs from his brother Esau, who is angry with him for stealing his birthright, and Isaac and Rebekah sending Jacob to family to find a wife who believes in the true God.

This week concludes a two-week series on reconciliation. We'll read more of the story with Jacob and Esau, two brothers who came into this world fighting and competing with one another and whose birth story set the tone for the rest of their lives. These two were always at odds. In Part 1, we explored how humility is a necessary precursor to reconciliation. We marveled at how Jacob wrestles with God and emerges with a limp and a new name. We asked ourselves if we need to wrestle with God, and if there are any “names” we need to let go of, allowing God to transform us into someone new. This week we'll take an honest look at the encounter between Jacob and his brother to see what their reconciliation was like… and if it has anything to do with ours. Link to Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUK1USX5kSQ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link to Start of Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUK1USX5kSQ&t=2202s⁠⁠⁠⁠If you are new to our faith community and are interested in learning more, please go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Welcome to First Congo Online - First Congregational Church of Western Springs

Text: Genesis 25:23  A sermon in our series through Genesis 

The Bible never hides the mess that happens when sinful people collide. It doesnt take much to recognize that since Adam and Eve were promised a descendant who would crush the head of the serpent, the story of Gods people is one of dysfunction. All who make up Jesus family tree include broken and messy people. When we come to Genesis 29, we meet Jacoba deceiverand Leah, the woman no one wanted. But their story began long before this moment. God had promised Abraham that through his descendants would come a child who would bless all nations. That promise passed to Isaac, and before his twins were born, God declared,The older shall serve the younger (Gen. 25:23). Jacob deceived his aging father, stole his brothers blessing, and fled for his life. Alone in the wilderness, with only a stone for a pillow, God met him in a dream.I am the LORD, the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go (Gen. 28:1315). God didnt appear to Jacob because he finally got his act togetherHe showed up in Jacobs mess. Thats the beauty of grace: God steps into our brokenness, keeps His promises, and accomplishes His plan through imperfect people. Later, God gave him the name Israel, but for the purpose of this sermon, we will continue to refer to him as Jacob (Gen. 35:9-21). Outside of Eden We Want Rachel (Gen. 29:1-20) When Laban heard his nephew had arrived, heran to meet him, and embraced him and kissed him, and brought him to his house(Gen. 29:13). Jacob stayed with his uncle for a month, and during that time he fell in love with Labans younger daughter, Rachel (v. 18). Why did Jacob love Rachel? The text tells us:Now Laban had two daughters; the name of the older was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. And Leahs eyes were weak, but Rachel was beautiful in figure and appearance(vv. 1617). Were not told exactly what it means that Leahs eyes were weak. Some think she was cross-eyed or simply lacked the beauty that her younger sister possessed. Whatever the case, the contrast is clearLeah was plain, but Rachel was striking. Even their names hint at the difference:Leahmay mean wild cow or gazelle, whileRachelmeans ewe or lamba softer, more affectionate name. Rachel was beautiful, and Jacob was captivated. When Laban offered to pay Jacob for his work, Jacob didnt ask for wageshe offered seven years of labor for Rachels hand. Laban agreed.So Jacob worked seven years to pay for Rachel. But his love for her was so strong that it seemed to him but a few days(Gen. 29:20, NLT). Rachel was the apple of his eyethe treasure of his heart. To Jacob, life with Rachel promised the happiness he had always longed for. And isnt that what we all want? On this side of Eden, every heart searches for a Rachelsomeone or something we believe will complete us. We might not call it Rachel, but we chase it in our stories, our dreams, and our longings. We dont want Leah. We want Rachel. If the Bible repeats something, we need to pay attention to it. But, if the Bible repeats something three times, it elevates it to the superlative degree as something super important. Three times we are told of Jacobs love for Rachel: Now Jacob loved Rachel, so he said, I will serve you seven years for your younger daughter Rachel. (Gen. 29:18) So Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed to him like only a few days because of his love for her. (Gen. 29:20) So Jacob had relations with Rachel also, and indeed he loved Rachel more than Leah, and he served with Laban for another seven years. (Gen. 29:30) Guess how many times we are told that Jacob loved Leah. Zero. In fact, when it comes to love, here is what we are told: Now the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, and He opened her womb, but Rachel was unable to have children (v. 31). Outside of Eden We Get Leah (Gen. 29:21-30) After Jacob completed the seven years he had promised his uncle, he was ready to receive what his heart had longed for.Then Jacob said to Laban, Give me my wife, for my time is completed, that I may have relations with her. So Laban gathered all the people of the place and held a feast(Gen. 29:2122). Finally, Jacob believed life was about to become sweet. The wedding celebration began, the food was served, and the wine flowed freely. When the bride was brought to himveiled and under cover of nightJacob, likely feeling content and confident, welcomed her.Now in the evening he took his daughter Leah and brought her to him; and Jacob had relations with her.... So it came about in the morning that, behold, it was Leah!(Gen. 29:23, 25a). Morning light brought a brutal truth. The woman beside him was not Rachelthe love of his lifebut Leah, the weak-eyed daughter whose very name meant wild cow. Jacob was furious. He had been deceivedjust as he had once deceived his brother Esau. His dream of happiness, shattered.And he said to Laban, What is this that you have done to me? Was it not for Rachel that I served you? Why then have you deceived me?(v. 25). But Laban, the master manipulator, calmly replied,It is not the practice in our place to marry off the younger before the firstborn. Complete the week of this one, and we will give you the other also for the service which you shall serve with me for another seven years(vv. 2627). Jacob was trappedused for free labor once again. He was tricked into taking the daughter he hadnt chosen, and bartered into another seven years for the one he loved. Unfortunately for Leah, she was stuck in the middle of all the drama. Outside of Eden There is Still Hope The marriage that Jacob was tricked into began with a week-long celebration. Laban insisted Jacob complete the festivities with Leah, giving enough time for her to become pregnant. Yet Jacob was eager for the days to end, and as soon as the week was over, he immediately married Rachel. Driven by the selfish motives of both Jacob and Laban, Leah found herself trappedcaught between their desires and loved by no one. Leah was rejected, while Rachel was cherished. The striking irony in Leahs story is that, while she was overlooked by everyone else, God loved her: Now the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, and He opened her womb, but Rachel was unable to have children (v. 31). Despite Gods blessings with each child, Leahs deepest longing, which was for her husbands love, remained out of reach. After every birth, Leah hoped that her husband would finally love her, yet that hope was continually unfulfilled. Consider how Leah responded after each of her first four child were born: Leah conceived and gave birth to a son, and named him Reuben, for she said, Because the Lord has seen my affliction; surely now my husband will love me. (v. 32) Then she conceived again and gave birth to a son, and said, Because the Lord has heard that I am unloved, He has therefore given me this son also. So she named him Simeon. (v. 33) And she conceived again and gave birth to a son, and said, Now this time my husband will become attached to me, because I have borne him three sons. Therefore he was named Levi. (v. 34) And she conceived again and gave birth to a son, and said, This time I will praise the Lord. Therefore she named him Judah. Then she stopped having children. (v. 35) I wish Leahs story ended with her praising theLORD, but it didnt. She continued to seek Jacobs affection by giving him what Rachel could notchildren. Just as Sarah gave Hagar to Jacob, Rachel followed the same pattern when she could not conceive, unwilling to trust Gods timing. What followed was a rivalry between Leah and Rachel, each striving to win Jacobs love by giving him more sons. Both even gave their servants to Jacob, and through them, four more sons were born. In time, God blessed Leah with two additional sons and a daughter, yet her longing for her husbands love was never fulfilled (seeGen. 30:1921). Rachel, meanwhile, bore only two sonsJosephand, finally,Benjamin, the only son Jacob named. Then they journeyed on from Bethel; but when there was still some distance to go to Ephrath, Rachel began to give birth and she suffered severe difficulties in her labor. And when she was suffering severe difficulties in her labor, the midwife said to her, Do not fear, for you have another son! And it came about, as her soul was departing (for she died), that she named him Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin(Gen. 35:1618). Application The irony in Leahs story is striking: although she was overlooked by her father, unloved by her husband, and scorned by her younger sister, she was shown favor by God. Leah became the mother of seven children, including Levi and Judah. Through Levi, the priestly lineage was established, and through Judah, the royal line was formeda line that ultimately led to the birth of Jesus Christ! The promise God made to Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob... was Leahs promise. Listen to the prophetic blessing pronounced upon Judah by Jacob in Genesis 49:8-10, As for you, Judah, your brothers shall praise you;your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies;your fathers sons shall bow down to you. Judah is a lions cub;from the prey, my son, you have gone up.He crouches, he lies down as a lion,and as a lion, who dares to stir him up? The scepter will not depart from Judah,nor the rulers staff from between his feet,until Shiloh comes;and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples. The ugly wife was loved by God! Leah couldnt have seen it then, but the beauty God would bring through her lineage is staggering. Her name may meanweary,exhausted,gazelle, or evenwild cowyet through her would come the Deliverer promised to Adam and Eve, to Noah, to Abraham and Sarah, to Isaac, and now to Jacob. She was the wife no one loved or treasured, except God Himself. From Leahs sons came the tribe ofLevi, the tribe set apart to oversee the worship and sacrificial life of Israel. From the Levites, God appointed theHigh Priest, chosen from Aarons line, to mediate between God and His people. Upon his chest he wore a sacred breastplate adorned with twelve precious stones, each set in gold and engraved with the name of one of Israels tribes. Thefirst stone,sardiusa deep red rubyrepresentedReuben, whose name meansBehold, a son!Thelast stone,jasper, representedBenjamin, meaningson of my right hand. Leahs legacy was not measured by Jacobs affection but by Gods covenantal love. Through the unloved wife, God brought forth the priesthood that pointed to the Great High PriestJesus Christ. Conclusion Now, permit me to show you something from Revelation 4-5. In Revelation 4, John is invited to see the heavenly throne room of God. Notice what it is that John sees: After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me, said, Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things. Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne was standing in heaven, and someone was sitting on the throne. And He who was sitting was like a jasper stone and a sardius in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance. John is ushered into heavens throne room, and what captures his attention is that the One seated on the throne radiates with the colors of jasper and sardiusthe first and last stones on the High Priests breastplate. This is not accidental imagery. It is intentional revelation. What shines from the throne is He who is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. When you pair the meanings of those names Behold, a Son and Son of My right handyou hear the gospel proclaimed from the very throne of God. Who is this Son at the right hand of the Father? Revelation 1:1718 gives the answer: Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and Hades. The One radiant like sardius and jasper is none other than Jesus Christ. And how do we know He sits at the right hand of the Father? Because Paul who himself was from the tribe represented by the jasper stonedeclares in Romans 8:3134: What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Who will bring charges against Gods elect? God is the one who justifies; who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, but rather, was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. This is the One who is worthy to open the scroll in the Fathers hand. Revelation 5:5 tells us, ...behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to be able to open the scroll and its seven seals. The elder tells John to look at the Lion of Judah. But when John turns, he doesnt see a lion. He sees a Lamb. A Lamb standing, as if slaughtered... (Rev. 5:6). Jacob chased after a beautiful woman whose name meant sheep, but through Leahthe unloved, weary wifewould come the Lamb of God. The Lamb who stands before the throne as the triumphant Redeemer. And all of heaven erupts in worship: Worthy is the Lamb that was slaughtered to receive power, wealth, wisdom, might, honor, glory, and blessing (Rev. 5:12). What is the point of Leahs story? God redeems what is ugly, weary, and rejected. He takes what the world despises and uses it to accomplish His glorious plan of redemption. This is why the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders sing a new song to Leahs descendant: Worthy are You to take the scroll and to break its seals; for You were slaughtered, and You purchased people for God with Your blood from every tribe, language, people, and nation (Rev. 5:9). And here is where the story turns deeply personal. We are Leah. We are the unlovely bride. We are the weary, broken, and undeserving. But instead of being repulsed by us, Jesus loves us. He makes us His Bride. Paul writes, For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:3839). Leahs story ends not in sorrow, but in the songs of heaven. The woman who was unloved became the vessel through whom the Lamb of God would come. The tribe she bore would point to the Great High Priest, and the Son of her bodys lineage would one day stand at the right hand of the Father. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. That is our story too. If you belong to Christ, then your shame, your weariness, and your rejection are not the end of the story. The throne is. The Lamb is. His love is.

The Bible never hides the mess that happens when sinful people collide. It doesnt take much to recognize that since Adam and Eve were promised a descendant who would crush the head of the serpent, the story of Gods people is one of dysfunction. All who make up Jesus family tree include broken and messy people. When we come to Genesis 29, we meet Jacoba deceiverand Leah, the woman no one wanted. But their story began long before this moment. God had promised Abraham that through his descendants would come a child who would bless all nations. That promise passed to Isaac, and before his twins were born, God declared,The older shall serve the younger (Gen. 25:23). Jacob deceived his aging father, stole his brothers blessing, and fled for his life. Alone in the wilderness, with only a stone for a pillow, God met him in a dream.I am the LORD, the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go (Gen. 28:1315). God didnt appear to Jacob because he finally got his act togetherHe showed up in Jacobs mess. Thats the beauty of grace: God steps into our brokenness, keeps His promises, and accomplishes His plan through imperfect people. Later, God gave him the name Israel, but for the purpose of this sermon, we will continue to refer to him as Jacob (Gen. 35:9-21). Outside of Eden We Want Rachel (Gen. 29:1-20) When Laban heard his nephew had arrived, heran to meet him, and embraced him and kissed him, and brought him to his house(Gen. 29:13). Jacob stayed with his uncle for a month, and during that time he fell in love with Labans younger daughter, Rachel (v. 18). Why did Jacob love Rachel? The text tells us:Now Laban had two daughters; the name of the older was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. And Leahs eyes were weak, but Rachel was beautiful in figure and appearance(vv. 1617). Were not told exactly what it means that Leahs eyes were weak. Some think she was cross-eyed or simply lacked the beauty that her younger sister possessed. Whatever the case, the contrast is clearLeah was plain, but Rachel was striking. Even their names hint at the difference:Leahmay mean wild cow or gazelle, whileRachelmeans ewe or lamba softer, more affectionate name. Rachel was beautiful, and Jacob was captivated. When Laban offered to pay Jacob for his work, Jacob didnt ask for wageshe offered seven years of labor for Rachels hand. Laban agreed.So Jacob worked seven years to pay for Rachel. But his love for her was so strong that it seemed to him but a few days(Gen. 29:20, NLT). Rachel was the apple of his eyethe treasure of his heart. To Jacob, life with Rachel promised the happiness he had always longed for. And isnt that what we all want? On this side of Eden, every heart searches for a Rachelsomeone or something we believe will complete us. We might not call it Rachel, but we chase it in our stories, our dreams, and our longings. We dont want Leah. We want Rachel. If the Bible repeats something, we need to pay attention to it. But, if the Bible repeats something three times, it elevates it to the superlative degree as something super important. Three times we are told of Jacobs love for Rachel: Now Jacob loved Rachel, so he said, I will serve you seven years for your younger daughter Rachel. (Gen. 29:18) So Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed to him like only a few days because of his love for her. (Gen. 29:20) So Jacob had relations with Rachel also, and indeed he loved Rachel more than Leah, and he served with Laban for another seven years. (Gen. 29:30) Guess how many times we are told that Jacob loved Leah. Zero. In fact, when it comes to love, here is what we are told: Now the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, and He opened her womb, but Rachel was unable to have children (v. 31). Outside of Eden We Get Leah (Gen. 29:21-30) After Jacob completed the seven years he had promised his uncle, he was ready to receive what his heart had longed for.Then Jacob said to Laban, Give me my wife, for my time is completed, that I may have relations with her. So Laban gathered all the people of the place and held a feast(Gen. 29:2122). Finally, Jacob believed life was about to become sweet. The wedding celebration began, the food was served, and the wine flowed freely. When the bride was brought to himveiled and under cover of nightJacob, likely feeling content and confident, welcomed her.Now in the evening he took his daughter Leah and brought her to him; and Jacob had relations with her.... So it came about in the morning that, behold, it was Leah!(Gen. 29:23, 25a). Morning light brought a brutal truth. The woman beside him was not Rachelthe love of his lifebut Leah, the weak-eyed daughter whose very name meant wild cow. Jacob was furious. He had been deceivedjust as he had once deceived his brother Esau. His dream of happiness, shattered.And he said to Laban, What is this that you have done to me? Was it not for Rachel that I served you? Why then have you deceived me?(v. 25). But Laban, the master manipulator, calmly replied,It is not the practice in our place to marry off the younger before the firstborn. Complete the week of this one, and we will give you the other also for the service which you shall serve with me for another seven years(vv. 2627). Jacob was trappedused for free labor once again. He was tricked into taking the daughter he hadnt chosen, and bartered into another seven years for the one he loved. Unfortunately for Leah, she was stuck in the middle of all the drama. Outside of Eden There is Still Hope The marriage that Jacob was tricked into began with a week-long celebration. Laban insisted Jacob complete the festivities with Leah, giving enough time for her to become pregnant. Yet Jacob was eager for the days to end, and as soon as the week was over, he immediately married Rachel. Driven by the selfish motives of both Jacob and Laban, Leah found herself trappedcaught between their desires and loved by no one. Leah was rejected, while Rachel was cherished. The striking irony in Leahs story is that, while she was overlooked by everyone else, God loved her: Now the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, and He opened her womb, but Rachel was unable to have children (v. 31). Despite Gods blessings with each child, Leahs deepest longing, which was for her husbands love, remained out of reach. After every birth, Leah hoped that her husband would finally love her, yet that hope was continually unfulfilled. Consider how Leah responded after each of her first four child were born: Leah conceived and gave birth to a son, and named him Reuben, for she said, Because the Lord has seen my affliction; surely now my husband will love me. (v. 32) Then she conceived again and gave birth to a son, and said, Because the Lord has heard that I am unloved, He has therefore given me this son also. So she named him Simeon. (v. 33) And she conceived again and gave birth to a son, and said, Now this time my husband will become attached to me, because I have borne him three sons. Therefore he was named Levi. (v. 34) And she conceived again and gave birth to a son, and said, This time I will praise the Lord. Therefore she named him Judah. Then she stopped having children. (v. 35) I wish Leahs story ended with her praising theLORD, but it didnt. She continued to seek Jacobs affection by giving him what Rachel could notchildren. Just as Sarah gave Hagar to Jacob, Rachel followed the same pattern when she could not conceive, unwilling to trust Gods timing. What followed was a rivalry between Leah and Rachel, each striving to win Jacobs love by giving him more sons. Both even gave their servants to Jacob, and through them, four more sons were born. In time, God blessed Leah with two additional sons and a daughter, yet her longing for her husbands love was never fulfilled (seeGen. 30:1921). Rachel, meanwhile, bore only two sonsJosephand, finally,Benjamin, the only son Jacob named. Then they journeyed on from Bethel; but when there was still some distance to go to Ephrath, Rachel began to give birth and she suffered severe difficulties in her labor. And when she was suffering severe difficulties in her labor, the midwife said to her, Do not fear, for you have another son! And it came about, as her soul was departing (for she died), that she named him Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin(Gen. 35:1618). Application The irony in Leahs story is striking: although she was overlooked by her father, unloved by her husband, and scorned by her younger sister, she was shown favor by God. Leah became the mother of seven children, including Levi and Judah. Through Levi, the priestly lineage was established, and through Judah, the royal line was formeda line that ultimately led to the birth of Jesus Christ! The promise God made to Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob... was Leahs promise. Listen to the prophetic blessing pronounced upon Judah by Jacob in Genesis 49:8-10, As for you, Judah, your brothers shall praise you;your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies;your fathers sons shall bow down to you. Judah is a lions cub;from the prey, my son, you have gone up.He crouches, he lies down as a lion,and as a lion, who dares to stir him up? The scepter will not depart from Judah,nor the rulers staff from between his feet,until Shiloh comes;and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples. The ugly wife was loved by God! Leah couldnt have seen it then, but the beauty God would bring through her lineage is staggering. Her name may meanweary,exhausted,gazelle, or evenwild cowyet through her would come the Deliverer promised to Adam and Eve, to Noah, to Abraham and Sarah, to Isaac, and now to Jacob. She was the wife no one loved or treasured, except God Himself. From Leahs sons came the tribe ofLevi, the tribe set apart to oversee the worship and sacrificial life of Israel. From the Levites, God appointed theHigh Priest, chosen from Aarons line, to mediate between God and His people. Upon his chest he wore a sacred breastplate adorned with twelve precious stones, each set in gold and engraved with the name of one of Israels tribes. Thefirst stone,sardiusa deep red rubyrepresentedReuben, whose name meansBehold, a son!Thelast stone,jasper, representedBenjamin, meaningson of my right hand. Leahs legacy was not measured by Jacobs affection but by Gods covenantal love. Through the unloved wife, God brought forth the priesthood that pointed to the Great High PriestJesus Christ. Conclusion Now, permit me to show you something from Revelation 4-5. In Revelation 4, John is invited to see the heavenly throne room of God. Notice what it is that John sees: After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me, said, Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things. Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne was standing in heaven, and someone was sitting on the throne. And He who was sitting was like a jasper stone and a sardius in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance. John is ushered into heavens throne room, and what captures his attention is that the One seated on the throne radiates with the colors of jasper and sardiusthe first and last stones on the High Priests breastplate. This is not accidental imagery. It is intentional revelation. What shines from the throne is He who is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. When you pair the meanings of those names Behold, a Son and Son of My right handyou hear the gospel proclaimed from the very throne of God. Who is this Son at the right hand of the Father? Revelation 1:1718 gives the answer: Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and Hades. The One radiant like sardius and jasper is none other than Jesus Christ. And how do we know He sits at the right hand of the Father? Because Paul who himself was from the tribe represented by the jasper stonedeclares in Romans 8:3134: What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Who will bring charges against Gods elect? God is the one who justifies; who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, but rather, was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. This is the One who is worthy to open the scroll in the Fathers hand. Revelation 5:5 tells us, ...behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to be able to open the scroll and its seven seals. The elder tells John to look at the Lion of Judah. But when John turns, he doesnt see a lion. He sees a Lamb. A Lamb standing, as if slaughtered... (Rev. 5:6). Jacob chased after a beautiful woman whose name meant sheep, but through Leahthe unloved, weary wifewould come the Lamb of God. The Lamb who stands before the throne as the triumphant Redeemer. And all of heaven erupts in worship: Worthy is the Lamb that was slaughtered to receive power, wealth, wisdom, might, honor, glory, and blessing (Rev. 5:12). What is the point of Leahs story? God redeems what is ugly, weary, and rejected. He takes what the world despises and uses it to accomplish His glorious plan of redemption. This is why the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders sing a new song to Leahs descendant: Worthy are You to take the scroll and to break its seals; for You were slaughtered, and You purchased people for God with Your blood from every tribe, language, people, and nation (Rev. 5:9). And here is where the story turns deeply personal. We are Leah. We are the unlovely bride. We are the weary, broken, and undeserving. But instead of being repulsed by us, Jesus loves us. He makes us His Bride. Paul writes, For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:3839). Leahs story ends not in sorrow, but in the songs of heaven. The woman who was unloved became the vessel through whom the Lamb of God would come. The tribe she bore would point to the Great High Priest, and the Son of her bodys lineage would one day stand at the right hand of the Father. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. That is our story too. If you belong to Christ, then your shame, your weariness, and your rejection are not the end of the story. The throne is. The Lamb is. His love is.

Series: N/AService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Jason Shackleford

A new MP3 sermon from Sermons of Dr. Ian Paisley is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Esau's Tears Subtitle: Reel to Reel Paisley Speaker: Dr. Ian R. K. Paisley Broadcaster: Sermons of Dr. Ian Paisley Event: Sunday Service Date: 7/16/1967 Bible: Hebrews 12:16-17 Length: 19 min.

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Want more exclusive content?! http://prometheuslens.supercast.com to sign up for the "All Access Pass" and get early access to episodes, private community, members only episodes, private Q & A's, and coming documentaries. We also have a $4 dollar a month package that gets you early access and an ad free listening experience!====================

Want more exclusive content?! http://prometheuslens.supercast.com to sign up for the "All Access Pass" and get early access to episodes, private community, members only episodes, private Q & A's, and coming documentaries. We also have a $4 dollar a month package that gets you early access and an ad free listening experience!====================ABOUT:Join me on my boy Nick's show, The Occult Rejects! Nick brought me on when my book first launched to talk about the book, Esau, and the hidden nuggets in the Bible! ENJOY!====================

What happens when years of bitterness stand between two brothers? Jacob feared Esau's wrath, yet God was preparing a reunion marked not by vengeance, but by grace. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace for part one of The Joy of a Restored Relationship, and see how God can heal what seems impossible to mend.  

Welcome to a Brain Wrinkling Wednesday with Fr. Tom Koys.  Today Father speaks regarding the 1st reading from mass on Sunday and the correlation of the position of Moses arms and who was winning the battle between the Israelites and the Amalekites. He discovers that the Amalekites were descendants of Esau. Being a history buff, he talks about the fact that family feuds affect history.  During the second half of the show Father goes into thoughts of CSW Lewis and ideology to share a couple of Aha! moments. St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish

Cale begins with a sneak preview of Jacob, Joseph & Reuben’s later relationships. He then talks about the sons of Jacob, completing the 12 tribes of Israel. Cale analyzes the descendants of Esau, breaking down the meanings of their names and their significance. Cale ends by talking about marriage and the dangers of marrying someone with different religious views.

by Elder Chris McCool, Pastor (preached on September 7, 2025) In our exposition of the Book of Romans, we have come to a passage that some consider difficult. But when Paul makes the statement in Romans 9:13 that “Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated,” he was under the inspiration of the Holy...

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This week starts a two-week series on reconciliation. We'll read part of the story with Jacob and Esau, two brothers that came into this world fighting and competing with one another and whose birth story set the tone for the rest of their lives. These two were always at odds. Until one day, after years of distance and separation, after a dream, after a mystical encounter with God, and a fateful meeting that could have gone really badly, these two brothers reconciled. So what was it that led to their reconciliation? And what might we learn from their stories to help our own distant and divided world?Link to Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sg6-NDjdMQs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link to Start of Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sg6-NDjdMQs&t=2084s⁠If you are new to our faith community and are interested in learning more, please go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Welcome to First Congo Online - First Congregational Church of Western Springs

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by Elder Chris McCool, Pastor (preached on September 7, 2025) In our exposition of the Book of Romans, we have come to a verse that causes many people to stumble. In Romans 9:13, we read that, “Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.” The concept of divine hatred is an extremely important concept...

Our Bible Reading of the Day is Genesis 25:19–34; 27:1–45. When Isaac is sixty years old, Rebekah gives birth to very different twin boys—Esau and Jacob. Isaac ignores God's promise to Jacob and favors Esau. Esau's hunger gets the best of him as he sells his birthright for a bowl of stew. Rebekah enables further deception as she plots with Jacob, her favored son, so that he receives Isaac's blessing. When Esau vows to kill Jacob, Rebekah sends Jacob away for his own safety. Isaac and Rebekah's family was unfaithful to God and to one another. Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of the promised line of Isaac, was faithful to God in ways His ancestors were not.

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Send us a textThis week we look at the final division of land for the descendants of Abraham and his family. That being with Esau.

Introduction: Why Is Self-Promotion So Foolish (1 Corinthians 1:18–31) Because it misses the power of THE CROSS. (1 Cor 1:18–25) Because it misses the strength of a WEAK CHURCH. (1 Cor 1:26–28) Because it misses the glory of BOASTING IN CHRIST. (1 Cor 1:29–31) 1 Cor 4:7 - “What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?” Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 1:18-31What was your big take-away from this passage / message?What is self-promotion? Where do you see self-promotion at play in this culture and in the church world?How do you struggle with exalting/promoting yourself?Why is being weak your greatest strength?What does it mean to “boast in the Lord?” List practical ways that you can boast in the Lord/promote Christ on a daily basis. BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Alright, 1 Corinthians chapter 1 verses 18 through 31.1 Corinthians chapter 1 verses 18 through 31.As a teenager, I was the last of my friends to create a Facebook account.For years I held strong against the peer pressure,but do you want to know what finally led me to get a Facebook account?The desire to boast in myself and self-promote.See, back in the summer of 2009, my family and I went to Hilton Head, South Carolina for vacation.And on that vacation, we went shark fishing.And during that expedition, I caught a baby hammerhead shark.Pretty impressive, right?My one friend who was on the trip took a picture of me holding up that hammerhead shark,and I thought it looked so cool.And as soon as I got back to the condo, I fired up Facebook, I created an account,and I made that picture my profile picture.I'm not going to show that picture on the screens because I don't want to selflessly promote myself yet again,although I already see Jamie Kendrew looking up Facebook right now.And I'm sure that many of you will do the same after service,so happy hunting trying to find that picture.But I went back and looked at this cringy 16-year-old postto see how many likes and comments it received.How many likes do you think that picture got?A hundred?Wow, Jeff, you have a lot of confidence in me.Six.Talk about going viral.I think I might have missed my calling as a social media influencer.But as I was looking at this old post, I also saw the comment of my friend who took that picture.He wrote this on the post.I'm just going to point out that this picture is the only reason you even got a Facebook.You just wanted the world to know about the shark.My friend saw right through my motivations, and he knew why I created that account.Self-promotion.But I'm not the only one who has utilized social media for self-promotion, right?That's the main drive for most people who have an Instagram, a Facebook, or a TalkTix,as Pastor Jeff often calls it.On social media, you put your best foot forward.You curate an image of yourself that isn't exactly accurate or realistic,but you don't really care because that's how you want other people to view you.This past week, I did a deep dive into self-promotion,and I came across a lot of interesting content.I came across really buff dudes who lectured not so buff dudesabout the importance of being a perfect physical specimen,the art of destroying the competition and manifesting your dreams into reality.I also came across inspirational coaches who pamper with self-help talk,like, "Whenever you succeed, tell yourself, 'I'm so proud of myself.'I'm my own personal hero."I saw this one last week.I'm becoming a person that the younger version of me would have looked up to.Oh, gag. That was really hard to hear.Here's one quote that I haven't been able to stop thinking about as soon as I read it."If you don't promote yourself, nobody will."Do you want to know what I thought when I read that?That's exactly right.If you don't promote yourself, nobody will, because they are too busy promoting themselves.We live in such a me-centered society.Focus on me. Pay attention to me, because I'm so special and unique.Don't be unfair to me. Don't tell me what to do.Listen, self-promotion isn't just a problem out there.Self-promotion is a problem in here that we need to deal with.And don't think to yourself, "You know what, Pastor Taylor, you're right.There's a lot of prideful people in this room, and I'll do my part in calling them out. Don't worry."Hold on a minute. Self-promotion isn't just a problem out there.And in here, vaguely and generally, self-promotion is a problem within you that you need to deal with.Self-promotion is a problem within me that I need to deal with.This is the third week in a year-long study of 1 Corinthians, church unified and purified.Last week, Pastor Jeff challenged you to protect the unity of the church by nixing the clicksand refusing to divide over pointless preferences and particular personalities.This morning, you will be challenged to protect the unity of the churchby resisting the temptation to pridefully promote yourself and elevate your importance.Because obsessing over me hurts the we. It hurts everyone around you.And self-promotion isn't just a new problem that started with the Internet.It is an ancient problem that the Corinthians had to deal with as well.And this ancient problem can only be solved with the timeless truths of God's Word.And you cannot deal with the prideful promotion within your own heartuntil you realize how destructive and foolish it really is.So I want us to ask and answer one question this morning, just one.Why is self-promotion so foolish?Why is self-promotion so foolish?Before we seek to answer that question, let's go to the Lord and ask for His help.Please pray for me that I will faithfully proclaim God's Wordas I pray for you that you will faithfully receive it.Father, we come to you and we admit our temptation to self-glorify, to self-promote.Lord, I admit to you that I have been dealing with that this morning already.Father, I pray that we wouldn't push aside the conviction that your spirit brings,that we wouldn't think, "Oh, this sermon is for somebody else.Lord, help every single person in this room to think, 'No, this is for me.'"This is God's Word for me.And may we walk out of here different people with a different attitude and a different focus.We ask all this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.So why is self-promotion so foolish?Reason number one, because it misses the power of the cross.Because it misses the power of the cross.Last week's text ended with the cross, and this morning's passage begins with the cross.Let's read 1 Corinthians chapter 1 verse 18 together.The apostle Paul writes, "For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing,but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God."According to Paul, there are only two ways to view the cross.There are only two ways to view the news of Jesus Christ, God himself who came to suffer and die,to save anyone and everyone who believes in Him.There are only two ways to view the gospel.Foolish or powerful?Those are the only two options. There is no riding the fence.There is no middle ground.You either hear the gospel and think, "That is so dumb."Or you think, "That is so awesome."Which is your view of the cross?Foolish or powerful?Dumb or awesome?Your view of the cross isn't a minor footnote in the story of your life.Your view of the cross isn't a small aspect of your worldview.Note is the defining characteristic of who you are.Your view of the cross reveals where you stand right nowand where you will end up in eternity.If you reject the cross of Christ in this life,you will be rejected by Christ when you exit this life.But if you have embraced the cross of Christ, Paul says you are being saved.Does that sound kind of weird to you? Being saved?We usually just talk about salvation in the past tense, right?But Scripture talks about salvation in three tenses.The past, the present, and the future.If you have trusted in Christ, you have experienced salvation.You are experiencing salvation and you will experience salvation.You have been justified.You are being sanctified and you will be glorified.You were made right by the blood of Christ before the presence of God.You are being made more and more into the image of Christ.And one day you'll be fully perfect in the presence of Christ.The cross has the transformative power to change your past, your present, and your future.But you can only experience the power of the cross if you humble yourself before it.You will not experience the power of the cross if you live to promote yourself.You will not experience the power of the cross if you think you're wiser than God.You will not experience the power of the cross if you think you can save yourselfand figure out the meaning of life on your own.Paul talks about the foolishness of trusting in your own wisdom in verses 19 through 20."For it is written, 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.'"Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe?Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?So Paul quotes Isaiah 29 and 14 and then throws down the gauntlet to challenge all the great thinkers of his day.The philosophers, the teachers of the Old Testament law, and the polished public speakers.If Paul was speaking directly at 2025, he'd be talking about the most celebrated politicians.Enlightened spiritual gurus.And the most influential influencers on social media who get way more than six likes on their posts.Paul is saying, "You think you're so clever? Fine. Try to step up and impress God. Try to beat him in a debate."Let's see how that goes.Spoiler alert, he's going to wipe the floor with you. So who's up next to challenge him?As I read this verse this past week, I thought back to playing board games with my dad growing up.You know how some parents let you win or make a concession to, you know, go easy on you?That wasn't my dad's strategy right then.Every time you played a game, he would just demolish me in sorry, monopoly, clue.I have a different opinion, but for some reason, no loss hurt quite as bad as risk.When I was six, seven, some of you get that, some of you don't.When I was six, seven, I kept thinking that my day of victory had finally come.The day had finally arrived when I thought I was wiser than my dad. I was smarter than my dad.I would beat him at a game of risk. And time and time again, I would make a foolish move towards the end of the game.And my dad would ask the question that I could still hear in my mind right now."Son, you sure you want to do that?"And sure enough, I did. And then my dad would totally destroy my wisdom and thwart my discernment.Every single time we got out the risk board.And God does the same exact thing to everyone who opposes Him on the risk board of life.Every single time we put forth a new religion, a new philosophy, a new ideology,I just imagine God asking, "Are you sure you want to do that?"And sure enough, we do. And then sure enough, God totally destroys our wisdom and thwarts our discernment.And Paul goes into even greater detail about why and how God does this in verses 21 through 25."For since in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom,it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified,a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called,both Jews and Greeks, Christ, the power of God and the wisdom of God,for the foolishness of God is wiser than men and the weakness of God is stronger than men."It gives God great joy, great pleasure to expose the so-called wisdom of the worldby saving sinners in a seemingly foolish way, the brutal death of His Son.We lose sight of how foolish the cross would have seemed to Jews and Gentiles alike2,000 years ago because we see crosses everywhere, don't we,T-shirts, bumper stickers on church steeples.Let me ask you, when was the last time you saw someone wearing a T-shirt with the graphic of a gas chamber on it?When was the last time you saw someone wearing a lethal injection or electric chair necklace?These are serious symbols of death and capital punishment.Wearing something like that in public would be so off-putting and reprehensible, right?Well, now you understand why so many Jews and Gentiles were totally put off by the cross 2,000 years ago.Back in Jesus' day, criminals weren't put to death by a firing squad, an electric chair, lethal injection.No, the Romans would nail them to a wooden cross and leave them to ex-fixiate to death.For the unbelieving Jews, the cross was a stumbling block because a crucified Messiah was an oxymoron.It was like saying that someone is a brilliant idiot, a murderous humanitarian, or a lying truth teller.Those words don't naturally belong together in describing the same person.Under the Old Testament law, being hung on a tree was a sign of divine curse.It was a sign that you were being punished by God Himself.So to the Jews, how could the Messiah that chosen one be punished and cursed by God?That seemed insane. It was beyond belief.For the Gentiles, the philosophical Greeks, the cross was folly, from which we get our word "moronic."To them, the cross was stupid.Why would the Creator of everything lower Himself enough to die a death that was reserved for the worst criminals?But for the believing Jew, for the believing Gentile, Christ crucified isn't a stumbling block or moronic.To those who accept the divine call Christ crucified is the power of God and the wisdom of God,for the foolishness of God is wiser than men and the weakness of God is stronger than men.Your own way of thinking may seem wise to you, but I can assure you it is foolish.God's method of salvation may seem foolish, but it is infinitely wise than anything you could possibly brainstorm.Your "I got this on my own" attitude may seem strong to you, but it is nothing but worldly weakness.Christ dying on the cross may make Him seem weak, but that was the strongest act of love we could possibly imagine,totally stronger than anything you could ever hope to accomplish.The wisest one who created all things chose to hang on that cross all those years ago.The strongest one who will uphold this universe by the word of His power chose to take the full wrath of His Father.The source of life chose to lay down his own life so that you could live forever and ever.So if you have not yet trusted in Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior, I want you to look at me and act like your life depends on what I'm about to say because it does.You do not have the power in and of yourself to please God. You don't.You do not have the power to rid yourself of the guilt and shame that you feel deep down.And you know exactly what I'm talking about, those feelings of regret and conviction that you feel.Those oppressive thoughts about your past mistakes that you can't seem to let go of.You do not have the power to erase the stain of sin off of your soul.You don't have the power to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps and save yourself.You do not have any wisdom or power of your own.For the very first time, look to the only source of heavenly wisdom and power, the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ.If you submit to Him, He will save you. He will forgive you if you ask Him to. Christ will have you if you will have Him.Why is self-promotion so foolish?Because it misses the power of the cross.Second reason, because it misses the strength of a weak church.Because it misses the strength of a weak church.Does the wording of that point seem somewhat strange to you? Does that seem disrespectful?Taylor, do you really think the church is weak?Yeah, I do. And that's its greatest strength.If you don't believe me, believe Paul because he says the same exact thing in verses 26 to 28.For consider your calling, brothers. Not many of you are wise according to worldly standards.Not many were powerful. Not many were of noble birth.But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise.God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not to bring to nothing things that are.We just saw that God shows Himself wise to the foolishness of the cross.Now we see that God shows Himself strong through the weakness of His people.Travel back in time with me to recess whenever those teams were picked for dodgeball, kickball, basketball, pick your sport.Was that nerve-wracking for any of you?And some of you are like, "No, actually it was a lot of fun. It wasn't nerve-wracking at all."That's because you were the ringers who were chosen first. Must have been nice to be you.The rest of us were in the middle of the pack or chosen dead last.Why and how are kids chosen in a pickup game of recess?There are two qualifiers, skill and popularity.The best of the best and the coolest of the cool are snatched up first.Is that how it works in the family of God?Does God jump at recruiting the best of the best and the coolest of the cool?No, it's actually the exact opposite.Paul calls the Corinthians to consider who they were and where they came from.Not many of them were Brainiac philosophers, influential leaders and rich aristocrats.No, in the eyes of the world they were stupid, worthless, obscure and poor.But none of that matters.They have been chosen last in a game of kickball, but they were chosen by God himself.And if God chooses you, you are no longer defined by who rejects you.And the pages of the Old Testament and the New Testament are filled with examples of God choosing the weak and the most unexpected.God chose Abraham to father a son and jumpstart the people of Israel when he was as good as dead as the author of Hebrews lovingly describes him.God chose Jacob over Esau, even though Jacob was a slimy liar.God chose Moses to deliver the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt even though Moses was a stuttering murderer.God chose Gideon to defeat the invading Midianites even though Gideon was hiding from the Midianites when he was called by the angel.God chose 12 ordinary men to be the followers of Christ.These men had ordinary and even hateful jobs.The apostle Paul started as a religious Pharisees who held the coats of the men who stoned Stephen.Why does God do this? Why is this God's recruiting strategy?Well, Paul tells us why in verses 27 to 28. Let's read those verses again."But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise. God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not to bring to nothing things that are."That is so counterintuitive, isn't it? That's so different than what we would do if we were God."Worldly reasoning dictates that the church should recruit the most famous athletes, the most polished politicians."Have you ever heard someone say, "Man, that person would make a great Christian?"Wouldn't everybody make a great Christian? Or, "Man, so many people would get saved if that person got saved."That view promotes human wisdom, not God's wisdom. That view promotes human strength, not God's strength.That view acts like God's up in heaven looking over his draft picks like, "Man, I made a lot of mistakes in the first few rounds.""I need some more stars to round out my roster and boost my stats."Now, God is not like you and me. God does not think like you and me.If God needed the biggest "somebodies" of this world, then He would not be somebody worthy of your devotion and worship.God wants to use "nobodies" to show that He needs nobody.God wants to use the most unexpected to bring Himself the most glory.God wants to use the weak to expose those who think they are strong apart from Christ.And I personally believe that's why the Lord called me to be a preacher of His Word and to be a pastor, because I was the most unexpected choice.As a kid, I was terrified to talk in front of people. I had a stuttering problem which I still had to deal with at some level to this day.No one looked at the teenage tailor and thought, "Man, get that guy behind a pulpit ASAP. He is so charismatic. He is so magnetic. He is a shoe-in for ministry."God chose me to be a messenger of the Word to show that all the glory belongs to Him and not to me.If God can use me for His kingdom, then He can use anybody.If God can use someone like me, I guarantee He can use someone like you.Do you feel inadequate to follow Jesus?Do you feel insufficient for the task that He has given to you?Do you feel unqualified for ministry?If you feel that way, then you are the perfect man or woman for the job. Congratulations, you are hired.Thinking that you are unqualified for ministry makes you qualified for ministry.On the other hand, believing that you are qualified for ministry makes you unqualified for ministry.If you think you are strong, you are going to depend on no one else besides yourself.If you think you are strong, I have to warn you, you are not going to like the mission and priorities of this church.We are not interested in teaching self-help nonsense. We are not interested in puffing up your ego.We are not interested in making you a self-reliant person, but we are in the business of training you to be a weak servant of Christ who recognizes your weakness.Are you willing to get on board with that mission? Are you willing to have those priorities?Stop promoting your strength. Stop trying to impress people. Begin to find comfort in your weakness.Stop putting others down so you can feel better about yourself.Stop thinking, "Well, this church can never survive without me. This church can survive without any of us."Stop thinking, "I'm the MVP on God's team." Stop thinking that your opinions and preferences are the most important.Begin to focus on the "we" instead of "me."Why is self-promotion so foolish? Because it misses the power of the cross.Because it misses the strength of a weak church. And finally, because it misses the glory of boasting in Christ.Because it misses the glory of boasting in Christ.In verses 29 through 30, Paul continues to offer another explanation for why God fills his church with weak people.Paul writes that no human being might boast in the presence of God.And because of him, because of God, you are in Christ Jesus who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.Self-promotion doesn't just hurt other people. Most importantly, self-promotion offends God.When you boast before other people, you are actually boasting before God.It's a very bad plan to brag about yourself in the presence of the most important person in all of existence.You know, boasting in yourself is kind of lame, right?Do you know what makes boasting in yourself even lame-er?Boasting about something that you didn't even earn in the first place.Imagine with me that next week I drive up in a brand new Lamborghini.I don't really know what the cool cars are now, so I said Lamborghini, alright?So just fill in the blank, whatever car you want it to be, I guess.I park the car, the door slides open, and I step out with cool sunglasses, driving gloves, a cool leather jacket.And I'm like swinging my keys around, hoping that you'll say something about my car.And as soon as you say, "Pats are Taylor, that's a nice ride."I jump on the opportunity to bask in your glory.Yep, I've won a car like this for 35 years, and it's finally mine.I mean, sure, it costs a fortune, but why not treat yourself?Why not enjoy the fruits of your labor?And then I proudly saunter away, and you come across my dad in the lobby, and you say, "Man, Taylor has such a nice new car."He must have worked so hard to be able to afford that.And my dad looks at you with shock in his eyes, and he says, "What are you talking about?I bought him that car."Doesn't that piece of information kind of change what I presented to you?Doesn't it make my ridiculous outfit and my prideful speech seem even worse to you?But why? Because you can't really boast about something that you received free of charge.And that's what Paul is saying in these verses.If you were a born-again believer, you were in Christ because of the undeserved grace of God.Period, no other reason.You did nothing to earn it.You have received all that Christ has, and you have received all of who Christ is.You have been given everything.You have received so much from Him.Listen to what Paul has to say about this in a few chapters from now in chapter 4 verse 7.What do you have that you did not receive?If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?You have received grace. You have received salvation.Why would you boast like you didn't receive it and like you earned it?Look again at chapter 1 verse 30."And because of Him, because of God, you were in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption."This first presents so many important truths that you cannot forget if you're a true Christian.You are not wise all by your lonesome.You were not born with a sense of righteousness.You cannot be sanctified, set apart, and made holy by your own efforts.You cannot redeem yourself.You could not purchase yourself from slavery to Satan, sin, and death.But according to Paul, someone came to this earth to be your source of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.Who is that one person?Jesus Christ.In Christ, your foolish thinking has been replaced with the very wisdom of God.In Christ, your gross unrighteousness has been exchanged for Christ's perfect righteousness.In Christ, your slavery to sin has been ended so that you can belong to the kindest master imaginable.In Christ, your godly immaturity has been put aside so that you can finally pursue after godly maturity.All of these things are a gift from God, so do not take an ounce of credit for a single gift that He has given to you.So what should you do instead of taking the credit and boasting in yourself?Well, Paul makes it very simple by referencing the prophet Jeremiah in verse 31.He says, "So that as it is written, let the one who boasts, boasts in the Lord."You are to replace self-promotion with Christ's promotion.What is Christ's promotion?Christ's promotion is being on the lookout for opportunities to point every single person in your life to the person and work of the Lord Jesus.Because everyone in your life needs what Jesus has to offer Christians and non-Christians alike.Even those people you don't like very much.Christ's promotion is redirecting all the praise that you receive to Him because He alone deserves it.Christ's promotion looks like being freed from the horrible hobby of trying to fish for other people's compliments.Your meaning no longer hinges on how your boss and your coworkers evaluate your performance.Your identity no longer hangs on what your neighbor thinks about your house, your car, or your lawn.Guys in the room, nobody really cares besides you.Moms, your meaning no longer depends on what other moms think about your kids.You no longer exist to impress people.Life is no longer about you and your boasting is no longer about you.Because here's the hidden secret according to Paul and Jeremiah.You're going to boast.It's going to happen.It's not a question of will you boast.It's a question of who will you boast in.I have a nine-year-old goal retriever named Murdoch and he's still a puppy at heart.One minute he'll be sleeping on the couch and then he'll be running zoomies around the house.Do you all know what zoomies are when you explain that?When dogs run like they're in Kentucky Derby, right? Running in circles around the house.In those moments, I don't try to make Murdoch stop running zoomies because he's going to give energy out in some way.Instead, I open the front door and say, "If you're going to run zoomies, at least run them outside."That's what Paul is saying in these verses.He's saying, "If you're going to boast, boast in the Lord."My dog's crazy playing belongs in the right setting outside.Your bragging, your boasting belongs in the right setting as well.The person and work of Jesus Christ.So what's the big takeaway from this passage?What's the big takeaway from this sermon?I want you to brag as much as you possibly can.I want you to boast until you're blue in the face.I want you to promote from sun up to sun down.You've probably never heard a pastor tell you that before.But never forget this really important detail.You cannot be the focus of your promotion.You cannot be the focus of your bragging and your boasting.If you're the focus of your promotion, you'll miss the power of the cross of Christ.You'll miss the strength of being weak in Christ.You'll miss the glory of boasting in Christ.If you promote Christ and not yourself, you'll find yourself becoming more like Him.If you promote Christ and not yourself, the church will be strengthened.If you promote Christ and not yourself, you'll begin to feel that burden of being the center of existenceand stop your shoulders because you were never meant to bear that.If you promote in Christ, you'll feel stupider,but you'll be wisest in the most important way.If you promote Christ, you'll feel weaker, but you'll actually be stronger.The worship team can make their way forward.You know, boasting in the Lord all by yourself is great.You can boast in the Lord during your personal quiet time,but you know what's even better?When others join in and boast in the Lord with you.Singing as a body of believers is a biblically commanded way to boast in the Lord.As we sing, our unity is on full display in a physical and tangible way.When we sing, our voices come together to form a corporate praise.Our voices come together to promote the one who has given us all that we have.When God's people lay aside all distractions and fear of embarrassment to sing,it's made clear that we boast in Christ and not ourselves.I know what some of you are thinking, "Pastor Taylor, I don't like to sing."Well, too bad because God wants you to sing.So we're going to do that.So let's stand and sing to the one who deserves our praises.Please stand and give all of your passion to promoting God's strength,His wisdom, and His power.

 Today, we see reconciliation between brothers Jacob and Esau, whose relationship was devastated by sin. We understand that, though we constantly sin against God, He is always faithful to forgive and reconcile. As we better understand the grace that God shows us, we better understand the benefits of living according to His plan.We upload our message only version to our church app. If you would like to view this week's entire worship service you can find it by clicking the available link.

 Today, we see reconciliation between brothers Jacob and Esau, whose relationship was devastated by sin. We understand that, though we constantly sin against God, He is always faithful to forgive and reconcile. As we better understand the grace that God shows us, we better understand the benefits of living according to His plan.We upload our message only version to our church app. If you would like to view this week's entire worship service you can find it by clicking the available link.

“Trust but verify.” President Reagan made the phrase famous, but Jacob lived it long before him—trusting God, yet still hedging his bets. As Jacob prepared to meet his brother Esau, fear led him to rely on his own strength instead of God's promises. That night, God met him in a wrestling match—not to destroy him, but to teach him to trust completely. Like Jacob, we often wrestle with doubt, wanting to believe yet still trying to stay in control. But God has already fought—and won—the real battle for us in Jesus. At the cross, the Son of God wrestled with sin and death and rose victorious. So now, we don't need to “verify” God's faithfulness; the empty tomb is proof enough. Whatever fears we face, He still meets us where we are, blesses us, and holds us fast. The victory is His—and by faith, it's ours too.

Want more exclusive content?! http://prometheuslens.supercast.com to sign up for the "All Access Pass" and get early access to episodes, private community, members only episodes, private Q & A's, and coming documentaries. We also have a $4 dollar a month package that gets you early access and an ad free listening experience!====================ABOUT:This was when I first started my podcasting jounrey. I met Tom and Vicki at my first conference and they were AWESOME. They invited me on their show for a conversation. I believe this was my first time going on someone else's show. Enjoy guys!====================

Want more exclusive content?! http://prometheuslens.supercast.com to sign up for the "All Access Pass" and get early access to episodes, private community, members only episodes, private Q & A's, and coming documentaries. We also have a $4 dollar a month package that gets you early access and an ad free listening experience====================

The story of Jacob and Esau is a great example of how anger works out in a family situation.  Esau and Jacob were twins, and Esau was the oldest. When their father is fooled into giving Jacob the birthright, Esau can't get ahold of his anger. We're told that Esau held a grudge against Jacob and consoled himself with thoughts of killing Jacob. And when Esau's father does pronounce a blessing on Esau, he predicts that Esau is going to be driven by anger all of his life. How can you make sure your anger does not imprison and control you? How can you make sure that you control it? This passage in Hebrews gives us some principles: 1) it tells you what anger is, and then, 2) it tells you three ways to handle it. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on April 2, 1995. Series: The Seven Deadly Sins. Scripture: Hebrews 12:14-17. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

After years apart, Jacob and Esau meet. What is the result? A bloodbath? Or reconciliation? Cale looks at Genesis 33. Why does Jacob stop at Succoth?

Want more exclusive content?! http://prometheuslens.supercast.com to sign up for the "All Access Pass" and get early access to episodes, private community, members only episodes, private Q & A's, and coming documentaries. We also have a $4 dollar a month package that gets you early access and an ad free listening experience!====================ABOUT:Join me on my boy Nick's show, The Occult Rejects! Nick has been awesome about inviting me on his pannels when he has big name guests on. So thankful for that brother! In this one got to sit down with Ashton Forbes an we talk about possible hidden government technology!====================

What if the most dangerous thing about a nation isn't its armies, but its envy? In Ezekiel chapter 35, the spotlight falls on Edom—Mount Seir—and a hard truth emerges: God confronts “everlasting enmity,” the kind of hatred that celebrates another people's pain and seizes land under the cover of their loss. We walk through the text line by line and place it in the larger arc of Ezekiel—early judgment on Judah, mid‑book oracles to the nations, and a turn toward restoration—showing how Edom becomes a cautionary tale for every era.We trace Edom's story from Esau and Idumea into the first century with Herod to show that old rivalries have long tails. Then we grapple with God's charges: love of bloodshed, arrogant words against Him, and a bold claim on land He calls His own. It's not a blanket defense of Israel's behavior—Ezekiel spends chapters condemning Israel's sin—but it is a clear boundary against identity‑driven hatred and opportunism. If repentance spared Nineveh, Ezekiel suggests that contempt and violence summon justice. And when nations mock Israel's ruin, they risk mocking Israel's God, who says, “I have heard it.”This conversation leans into the nuance our moment needs. We separate principled critique from corrosive prejudice, ask why the land matters in Scripture, and consider how God's governance of history weighs motives as well as actions. The takeaway is both sobering and hopeful: God judges envy and bloodshed, guards His name and His promises, and prepares a path toward restoration in Ezekiel chapter 36 of — His “I will,” not Israel's merit.If this episode challenged your assumptions or clarified your thinking, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a rating or review so more listeners can join the conversation. What question do you want us to tackle next?Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

Who is the mysterious figure that Jacob wrestles with? God? an angel? And why? Is there any significance to this wrestling match happening near a river? Cale examines Genesis 32 as Jacob prepares to meet his brother, Esau.

Want more exclusive content?! http://prometheuslens.supercast.com to sign up for the "All Access Pass" and get early access to episodes, private community, members only episodes, private Q & A's, and coming documentaries. We also have a $4 dollar a month package that gets you early access and an ad free listening experience!====================ABOUT:Join Doc Brown and Mario from Symbolic Studies ( ⁨@symbolicstudies⁩ ) as they dive deep into the world of symbolism and astrology. In this enlightening episode, they explore the intricate connections between ancient myths, zodiac signs, and esoteric traditions.Discover the hidden meanings behind symbols like the chariot, the number seven, and the mysterious figure of Abraxis. Whether you're a seasoned symbologist or new to the field, this conversation promises to expand your understanding of the universe's symbolic language. Tune in for a journey through the stars and beyond! ===================

In this week's deep dive, KB unpacks the powerful and complex story of Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. From the struggle in Rebekah's womb to the infamous moment when Esau traded his birthright for a bowl of lentil stew, KB explores how this biblical tale reveals the consequences of impatience, deception, and misplaced priorities. Through clear storytelling and relatable insight, she highlights the difference between a birthright and a blessing, showing how God's promises are fulfilled not through manipulation, but through faith and surrender.Plus, KB shares updates on her Bible reading plans, upcoming Fed by the Fruit merch launch, and October's memory verse, Jeremiah 29:11, leaving listeners encouraged to walk in faith, hope, and trust in God's plan.This episode serves as both an informative guide to embrace a healthier, more balanced lifestyle, encouraging listeners to embark on their journeys with renewed vigor and compassion.Reach out to KB on Instagram and share your thoughts.

This is not the time for you to move without God. This is not the time for you to get so desperate that you neglect discernment. This is not the time for you to abandon the Promises of God for temporary pleasure. This is the time to be well positioned and unmovable, no matter what may be breaking out in your life.The story of Jacob & Esau is complex. It's a story of deception, strategy, discernment, timing, and positioning. It's a story about how when we don't know the value of what we have, we'll squander it for much less than its worth. And when one person squanders, there is always someone waiting in the wings to get it.In this season, will you squander or will you strategize? Will you trust that God will do just what He said or will you leap at the first opportunity in desperation?Reference Scriptures:Genesis 25-28

Sometimes you pray... and nothing happens. You’re asking for something good, but God isn’t budging. What’s happening? You might be wrestling with God.Maybe He’s been leading you to do something—and you’ve resisted... You won’t let Him into that one area of your life. You won’t break off that relationship that drains you spiritually. You won’t give up that habit that drags you down. You’re afraid to take that step of faith.Remember Jonah? God said, “Go.” Jonah said, “No.” And God said, “Oh?”If that’s you—you’re not alone. Even Jacob wrestled with God. His struggle began with resisting and ended with resting. He stopped fighting and started clinging—saying, “I will not let You go until You bless me.” Pastor Greg Laurie shares more in this message. Notes: Focus verse - Genesis 32 God’s plans are better than ours. Have you ever prayed and prayed for something, and no answer came? The Bible urges us to bring our needs to God.Philippians 4:6 (NKJV) Wrestling with God is not necessarily a bad thing. “My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right."—Abraham Lincoln Hosea 12:3 (NLT)Even in the womb, Jacob struggled with his brother; when he became a man, he even fought with God. Hosea 12:4 (NLT)Yes, he wrestled with the angel and won. He wept and pleaded for a blessing from him. There at Bethel he met God face to face, and God spoke to him. Jesus is the Passover lamb in Exodus; in Numbers, He is the bronze serpent lifted up. A Christophany is an appearance of Jesus in the Old Testament. Jacob was wrestling with Jesus Himself. Genesis 25:23 (NKJV)And the LORD said to her: "Two nations are in your womb, …And the older shall serve the younger." Psalm 139:14,16 The meaning of Jacob’s name isheel-catcher, contender, supplanter, grabber. God does not just see you for what you are, but for what you can become. God sees things differently than we do.We see failure, God sees potential.We see the past, God sees the future.We see sin, God sees restoration. Time showed that Jacob was a righteous manand Esau was an ungodly man. It’s not about how we start this race in life but how we finish it. It was not an easy road for Jacob, and that was his own fault. Hebrews 12:16 (NLT)Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his birthright as the firstborn son for a single meal. When we get tired of praying, we start scheming, and we make a mess of things. Rebecca sent Jacob to visit her brother, Laban.On the way there, Jacob had an encounter with God. All Jacob had to do was wait on God’s timing. Jacob met his match in his uncle Laban.The trickster met the trickster extraordinaire. We reap what we sow. Christians should try to live in peace with people.Romans 12:18 God meets us at whatever level He finds usand lifts us to where He wants us to be. God will come to you in just the right way.Hebrews 4:16 Read Genesis 32:24–30 Jacob was wrestling with Jesus Christ. We need to get away from all the distractions of life and get alone with God. When you get to the end of yourself, you get to the beginning of God. Now, instead of fighting with God, Jacob is clinging to Him. In surrender to God’s plan, Jacob found what he always wanted,the very blessing he asked God for. We win by losing.Luke 17:33 Genesis 32:28 (NLT)"Your name will no longer be Jacob," the man told him. "From now on you will be called Israel, because you have fought with God and with men and have won." "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."—Corrie Ten Boom Are you running from God?The good news is God is running to you. Join us for the Harvest Crusade: Hope for America on November 16! --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners. Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes you pray... and nothing happens. You’re asking for something good, but God isn’t budging. What’s happening? You might be wrestling with God.Maybe He’s been leading you to do something—and you’ve resisted... You won’t let Him into that one area of your life. You won’t break off that relationship that drains you spiritually. You won’t give up that habit that drags you down. You’re afraid to take that step of faith.Remember Jonah? God said, “Go.” Jonah said, “No.” And God said, “Oh?”If that’s you—you’re not alone. Even Jacob wrestled with God. His struggle began with resisting and ended with resting. He stopped fighting and started clinging—saying, “I will not let You go until You bless me.” Pastor Greg Laurie shares more in this message. Notes: Focus verse - Genesis 32 God’s plans are better than ours. Have you ever prayed and prayed for something, and no answer came? The Bible urges us to bring our needs to God.Philippians 4:6 (NKJV) Wrestling with God is not necessarily a bad thing. “My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right."—Abraham Lincoln Hosea 12:3 (NLT)Even in the womb, Jacob struggled with his brother; when he became a man, he even fought with God. Hosea 12:4 (NLT)Yes, he wrestled with the angel and won. He wept and pleaded for a blessing from him. There at Bethel he met God face to face, and God spoke to him. Jesus is the Passover lamb in Exodus; in Numbers, He is the bronze serpent lifted up. A Christophany is an appearance of Jesus in the Old Testament. Jacob was wrestling with Jesus Himself. Genesis 25:23 (NKJV)And the LORD said to her: "Two nations are in your womb, …And the older shall serve the younger." Psalm 139:14,16 The meaning of Jacob’s name isheel-catcher, contender, supplanter, grabber. God does not just see you for what you are, but for what you can become. God sees things differently than we do.We see failure, God sees potential.We see the past, God sees the future.We see sin, God sees restoration. Time showed that Jacob was a righteous manand Esau was an ungodly man. It’s not about how we start this race in life but how we finish it. It was not an easy road for Jacob, and that was his own fault. Hebrews 12:16 (NLT)Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his birthright as the firstborn son for a single meal. When we get tired of praying, we start scheming, and we make a mess of things. Rebecca sent Jacob to visit her brother, Laban.On the way there, Jacob had an encounter with God. All Jacob had to do was wait on God’s timing. Jacob met his match in his uncle Laban.The trickster met the trickster extraordinaire. We reap what we sow. Christians should try to live in peace with people.Romans 12:18 God meets us at whatever level He finds usand lifts us to where He wants us to be. God will come to you in just the right way.Hebrews 4:16 Read Genesis 32:24–30 Jacob was wrestling with Jesus Christ. We need to get away from all the distractions of life and get alone with God. When you get to the end of yourself, you get to the beginning of God. Now, instead of fighting with God, Jacob is clinging to Him. In surrender to God’s plan, Jacob found what he always wanted,the very blessing he asked God for. We win by losing.Luke 17:33 Genesis 32:28 (NLT)"Your name will no longer be Jacob," the man told him. "From now on you will be called Israel, because you have fought with God and with men and have won." "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."—Corrie Ten Boom Are you running from God?The good news is God is running to you. Join us for the Harvest Crusade: Hope for America on November 16! --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners. Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Genesis 36:1-43

On this episode, Paul White talks about the story of Esau and Jacob. Accompanying scripture: Hebrews 12:16.