Question from a friend of WordTruth Ministries:>>> What is the bible
actually saying in Genesis Ch 33:1-16? I really need this broken down so
that I may understand it.
>>>
WordTruth.Com Response:
This is the grand reunion of two brothers who had been separated for many
years unnecessarily by their own failure to pursue the process of
forgiveness. Jacob and Esau were two very different individuals. Those
differences were the source of conflict in their relationship. To make
matters worse, their parents showed favoritism between the two. Things
became so bad that Esau eventually left home with murderous intent in his
heart.
God worked in both their lives for many years to give them perspective,
humility, and an open heart. Finally, it was Jacob that reached out to Esau
in this passage to reconcile with his brother.
(Gen. 33:1-2) Here we see Jacob approaching Esau with his family,
servants, cattle, and possessions. He divides them into groups for their
own safety since he was unsure how Esau would react.
(Gen. 33:3) Jacob went first and bowed before Esau. Jacob wanted to
show Esau he was sorry for the way he had wronged him in their youth.
That he did this 7 times indicates completion - his total humility
before Esau.
(Gen. 33:4) Jacob could not have been more surprised than when his
brother actually ran to meet him. Instead of a sword, Esau met Jacob
with a hug and a kiss. What an incredible reunion!
(Gen. 33:5-7) Jacob presented his rather large family to Esau.
(Gen. 33:8-11) Prior to his arrival, Jacob had sent many gifts and
cattle to Esau. This was to pave the way for his hopeful reunion with
his brother. Jacob did know that God had prospered Esau through the
years and that his brother was also a wealthy man. At Jacob's
insistence, Esau kept the gifts.
(Gen. 33:12-15) Esau invited his brother to head back to Esau's home
in Seir. Jacob's children and cattle needed time to rest and move more
slowly so Jacob told his brother he would meet up with him later. Jacob
desperately wanted to be in good standing with Esau - the brother he had
wronged so many years ago.
(Gen. 33:16-17) So Esau went to his home and Jacob established a new
home in Succoth.
May God bless you with His wisdom and the courage to follow
Jesus!
Rev. Randy Lariscy :-)
Director - WordTruth Ministries
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