This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Genesis, the 1st book in the Bible. Taught by our pastor, Simeon Forder, at our Sunday morning service on the 21st April 2024.

About this book

Genesis is the first book in the Bible, and in its more than 1500 verses, there are over 50 prophecies, 100+ commands, over 70 promises, and almost 100 distinct messages from God. As well as recording the firsts of so many things — including the first marriage, sin, child, murder, death, laughs, tears — this book also explains God’s established order in all things; from creation to Israel, marriage to tithing, and all before the law is even mentioned. But ultimately, this book points to Jesus as our Saviour, not only in obvious ways, but in its smaller details too.

About this study

These two chapters offer a stark contrast to each other. In chapter 33 we see Esau show a great deal of maturity, as he and Jacob reconcile after 20 years apart (quite the different expectation to what Jacob had feared). Then in chapter 34 we see Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, take matters into their own hands, taking revenge against the people of the city of Shechem. In these examples there is great challenge for how we act when we are hurt, offended, or upset by others.

Application questions

• Are you holding a grudge? If so, what are you doing about it?
• Who do you need to forgive?
• Are you letting anger and wrath fester in your life?