Deception

Intentionality

Genesis 27:18–30 ESV

18 So he went in to his father and said, “My father.” And he said, “Here I am. Who are you, my son?” 19 Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn. I have done as you told me; now sit up and eat of my game, that your soul may bless me.” 20 But Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have found it so quickly, my son?” He answered, “Because the Lord your God granted me success.” 21 Then Isaac said to Jacob, “Please come near, that I may feel you, my son, to know whether you are really my son Esau or not.” 22 So Jacob went near to Isaac his father, who felt him and said, “The voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” 23 And he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau’s hands. So he blessed him. 24 He said, “Are you really my son Esau?” He answered, “I am.” 25 Then he said, “Bring it near to me, that I may eat of my son’s game and bless you.” So he brought it near to him, and he ate; and he brought him wine, and he drank. 26 Then his father Isaac said to him, “Come near and kiss me, my son.” 27 So he came near and kissed him. And Isaac smelled the smell of his garments and blessed him and said, “See, the smell of my son is as the smell of a field that the Lord has blessed! 28 May God give you of the dew of heaven and of the fatness of the earth and plenty of grain and wine. 29 Let peoples serve you, and nations bow down to you. Be lord over your brothers, and may your mother’s sons bow down to you. Cursed be everyone who curses you, and blessed be everyone who blesses you!” 30 As soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob, when Jacob had scarcely gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, Esau his brother came in from his hunting.

Everything was thought out. Everything was planned. In the moment, it is easy to exaggerate or fib about a story. However, it is just as intentional as Rebekah and Jacob.

This is the second time that Jacob has deceived his family. Isaac was suspicious.

Why do we lie?

Why do we justify our actions?

Be careful of who you are listening too. Jacob was following his mother’s wishes. We emulate the people we look up too.

Why was Jacob still blessed even though he gained the blessing through sin?

Sin separates. After this interaction, Jacob is forced to flee for his life. He never sees his mom again and forced out of the promised land.

What happens when we make plans without God?

God, however, is faithful to Jacob and we see him reconcile the family and bring him back.

What does that tell us about who God is?

Who’s approval means the most to you?

Why can we Trust God?