Men’s Night May 4th, 2024

Genesis 28:10-22 — Jacob's Dream at Bethel

This passage provides a significant moment in Jacob’s life when he experiences a divine encounter in his dream. The passage emphasizes God's promises to Jacob and his response to those promises, which is a valuable lesson for men about recognizing and embracing God's direction in their lives.

Key Verses: Genesis 28:20-22

"Then Jacob made a vow, saying, ‘If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.’”

Discussion Topics and Questions

1. God's Guidance and Our Plans

Topic: God's guidance is evident in this passage as Jacob encounters Him in a dream.

Q: Why did Jacob have a dream about a ladder? A: Because he wanted to reach new heights!

Discussion Question: Have you ever experienced a moment when you felt God was guiding you? How did you respond?Discussion Question: What are some ways we can discern God's direction in our lives today?

Discussion Question: How do we react when God's plans for our lives seem different from our own?

2. Trusting God in Uncertain Times

Topic: Jacob is in the midst of an uncertain journey, yet God assures him of His presence and protection.

Q: Why did Jacob trust God in uncertain times? A: Because he knew it ladder be okay!

Discussion Question: How do you typically respond to uncertainty in your life?

Discussion Question: What are some ways we can learn to trust God more during uncertain times?

Discussion Question: Are there areas of your life right now where you need to trust God more fully?

3. Making Commitments to God

Topic: Jacob makes a vow to God after his dream, promising to serve Him.

Q: Why did Jacob make a vow to God? A: Because he wanted to ladder his way up to heaven!

Discussion Question: Have you ever made a commitment or vow to God? How did it impact your life?

Discussion Question: What are some areas in our lives where we need to be more committed to God?

Discussion Question: How can we ensure that our commitments to God are sincere and long-lasting?

4. God's Promises and Our Responses

Topic: God makes several promises to Jacob in the dream, and Jacob responds by setting up a pillar as a memorial.

Q: Why was God’s promise to Jacob like a credit card? A: Because it had a lot of great benefits!

Discussion Question: What are some of the promises of God that have impacted your life?

Discussion Question: How should we respond to God's promises in our lives?

Discussion Question: How can we ensure that we are living in alignment with God's promises and purpose for us?

5. Worship and Thanksgiving

Topic: Jacob sets up a stone and makes a vow, which can be seen as an act of worship.

Q: Why did Jacob set up a pillar after his dream? A: Because he was "stone" cold serious about worshiping God!

Discussion Question: How do you express worship and thanksgiving to God in your daily life?

Discussion Question: What are some things you are thankful for that God has done in your life recently?

Discussion Question: How can we cultivate a lifestyle of worship and gratitude?