JACOB'S LADDER

The Aftermath

Jacob had received Isaac’s blessing by deceit, but here Isaac willingly gives it.

This account reminds us of the earthly consequences of our sin.

Galatians 6:7–8 “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”

Just thinking of Ishmael should have reminded Esau of the foolishness of having multiple wives. (see Genesis 2:24)

Jacob’s Dream

Jacob’s journey is going to take him about 450 miles.

Providence, Power, and Dominion on display.

The Lord above the ladder presents Him as sovereign over all. The angels ascending and descending are doing His bidding.

See Psalm 103:19–22...

The Lord wants Jacob to know that He is on the throne and will care for Jacob and fulfill His promises.

The Lord promised to give him the blessing of Abraham. He also promised to be with Jacob, to keep him wherever he goes, and to bring him back to the land of promise.

Hebrews 1:14 “Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?”

2 Kings 6:16 “He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.””

Angels were very involved in the life of Abraham. He even told his servant that the Lord would send an angel before him to prosper his way so that he could get a wife for Isaac (see Genesis 24:40)

Jacob’s Realization and Decision

Jacob clung to God’s promise to be with Him and provide for his necessities. He knew if the Lord was with him, he had enough.

Hebrews 13:5 “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.””

1 Timothy 6:6–8 “But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.”

God’s presence and His good promises moved Jacob to worship and serve the Lord.

Romans 12:1 “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”

2 Corinthians 9:7 “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Luz means almond tree and Bethel means house of God.

A Deeper Truth

Colossians 2:17 “These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.”

The Lord Jesus alluded to this passage in reference to Himself.

John 1:51 “And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.””

1 Timothy 2:5 “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,”

John 14:6 “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”