Genesis 28: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Genesis 28 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In Genesis chapter 28, Jacob embarks on a journey to Paddan-aram to find a wife, following his parents' commandments and in search of a union with his relatives as instructed. As he travels, he stops for the night at a certain place, using a stone as a pillow. During his sleep, he has a profound dream of a ladder set up on the earth, reaching to heaven, with angels ascending and descending on it.

Key verse

“He dreamed. Behold, a stairway set upon the earth, and its top reached to heaven. Behold, the angels of God ascending and descending on it.”
Genesis 28:12 (WEB)

Outline

Genesis 28:1–4 Isaac Blesses Jacob
Genesis 28:5–9 Esau's Response
Genesis 28:10–15 Jacob's Dream at Bethel
Genesis 28:16–19 Jacob's Realization
Genesis 28:20–22 Jacob's Vow of Commitment

Discussion questions

In v6, why does Esau see a need to take a wife from Ishmael?
What is the 'stairway' in v12 described as doing in Jacob's dream?
God's promise in vv. 14-15: why does God assure Jacob of His presence?
Jacob's vow in vv. 20-21: what does this indicate about his faith commitment?
When have you experienced a moment where you recognized God’s presence like Jacob did in v16?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 28: Joshua 1, Genesis 35, Genesis 26.

Before next time: read Genesis 29.