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How does one go about studying the Bible? What is the process one uses to preach a sound biblical sermon based off the text of the Bible? Pastor used our time in Genesis 36 last Sunday as an opportunity to teach our church how he handles the process of studying God’s Word and preparing a sermon.

An important principle to remember is that properly understanding and studying God’s Word requires great care and effort. I was challenged from this workshop-sermon to take greater care in my own personal study of God’s Word. Frequently, when I read Scripture I quickly read through a passage and then close my Bible and call it good. I need to be more diligent in asking good questions of the text that I am reading, all the while taking good notes about the things I am reading and observing. Understanding God’s Word is always worth the care and effort of careful study.

As we concluded our study on the genealogy of Esau, we were able to make the following observations: God made Esau into a mighty nation; Esau/Edom grew prosperous and had many kings; Edom had great political significance. Genesis 37 begins with a comment on Jacob’s sojourning. This juxtaposed against Esau’s settling and building causes us to ponder the many differences between Jacob and Esau. For the original readers of Genesis (the people of Israel having just come out of Egypt), this juxtaposition would have been a stark reminder of all the wonderful things (from an earthly perspective) that the nation of Edom had versus the seeming lack of things that Israel had. They had no land to call their own, no houses, no kings, and no political significance. However, as we continue to follow the story of these two nations we will see that having the promises of God’s Word is far greater than any amount of prosperity or significance.

I too can be tempted by what the world has to offer. Hearing someone else’s success story can tempt me to envy or jealousy. Looking at other people who have a nicer house, more money, a well-manicured lawn, a nice car that never breaks down, or backyard pool can distract me from what is truly important. “Set your mind on things above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Col 3:2-3). As God’s chosen people the children of Israel had to be reminded of what was truly important in life. As a child of God I too must be reminded of what is truly important in this life.

May I be faithful to live my life demonstrating faithfulness to God’s Word and redirecting my thoughts to heavenly things as I go throughout this week.