The Thread: Part IISample

God's Grace in the Old Testament

Twins, two nations, two peoples, one will be stronger than the other, the older shall serve the younger: why?

From the beginning, the "birthright" was always to the firstborn son. That gave the firstborn a position of authority in the family and a double portion of the inheritance. Yet, in this instance, God's answer to Rebecca's difficult pregnancy is a declaration that her younger son will receive the birthright of inheritance and authority.

God chooses—by grace—those who become part of his plan to advance his kingdom. Jacob was not selected for doing anything right, and Esau was not rejected for doing anything wrong. Jacob was chosen by God's grace; Esau was rejected by God's sovereignty.

From the garden of Eden, God had set a plan in motion to redeem humankind from our sin and rebellion. That plan involves his grace. God doesn't change: just like Jacob, we are chosen by God's grace, not because of our works.

Question: What was the point of this change in birthright protocol?

Prayer: How has God's grace in your life revealed his choice for your adoption as his son or daughter? How do you fit into God's plan to represent Jesus to your world? If you don't know, ask him. He will let you know.