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Group Discussion
Questions for facilitating dynamic discussion
The Reckoning
May 31,2025
Week 6: A Joyful Reunion
Jeff Griffin
Genesis 33:1-20
In our final week of our study of Jacob’s Journey, we witnessed a beautiful reconciliation between Jacob and Esau. Esau demonstrated a gracious forgiveness that reflected the heart of God. We too need to study Esau’s forgiveness to improve our understanding of God’s grace toward us.
Jeff opened his sermon by discussing the historic Route 66. Tell the group about a favorite road trip you have taken.
1. Reread Genesis 33:3: “Jacob went on ahead and bowed down to the ground seven times as he approached his brother.”
How does this treatment of his brother differ from how Jacob treated his brother 20 years earlier?
2. Reread Genesis 33:4: “Esau ran to meet Jacob, he threw his arms around him and kissed him. And they wept.”
Tell the group about a reconciliation that you have experienced.
3. Reread Genesis 33:8-9: “Esau asked, ‘What’s the meaning of all these flocks and herds I met?’ ‘To find favor in your eyes, my lord,’ Jacob said. But Esau said, ‘I already have plenty, my brother. Keep what you have.’”
How does this text help us understand grace?
4. Reread Genesis 33:10 (MSG): “Jacob said to Esau, ‘When I saw your face, it was like seeing the face of God smiling at me!’”
Why is it hard for us to imagine God lovingly smiling at us?
5. In what ways is the reconciliation between Jacob and Esau similar to the Parable of the Prodigal Son?
6. If we grew to believe that God is aways looking at us with warm affection, how would this belief change our lives?
Take turns saying this Priestly Blessing to the person on your right:
“May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and
be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.”
Numbers 6:22-26 (NLT)