Sermon Series – Jacob, Punk to Patriarch
Jacob’s journey to faith and accepting his place in God’s plan is full of schemes, betrayal, and family dysfunction. Yet, in the midst of the mess, God remains steadfast- offering relationship, provision, purpose, and new life. In Jacob’s story, we see our own mess and God’s saving grace for us as well.

Message: Claiming our Birthright
Scriptures: Genesis 25:19-34; Romans 8:12-17
Offered 8/28/16 at Trinity United Methodist Church, Sarasota Florida

Jacob is a schemer, an exploiter. He knows exactly how to manipulate Esau in order to get what he wants. He’s stirring up trouble. Cooking up a plan. He’s cut throat. He’s willing to take advantage of anybody to get what he wants, including his twin brother.

Esau is impulsive. He’s short sighted, reactionary, and quite the drama queen. He’s all about instant gratification. He’s gotta have it now. He makes the trade, eats, drinks, gets up, and leaves. Does he even consider the consequences of his choices? Does he even give them a second thought? He’s given up a superior inheritance for a bowl of beans. He’s despised his birthright for a full belly. It’s such a big deal, his descendants aren’t named after him (Esauites), they’re named after the stew, the red stuff, Edomites.

Through Christ, we are offered a beautiful, powerful, everlasting birthright. Beware trading your birthright for something fleeting. Claim your superior inheritance in Christ Jesus.

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I’m excited to now offer mp3’s of my Sunday messages. A huge thank you to Leon and my brothers and sisters at Trinity United Methodist Church, Sarasota for all their help in making this possible. If you’re ever in Sarasota, please drop by for worship Sundays at 9am or 10:30am, or drop by during the week for a chat or small group. You and those you love are always welcome.

© 2016 Lisa Ann Moss Degrenia
Contact Lisa for posting and publication considerations.