Preparing for Sunday

The Journey of Covenant Life

In Genesis 35, God’s faithfulness to His covenant people is revealed in His calling Jacob and his family back to Bethel to renew the covenant through worship. Jacob responds immediately by calling his household to put away their idols and purify themselves. Covenant renewal comes through worship, but worship on God’s terms, not ours. And yet, covenant life does not remove suffering or conflict—Rachel dies in childbirth, Reuben rebels, and struggles persist—but God’s promises remain steadfast. Ultimately, Jacob is reunited with his father Isaac, fulfilling God’s promise and pointing forward to Christ, the greater Jacob. Come this Sunday and hear God call you to renew the covenant you enjoy in Christ—trusting in His faithfulness and resting in the hope of His promises. Soli Deo Gloria!

Big Idea: Through renewal, suffering, and hope, God remains faithful. 

Movement 1 - Renewal through worship

Movement 2 - Worship through Suffering

Movement 3 - Suffering through hope

Preparation Questions: Genesis 35:1-29

1. In what ways have you experienced God calling you back to Him during seasons of failure or sin? How did you respond? 

2. Are there “idols” or distractions in your life that need to be put away in order to fully worship God and be renewed? What is holding you back?

3. How can you hold on to covenant hope during times of loss, conflict, or suffering? Try and be specific.

4. How does Christ’s faithfulness give you confidence that God will fulfill His promises, even when life feels uncertain or painful? What future promise can fill your present with hope?