The LORD hears the cries of the poor and needy, and so he opens the womb of Leah, the wife whom Jacob does not love. The names of her first four sons reveal her growing faith in the LORD, particularly the name “Judah,” the son through whom the promised Christ will eventually come. The reality of the multiple women in Jacob’s life quickly leads to family turmoil, yet the LORD continues to keep His promise that the descendants of Abraham will become numerous, even in the midst of human sin. After years of bearing the reproach of barrenness, the LORD finally opens Rachel’s womb, and she gives birth to Joseph.

Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Atchison, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 29:31-30:24.

To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinityatchison.org.

“In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected]