Strife grows between the households of Jacob and Laban as Jacob’s wealth increases at the expense of Laban. The LORD assures Jacob that He will be with Jacob as Jacob returns to the Promised Land. Jacob’s wives faithfully agree to go with him, recognizing that their blessing will be found in the God of Jacob, not the false gods of Laban. Jacob stealthily leaves by night. When Laban overtakes Jacob, the LORD warns Laban not to offend Jacob at all, a reminder that the LORD will keep the promise He has made.

Rev. Sam Beltz, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Oskaloosa, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 31:1-24.

To learn more about St. John in Oskaloosa, visit stjohnosky.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]