16 Mar Jacob and Esau: A Look into God’s Election and Human Folly
Preacher Huijun - 3 July 2014
Understanding Christian Paradoxes
Often, it seems that we are rejected by the world. Why is it that after becoming a Christian, knowing the word of God, we seem to be unable to fit in this world? The desire, inclination and fondness of things seem to change. As a result, we can no longer live peacefully in this world and enjoying what we used to enjoy. If children of God want to have victory in this world, it is not to live in congruent with the world's mindset but to stand firm in the truth of God, especially in paradoxical situations. Although uncomfortable, the struggle we experience is pleasing in God's eyes because its very presence proves that there’s a new person inside us who wants to follow and submit to God. To the world, Christians may seem to lose all things when they follow God; but to children of God, it is when they obey God that they receive the greatest freedom and joy that surpass all earthly transient and momentary things.
From Series: "Topical Messages"
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Which comes first in salvation? Did we first believe in Jesus thus we are saved? Or were we first elected by God thus we could be saved in the end? From the example of Jacob and Esau, it is clear that salvation first came from God rather than any human factor. But while God offers grace, let us not be foolish to miss out on His grace. Often, when we exaggerate our needs and feelings and pursue instant gratification, we fall into folly. But the word of God can make us wise for salvation. Thus, may we treasure the word of God and take it seriously, so that we can stay on the course of wisdom.
Verses to Read: <Genesis 25:21-34>
1. God’s election not dependent on human works.
1) Esau and Jacob both undeserving sinners.
- Esau’s folly and sin did not make Jacob less sinful.
- Though God does not approve of Jacob’s method, God can still use it to fulfill His plan.
2) Salvation is by God’s sovereign grace alone.
- Divine grace not based on any human factor.
- Receive assurance of salvation from “God-factor”.
- Salvation starts from God, not us <Ep 1:4; Ro 10:14-15>.
- God’s saving plan cannot be frustrated by human sin.
3) Yet, we cannot judge who is “Esau” or “Jacob”.
2. The folly of despising spiritual blessings.
* Birthright: Special status of firstborn >>> symbolizes the father’s strength >>> double share of inheritance
1) It was not merely a moment of folly for Esau, but he had always been foolish.
- <Heb 12:16>: Esau was godless to sell his birthright.
- <Gen 26:34-35> Esau married pagan women, bringing grief to his parents.
2) How can we avoid falling into folly?
(a) Beware of “exaggerated needs or feelings”.
(b) Beware of “instant gratification”.
- Impatience = Folly
(c) Restore wisdom from the word of God.
- Always choose to recall, believe and act by God’s truth first.
- The word of God makes us wise for salvation <2 Ti 3:15>.
3. The struggle between people of God and those who are not.
- <v23> “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you shall be divided.” [ESV]
- Spiritual VS Carnal; Holy Spirit VS Flesh
- We need to live differently from the world.
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