The story of Jacob provides another important turning point in The Story. His role is so significant that the nation of his descendants derives its national name from Jacob’s new name, divinely given: Israel.
“You shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with humans, and have prevailed.”
God appeared to Jacob again when he came from Paddan-aram, and he blessed him. God said to him, “Your name is Jacob; no longer shall you be called Jacob, but Israel shall be your name.” So he was called Israel. God said to him, “I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall come from you, and kings shall spring from you. The land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac I will give to you, and I will give the land to your offspring after you.”
Jacob/Israel inherits the covenant God created with Father Abraham and receives the blessing of land and descendants.
This week also initiates readings in the Gospel of Mark, probably the first gospel written about 40 years after Jesus.
And this week wraps up Romans. Pay attention to Paul’s summary of his arguments offered in chapter 15. As dense as his long convoluted theological presentation is throughout this important work, his conclusion is clear and succinct: “Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
As You Read resource for Week 6
https://livinginthestory.com/2016/02/as-you-read-week-six-jacob/
Charlotte’s Living in The Story blog: Wrestling with God
https://livinginthestory.com/2015/01/wrestling-with-god/
