Year in the Bible
Week Three: Named
This week, we continue through Genesis and Mark with the theme Named.
Jacob is given a new name: Israel. He receives this name in the context of his relationship with God. In contrast, the Sadducees seek rules and try to trap Jesus within them. Jesus doesn't play that game. Instead, he returns to relationship and its everlasting nature.
This Week's Readings: Genesis 28-40; Mark 11-15; Psalms 111, 145, 12
A Few Things to Notice
Jacob's story is messy. Following his deception to receive his father's blessing, he leaves home fearing his brother Esau. Throughout these chapters, we see God continuing to work for good despite the messes human beings make.
Don't move too quickly past the painful moments. We seek not a Pollyanna faith, but a deep faith that wrestles with a world in which bad things happen. Pay attention to what God does in response.
Mark 11–15 brings us to the crucifixion of Jesus. As Jesus moves toward the cross, the question of his identity becomes increasingly clear. When Jesus dies, he is confessed as God's Son.
Read, Reflect, and Discuss
This week's discussion centers on Genesis 35:9–15 and Mark 12:18–27.
- What are your initial reactions to these readings?
- What surprised, challenged, bothered, or encouraged you this week?
- What connections do you see between these passages?
- Jacob receives his new name, Israel, from God. What does a name communicate about our relationships with others? How does God's relationship with Jacob shape your understanding of God?
- Jacob is moving through uncertain and challenging circumstances. How have you experienced God in similar moments?
- The Sadducees test Jesus with a question about rules. Jesus responds by returning to God's identity and relationship with God's people. How can rules sometimes get in the way of our relationship with God?
- Do rules matter? If God is relational, what can we learn about how relationships look and work?
- What else stood out to you?
Going Further
Explore Bible Project resources on Genesis 12–50, Mark, and how the Old Testament is arranged, as well as Luther Seminary's Enter the Bible.
This week, pay attention to the names God gives us and the relationships through which God reminds us who we are.
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