Overview:

Genesis 35 recounts a significant spiritual renewal for Jacob as he returns to Bethel, the place where God first appeared to him. This chapter highlights key events, including Jacob’s spiritual recommitment, the purification of his household, the reaffirmation of God’s covenant, the death of Rachel and Isaac, and the birth of Benjamin. In this chapter, we see Jacob’s ongoing relationship with God, the fulfillment of promises, and the bittersweet realities of life as he experiences both joy and loss.

Key themes in this chapter include renewal in God’s presence, purification from idols, covenant faithfulness, God’s protection, and the inevitability of death and loss. Genesis 35 reveals that God’s promises endure through life’s ups and downs, and it calls believers to live in continual faithfulness to God.

Historical and Literary Context:

Genesis 35 takes place after the troubling events of Genesis 34, where Jacob’s sons Simeon and Levi took violent revenge on Shechem’s people. Jacob, now instructed by God, is called to return to Bethel, the place where God had previously met him (Genesis 28). Bethel holds a special significance in Jacob’s spiritual journey as the location of his initial encounter with God. The chapter transitions from the violence and conflict of the previous chapter to a focus on spiritual renewal, covenant faithfulness, and personal loss.

The chapter also includes the deaths of two key figures in Jacob’s life—Rachel and Isaac—marking a transition in the patriarchal narrative as Jacob assumes the central role in the unfolding of God’s promises to Abraham’s descendants.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points:

1. Spiritual Renewal and Returning to Bethel:

At the beginning of Genesis 35, God instructs Jacob to return to Bethel, the place where He had first appeared to Jacob when he fled from Esau:

“Then God said to Jacob, ‘Go up to Bethel and settle there, and build an altar there to God, who appeared to you when you were fleeing from your brother Esau'” (Genesis 35:1).

Jacob’s return to Bethel represents a spiritual renewal and recommitment to God. It is a place of remembrance where Jacob had once experienced God’s promises, and now he returns to fulfill his vow and renew his relationship with God. Before going to Bethel, Jacob commands his household to purify themselves and rid themselves of foreign gods:

“So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, ‘Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you, and purify yourselves and change your clothes'” (Genesis 35:2).

Jacob’s command for purification signifies a turning point in his family’s spiritual journey, as they prepare to meet God in worship. The act of removing idols and purifying themselves reflects the importance of holiness and wholehearted devotion to God.

For Christians today, Jacob’s return to Bethel highlights the importance of spiritual renewal and recommitment to God. Bethel symbolizes a place of encountering God and being reminded of His promises. Believers are called to regularly return to the Lord, remove the idols that hinder their walk with Him, and renew their commitment to live in holiness and devotion (James 4:8).

2. Purification from Idols and Holiness:

A key aspect of Jacob’s journey to Bethel is the purification of his household from foreign gods. Jacob commands his family to remove all idols before entering Bethel:

“So they gave Jacob all the foreign gods they had and the rings in their ears, and Jacob buried them under the oak at Shechem” (Genesis 35:4).

The removal and burial of idols symbolize a complete rejection of false gods and a commitment to worship the true and living God. This act of purification emphasizes the necessity of holiness in approaching God. Just as Jacob’s household was called to purify themselves, believers today are called to live lives of holiness and to rid themselves of anything that distracts from full devotion to God.

For Christians, this theme serves as a reminder that God demands complete loyalty and worship. The Bible calls believers to “put to death” the idols and sins that hinder their relationship with God (Colossians 3:5) and to pursue holiness, “without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).

3. Covenant Faithfulness and God’s Protection:

As Jacob and his family journey to Bethel, God protects them from the surrounding nations who might seek revenge for the actions of Simeon and Levi:

“Then they set out, and the terror of God fell on the towns all around them so that no one pursued them” (Genesis 35:5).

God’s protection over Jacob and his family reflects His covenant faithfulness. Despite the recent violence in Shechem, God remains faithful to His promise to be with Jacob and to protect him. This divine protection allows Jacob to fulfill God’s call to return to Bethel and worship.

When Jacob arrives at Bethel, he builds an altar and names the place El Bethel, meaning “God of Bethel.” Here, God reaffirms His covenant with Jacob, reminding him of the promises made to Abraham and Isaac and confirming Jacob’s new identity as Israel:

“God appeared to him again and blessed him. God said to him, ‘Your name is Jacob, but you will no longer be called Jacob; your name will be Israel.’ So he named him Israel” (Genesis 35:9-10).

God’s reaffirmation of the covenant highlights His faithfulness to His promises. Jacob’s new identity as Israel signifies his ongoing role in God’s redemptive plan, and the covenant promises of land, descendants, and blessing are passed on to him.

For believers today, this theme underscores God’s unwavering faithfulness. Just as God protected Jacob and reaffirmed His covenant with him, God remains faithful to His promises to believers in Christ. Christians can trust in God’s protection and covenantal faithfulness as they walk in obedience to His will (Hebrews 13:5).

4. Life’s Joys and Sorrows: Birth and Death:

Genesis 35 also records the death of two key figures—Rachel and Isaac—alongside the birth of Jacob’s youngest son, Benjamin. These events highlight the bittersweet nature of life, where joy and sorrow often coexist.

Rachel dies while giving birth to Benjamin:

“As she breathed her last—for she was dying—she named her son Ben-Oni. But his father named him Benjamin” (Genesis 35:18).

Rachel’s death is a moment of deep sorrow for Jacob, but it is also accompanied by the joy of new life through the birth of Benjamin. The name “Ben-Oni” means “son of my sorrow,” but Jacob renames him Benjamin, meaning “son of my right hand,” symbolizing both loss and hope.

Later in the chapter, Isaac, Jacob’s father, dies at the age of 180:

“Isaac lived a hundred and eighty years. Then he breathed his last and died and was gathered to his people, old and full of years. And his sons Esau and Jacob buried him” (Genesis 35:28-29).

The death of Isaac marks the end of an era and the transition to a new generation. The peaceful burial of Isaac by both Jacob and Esau signifies the healing of their relationship and the continuation of God’s covenant promises through Jacob.

For believers, these events remind us that life is filled with both joys and sorrows, but God is present in both. While Rachel’s death is a time of mourning, the birth of Benjamin represents the continuation of God’s promises. In the same way, God is present with His people in times of both celebration and loss, and His purposes continue to unfold even in the midst of life’s challenges (Romans 8:28).

Verse-by-Verse Analysis:

Genesis 35:1-2:

“Then God said to Jacob, ‘Go up to Bethel and settle there, and build an altar there to God, who appeared to you when you were fleeing from your brother Esau.’ So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, ‘Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you, and purify yourselves and change your clothes.'”

God’s call for Jacob to return to Bethel marks a moment of spiritual renewal, and Jacob’s command for his household to purify themselves reflects the need for holiness before approaching God. This passage emphasizes the importance of removing idols and committing to worship God alone.

Genesis 35:5:

“Then they set out, and the terror of God fell on the towns all around them so that no one pursued them.”

God’s protection over Jacob and his family as they journey to Bethel is a clear demonstration of His faithfulness. Despite the potential threat from surrounding nations, God ensures their safety, allowing Jacob to fulfill His call.

Genesis 35:9-10:

“After Jacob returned from Paddan Aram, God appeared to him again and blessed him. God said to him, ‘Your name is Jacob, but you will no longer be called Jacob; your name will be Israel.’ So he named him Israel.”

God’s reaffirmation of Jacob’s new name, Israel, signifies the continuation of the covenant promises. This moment serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to Jacob and his descendants, and it marks Jacob’s ongoing role in God’s redemptive plan.

Genesis 35:18:

“As she breathed her last—for she was dying—she named her son Ben-Oni. But his father named him Benjamin.”

Rachel’s death in childbirth is a bittersweet moment, as it combines sorrow with the joy of new life. Jacob’s renaming of Benjamin reflects hope and a future despite the loss, as God’s promises continue through the birth of his son.

Genesis 35:28-29:

“Isaac lived a hundred and eighty years. Then he breathed his last and died and was gathered to his people, old and full of years. And his sons Esau and Jacob buried him.”

The death of Isaac marks the passing of one generation and the continuation of the covenant through Jacob. The peaceful burial by both Jacob and Esau reflects reconciliation and the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham’s descendants.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ:

Genesis 35 emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises and His desire for holiness in His people. Jacob’s return to Bethel, the purification of his household, and the reaffirmation of the covenant all point to the need for a continual relationship with God based on worship, holiness, and obedience.

This chapter points forward to Jesus Christ, who fulfills God’s covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Through Christ’s death and resurrection, believers are called to a life of holiness and devotion to God, just as Jacob’s household was purified before meeting God at Bethel. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the promises made to the patriarchs, and through Him, God’s covenant blessings extend to all nations (Galatians 3:14).

Sermon Outline and Flow:

1. Spiritual Renewal and Returning to God (Genesis 35:1-2)
   • Teach about Jacob’s return to Bethel and the spiritual significance of returning to God for renewal and recommitment.
   • Application: Encourage believers to seek regular spiritual renewal by turning to God, ridding themselves of idols, and recommitting to worship and holiness.
2. Purification and Holiness Before God (Genesis 35:2-4)
   • Highlight the importance of Jacob’s command for his household to purify themselves and remove idols before approaching God.
   • Application: Challenge believers to examine their own lives for idols or distractions and to pursue holiness in their relationship with God.
3. God’s Faithfulness and Covenant Promises (Genesis 35:9-10)
   • Teach about God’s reaffirmation of His covenant with Jacob, emphasizing His faithfulness to fulfill His promises.
   • Application: Reassure believers that God is faithful to His promises, and encourage them to trust in His covenantal faithfulness through Christ.
4. Life’s Joys and Sorrows: Birth and Death (Genesis 35:18, 28-29)
   • Explain the juxtaposition of joy and sorrow in the births and deaths recorded in this chapter, highlighting God’s presence in both.
   • Application: Encourage believers to find hope in God’s presence, even in times of loss and hardship, knowing that His purposes continue.

Illustrations and Examples:

• Illustration on Spiritual Renewal: Share a testimony or story of someone who experienced a renewal of their faith after a season of spiritual dryness, paralleling Jacob’s return to Bethel.
• Personal Example on Removing Idols: Reflect on a time when you identified distractions or idols in your life that were hindering your relationship with God, drawing parallels to Jacob’s household purifying themselves before meeting God.
• Illustration on God’s Faithfulness in Life’s Ups and Downs: Use an example of how God’s faithfulness was evident in both joyful and sorrowful seasons of life, highlighting how He remains present and trustworthy through it all.

Application for Today’s Christian:

• Seeking Spiritual Renewal: Genesis 35 reminds believers of the importance of regularly returning to God for spiritual renewal. Just as Jacob returned to Bethel to encounter God afresh, Christians are called to return to God, rid themselves of idols, and renew their commitment to Him.
• Pursuing Holiness and Purity: Jacob’s command to his household to purify themselves before meeting God challenges believers to examine their own lives for idols and distractions. Christians are called to pursue holiness and to remove anything that hinders their walk with God.
• Trusting in God’s Faithfulness: The reaffirmation of God’s covenant with Jacob highlights God’s unchanging faithfulness. Believers can trust that God will fulfill His promises, and they are called to live in the assurance of His covenantal faithfulness through Christ.
• Finding God’s Presence in Both Joy and Sorrow: Genesis 35 shows that God is present in both the joys and sorrows of life. Christians are encouraged to trust that God’s purposes are being fulfilled, even in times of loss and hardship, and to find hope in His presence.

Connection to the Father in Genesis 35:

God the Father’s faithfulness and covenant love are evident throughout Genesis 35. His command for Jacob to return to Bethel and His reaffirmation of the covenant promises reflect His unchanging commitment to His people. The Father’s desire for holiness and worship is also clear in Jacob’s call for his household to purify themselves. This chapter emphasizes the Father’s role as the faithful keeper of His promises and the One who calls His people to live in holiness and devotion.

Connection to Jesus Christ in Genesis 35:

Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant promises made to Jacob. Just as God reaffirmed His covenant with Jacob, Christ fulfills the promises of blessing, land, and descendants through His life, death, and resurrection. Jesus calls His followers to a life of holiness and devotion, just as Jacob’s household was called to purify themselves before meeting God. Through Christ, believers are able to live in covenant relationship with God, experiencing the fullness of His blessings and promises (Galatians 3:29).

Connection to the Holy Spirit in Genesis 35:

The Holy Spirit works in the hearts of believers to bring about spiritual renewal and purification. Just as Jacob’s household was called to purify themselves before meeting God at Bethel, the Holy Spirit convicts believers of sin, empowers them to live holy lives, and leads them into deeper worship and devotion. The Spirit also reassures believers of God’s covenant faithfulness, reminding them of their identity in Christ and guiding them through both the joys and sorrows of life.

Connection to God’s Love:

God’s love is evident in His covenant faithfulness to Jacob and His protection over Jacob’s family as they journey to Bethel. Despite Jacob’s past failures, God remains committed to His promises and reaffirms His covenant with Jacob, demonstrating His enduring love. This chapter reflects the truth that God’s love is not based on human merit but on His sovereign grace. Ultimately, God’s love is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who brings salvation and reconciliation to all who trust in Him.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does Jacob’s return to Bethel challenge you to seek spiritual renewal and recommitment in your own walk with God?
2. What idols or distractions in your life may be hindering your relationship with God, and how can you pursue greater holiness and devotion to Him?
3. How does God’s reaffirmation of His covenant with Jacob encourage you to trust in His faithfulness to fulfill His promises in your life?
4. In what ways can you find God’s presence and purpose in both the joys and sorrows of your life, as seen in the births and deaths recorded in Genesis 35?
5. How does the story of God’s faithfulness to Jacob in Genesis 35 deepen your understanding of God’s covenant love, and how does it point you to the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Jesus Christ?