Lesson 10: Birthright Blessings; Marriage in the Covenant

Old Testament Class Member Study Guide, (2001), 7–8

Study the following scriptures:

  1. a.

    Genesis 24. Abraham emphasizes the importance of marriage in the covenant through the selection of a worthy wife for Isaac.

  2. b.

    Genesis 25:20–34. Rebekah receives a revelation concerning her unborn twin sons (25:22–23). When these sons are grown, Esau sells his birthright to Jacob (25:29–34).

  3. c.

    Genesis 26–29. Isaac and his descendants are promised the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant (26:1–5). Esau marries out of the covenant (26:34–35). Isaac blesses Jacob to rule over peoples and nations (27:1–46). Isaac pronounces on Jacob the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant and sends him away to find a worthy wife (28:1–10). Jacob marries Leah and Rachel in the covenant (29:1–30).

  • How might some of us make errors similar to Esau’s, choosing things that bring immediate gratification rather than things that have eternal value?

  • What can we learn about Jacob from his efforts to marry in the covenant? (See Genesis 28:1–5; 29:1–28.)

  • What are some things children and youth can do to prepare to be married in the temple? After two people have been married in the temple, what must they do to ensure they have a truly eternal marriage?