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The Attitude of Esau
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaEsau's worldliness serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing temporary, material desires over eternal promises. Esau, described as a man of the field, loved the things of the world and lived for immediate pleasures. In contrast, Jacob dwelt in tents, symbolizing a focus on an eternal dwelling place, believing in the promise given to Abraham. When Esau, weary from the field, impulsively sold his birthright to Jacob for a mere stew, he despised the important rights, responsibilities, and honors that were his by birth. He considered them unimportant, showing no regret after satisfying his fleshly cravings and carelessly going his way. This attitude of Esau is further highlighted as profane, treating what God considered holy as common. By prioritizing his temporary needs over his rights as the firstborn and his responsibilities as heir to the covenant blessing, Esau forfeited his inheritance. Later, when he sought to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, finding no place for repentance despite his tears. This serves as a warning that we too must beware lest we count as unimportant what God considers sacred and holy, risking the loss of our inheritance by focusing on worldly desires rather than eternal promises.
All About Edom (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe twin sons of Isaac, Esau and Jacob, are a classic model of sibling rivalry, and their contentious relationship has had a tremendous impact on history.
Eating: How Good It Is! (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughBy studying eating in the experiences of those in the Bible, we plumb a deep well of instruction from which we can draw vital lessons to help us through life.
What is Your Bowl of Lentil Stew?
'Ready Answer' by StaffEach of us has the potential to do just as Esau did. What does the story of Esau selling his birthright for a bowl of lentil stew mean to us?
Maintaining Good Health (Part 5)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the Bible, eating can be a symbol of fornication. Like Jacob and Christ, we must learn to curb our appetites, learning to distinguish holy from profane.
What Is Your Lentil Soup?
'Ready Answer' by StaffThe story of Esau and his selling his birthright for a bowl of soup is a cautionary tale for today. What we treasure will ultimately determine our destiny.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 6)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe can do nothing to gain the favor of God before our calling, but we are empowered by God to carry out a particular part of His plan to edify the body.
Hebrews (Part Fifteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWe dare not allow a root of bitterness to spring up in us as a result of trials - those burdens intended by God to strengthen us and perfect us.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 7)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJeremiah compares studying and meditating upon God's Word to physical eating, enabling a person to receive spiritual energy, vitality, and health.
Profanity (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughProfane living is equally, if not more significant, than profane words or speech. W bear the name of God; how we act and behave reflects on God.