Take Two: Genesis 36, Proverbs 27

Gen 36 contains two toledoths related to Esau and his descendents. The chapter is unique in Genesis in that it gives two of these markes sequentially to the same person (not to mention that he is not in the "line of promise.") One ought to always ask "why" when he comes across such an event.

The first toledoth (Gen 36:1-8) covers Esaus 3 wives and 5 sons...but the focus primarily deals with his land possession. His first two wives were from the Canaanites, whereas the third wife was a cousin from the Ishmaelite line. The "BIG IDEA" in this section is to show that the Edomites (Esau's descendents) VOLUNTARILY left the land of Canaan and took possession of the region of Seir (likely in modern day South Jordan region). Remember, God gave Canaan to Jacob/Israel through Abraham and Isaac. He gave all of Canaan to Israel...and to accentuate the point, this section tells us that Esau/Edom chose to leave the land of Canaan in search of the proverbial "greener pastures" (i.e. more land) in Seir.

It is also important to note that this was an amicable decision and there was a friendly relationship with the Edomites and the Israelites at this time and continuing. NOT SO MUCH today!

The second toledoth focuses on the many descendents and blessing experienced by the Edomites. They became a mighty and powerful people with many tribes, chiefs, and kings. In every way one can measure human blessings, these Edomites were blessed. Esau's descendents (called Edomites) experienced an amicable and peaceful existence and were greatly blessed as a people. The final verse (Gen 36:43) summarizes this concept for us and reminds us of the name change. They are Edomites...a name that served to remind the reader that they descended from Esau who forsook his birthright for a cup of the "red (Edom) stuff" ...a bowl of stew. They lived in the land of their possession, Edom and not Canaan.

Proverbs 27:19 is the takeaway today. Just as water (or a mirror) reflects an accurate image of a person, so the conduct of a man reflects the heart of that man. It is foolish to think that someone who acts in many or most ways as if they could not care about God "truly do" on the inside. I meet moms and dads often who tell me about their children who have not even spoken of God in years. These moms and dads are convinced that "deep down" their son or daughter is "saved." He or she is a Christian...because they were baptized as a child, or recited a prayer one time at a Vacation Bible School.

We would do a greater service to those around us and to the name of Christ to remember that as a person is on the outside, he or she is on the inside. Does this mean that every rebellious act is an indication that a person is separated from God? Certainly not! However...if a person lives a life of continuous rebellion without remorse or repentance, there is no reason to assert that "deep down" the Spirit of God resides within them and they are a child of God. The "man" (in his actions and presentation) reflects the "heart of man" (his condition on the inside.)

Grace,