The author of Genesis gives a comprehensive list of Jacob‘s descendantsthat go to Egypt with him. - P72
It is important to note that the list repeatedly ties each descendant back
to Jacob; whether referring to the childrenof his wives and concubines or the children of his sons, the offspringare named as the sons and daughters of Jacob. - P72
Henceforth, this groupof people is called
Israela name that represents the covenant peopleof God. - P72
The New Testament affirms that we, too, are partof this covenant family-not by physical ancestry but by spiritual heritage. - P72
Asbelievers in the Messiah, we have been chosen by God and adoptedinto His family. - P72
We are eternally united with Him through His Spirit who dwells within us. - P72
The total number of Jacob‘s children who settled in Egypt is said to beseventy in all. This is a symbolic number that represents completenessand anticipates that this large family will one day become a great nation.
- P72
At the opposite end of the Bible, we find another symbolic numberused in relation to Israel. The book of Revelation states that 144,000are sealed from each of the tribes of Israel (Rev. 7:4). This numberrepresents the complete number of believers that make up the body ofChrist. - P72
The actual number will be a vast multitude of people that theLord will save on the last day. Until then, let us continue the work ofbringing more people into the household of God.
E - P72
Dear God, You have determined to save a people for Yourself from every tribe,
tongue, and language! Use me and my church community to join You in thework of gathering Your children together in Christ. In His name, amen. - P72
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