Lesson_63_Return_to_Bethel

After the horrifying massacre at Shechem, Jacob is terrified that the surrounding Canaanite tribes will wipe out

his family. In this moment of total crisis, God commands Jacob to return to Bethel-the exact place where God

first met him when he was running away from Esau decades earlier. But before they can go, Jacob orders his

family to do a massive 'spiritual house cleaning.' They must get rid of all foreign gods (including the idols

Rachel stole), purify themselves, and change their clothes. Jacob takes the idols and buries them permanently

under an oak tree. Today, we will explore the power of a fresh start, the physical act of 'cleaning house,' and

the danger of modern idolatry.