LESSON OVERVIEW FOR ADULTS
In Genesis 28:10–33:20, we follow Jacob’s journey away from home after deceiving his brother Esau. On his way to Haran, Jacob dreams of a stairway to heaven and hears God’s promise to bless and protect him. This divine moment comes when Jacob is vulnerable and alone, showing that God often meets us when we are hurting or afraid. Even though Jacob made many mistakes, God reassured him of His presence and plan.
Throughout Jacob’s time in Haran (working for Laban, marrying Leah and Rachel, and building his family) he experiences highs and lows. Yet God continues to bless and protect him. When he finally returns home, instead of facing anger, Jacob is welcomed by Esau with love. This lesson shows that God’s comfort is constant, even in the messiest parts of our lives.
OPENING ACTIVITY 6:00–6:15 | Jacob’s Ladder Craft
Items Needed:
- Jacob’s Ladder Craft Handout (Cardstock)
- Crayons
Kids color the handout. Show them how the angels move up and down the ladder. Explain to them in our story that Jacob had a dream.
SONG 6:20–6:30
PRAYER 6:30–6:40
- Sing “Whisper a Prayer”
- Form a prayer circle and invite children to close their eyes and hold hands.
- Suggested Prayer:
“Dear God, thank You for staying with us when we are scared or alone. Just like You were with Jacob, help us feel Your love and know You are always near.”
BIBLE STORY 6:50–7:00
- Question 1: What book of the Bible is this story from? (Genesis)
- Question 2: Is Genesis in the Old or New Testament? (Old Testament)
Story Time
Jacob left his home because his brother was very angry. One night on the journey, Jacob slept with a stone as a pillow. He dreamed of a big ladder reaching up to heaven, and angels were going up and down! God was at the top. He told Jacob, “I will take care of you.”
Later, Jacob met a girl named Rachel and worked for many years to marry her. But Jacob was tricked! He ended up marrying Rachel and her sister Leah. He worked a long time and had many children. God still helped Jacob even when life was hard.
When Jacob returned home, he was scared to see his brother Esau again. But Esau gave him a big hug! Jacob learned that even when we do wrong things, God still loves us and helps us.
Theological Questions:
- Who was watching over Jacob in his dream? (God)
- What did God promise to Jacob? (To protect him and make his family big)
Life Application Questions:
- Have you ever felt scared like Jacob?
- How does it feel to know that God is always with you?
Prayer:
“Dear God, thank You for staying close to me. Help me remember that You are always with me, just like You were with Jacob.”
BIBLE STORY GAME 6:50–7:00 | Ladder Hop
Items Needed
- Masking Tape
Create a ladder on the floor out of masking tape. Have kids take turns “hopping” the rungs of the ladder. When they reach the end of the ladder they should say, “God is with me!”
BIBLE CRAFT 7:00–7:10 | Stone Pillow
Items Needed
- Large Rocks
- Paint Pens
Children decorate rocks. Have “God is with me” written on the rocks as a reminder of Jacob’s dream.
SNACK TIME & COLORING 7:10–7:25
Items Needed:
- Coloring Page
- Crayons
- Snack
Children eat a snack and color a coloring page while discussing the story.
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE | Genesis 28:10–33:20 (KJV)
PARENT TAKE HOME SHEET
Today’s Key Takeaway:
God is with us
What I Learned Today:
- Jacob had a dream from God.
- God promised to take care of Jacob.
- Even when life is hard, God comforts us.
Questions to Ask Me:
Theological:
- Who was at the top of Jacob’s dream ladder? (God)
- What did God promise Jacob? (To protect him and his family)
- What did Jacob name the place where he had the dream? (Bethel)
- Why did Jacob leave his home? (His brother Esau was angry)
- Who gave Jacob a big hug when he came home? (Esau)
Life Application:
- Have you ever had a dream that made you feel safe? (Answers will vary)
- What do you use as a pillow? Would you like to sleep on a rock? (Answers will vary)
- What helps you feel better when you’re scared? (Prayer, hugs, songs)
- Can you forgive someone like Esau forgave Jacob? (Yes)
- Who can you talk to when you feel alone? (God, parents, teacher)