Israel in Genesis: The Birth of God's Covenant People

I recently received the beautiful Artza Genesis subscription box, if you're not familiar with Artza you can learn more here. Honestly, I think it's the best way to personally connect with and support artisans and craftsmen in Israel.

Each Artza box has a theme—Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Galilee, Nazareth... and so on. This Genesis box made me want to take a deep dive into the book of Genesis where the story of Israel began and so we are doing that today.

The story of Israel begins long before the nation officially exists. The book of Genesis lays the groundwork for Israel’s identity, tracing its origins from God’s covenant with Abraham to the formation of the twelve tribes. Through these foundational chapters, we see God’s sovereign plan to establish a people set apart for His purposes.

1. God’s Covenant with Abraham: The Birth of a Nation
Israel’s story begins with Abraham, whom God calls out of his homeland to follow Him: “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing” (Genesis 12:1-2). This moment is pivotal because God chooses Abraham to be the father of a great nation—a people who will not only inherit the Promised Land but also be a blessing to all nations.

This covenant is reaffirmed multiple times:

• Genesis 15 – God confirms that Abraham’s descendants will be as numerous as the stars and will inherit the land of Canaan.
• Genesis 17 – Abraham’s name is changed from Abram ("exalted father") to Abraham ("father of many nations"), signifying God’s promise to make him the patriarch of a vast people.
• The covenant is an everlasting one, setting Israel apart as God’s chosen people.

2. The Covenant Passed to Isaac and Jacob
God’s promise does not end with Abraham—it is passed to his son Isaac and then to Jacob, reinforcing Israel’s divine origin.

• Genesis 26:2-5 – God tells Isaac, Abraham’s son, He will continue the covenant through him.
• Genesis 28:13-15 – Jacob, Isaac’s son, encounters God in a dream at Bethel, where God confirms that Jacob’s descendants will inherit the land and be a blessing to all peoples.

Jacob’s story is key because he becomes the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.

3. Jacob Becomes Israel
One of the most significant moments in Genesis is when Jacob wrestles with God and receives a new name: “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed” (Genesis 32:28). The name Israel, meaning "he struggles with God," is prophetic. It represents not only Jacob’s personal journey of faith but also the future nation’s struggles, victories, and dependence on God.

4. The Twelve Tribes of Israel
Jacob’s twelve sons become the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel, which will later form the nation. Before his death, Jacob blesses his sons, prophesying their futures in Genesis 49. These tribes will play key roles in the history of Israel, leading to the Exodus and their eventual settlement in Canaan.

5. Israel in Egypt: A Nation Grows in Captivity
The final chapters of Genesis set the stage for Israel’s enslavement in Egypt, which leads to their dramatic deliverance in Exodus.

• Genesis 46:3-4 – God tells Jacob not to fear going to Egypt, where He will make him into a great nation.
• Genesis 50:24-25 – Joseph, on his deathbed, reminds his brothers that God will bring them back to the Promised Land, keeping His covenant.

This promise foreshadows the Exodus, when God will redeem His people from slavery and lead them to the land He swore to Abraham.

Genesis is not just the beginning of Israel’s history—it is the foundation of their identity as God’s chosen people. Through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, God establishes a covenant that will shape the course of biblical history. The promises of Genesis continue to echo throughout the Bible, pointing to Jesus Christ—the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant. Through Him, all nations are blessed, just as God promised Abraham.

​How does God's faithfulness in His covenant with Israel give you confidence in His promises for your own life today?

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Why I Love Artza

Opening an Artza quarterly subscription box is like unwrapping a piece of the Holy Land right in your home. With every item carefully selected from local artisans across Israel, the experience is both personal and deeply meaningful. And what better way to support them during these difficult times?​

The Genesis Box is a stunning tribute to the foundations of faith, featuring treasures that engage the senses and the soul. From the hand-pressed Genesis Journal filled with scripture and poetry to the resilient Dekarina Chocolate, crafted by artisans in the Golan Heights, each piece carries a powerful story. The Creation Serving Tray and hand-painted candle holders beautifully depict the wonders of God's handiwork, making every moment of use a reflection of faith. The hand-cut paper artwork serves as both a prayer for peace and a reminder of Israel’s breathtaking landscapes. And for the taste buds, the Challah topping, Halva Peanuts, and artisanal chocolate bring the authentic flavors of Israel straight to the table. More than just a box, Artza is a journey—one that connects believers to the land of the Bible while supporting the people who bring its beauty to life. It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving, blessing both the receiver and the hardworking artisans of Israel. 

​Your subscription directly supports small Israeli businesses during these difficult times.

Use code INSTA20 for 20% off your subscription

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