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Genesis 32:24
Verse
Context
Jacob Wrestles with God
23He took them and sent them across the stream, along with all his possessions. 24So Jacob was left all alone, and there a man wrestled with him until daybreak.25When the man saw that he could not overpower Jacob, he struck the socket of Jacob’s hip and dislocated it as they wrestled.
Sermons
Vance Havner
Duncan Campbell
Alan Redpath
A.W. Tozer
Carter Conlon
Basilea Schlink
Chuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And there wrestled a man with him - This was doubtless the Lord Jesus Christ, who, among the patriarchs, assumed that human form, which in the fullness of time he really took of a woman, and in which he dwelt thirty-three years among men. He is here styled an angel, because he was μεγαλης βουλης Αγγελος, (see the Septuagint, Isa 9:7), the Messenger of the great counsel or design to redeem fallen man from death, and bring him to eternal glory; see Gen 16:7. But it may be asked, Had he here a real human body, or only its form? The latter, doubtless. How then could he wrestle with Jacob? It need not be supposed that this angel must have assumed a human body, or something analogous to it, in order to render himself tangible by Jacob; for as the soul operates on the body by the order of God, so could an angel operate on the body of Jacob during a whole night, and produce in his imagination, by the effect of his power, every requisite idea of corporeity, and in his nerves every sensation of substance, and yet no substantiality be in the case. If angels, in appearing to men, borrow human bodies, as is thought, how can it be supposed that with such gross substances they can disappear in a moment? Certainly they do not take these bodies into the invisible world with them, and the established laws of matter and motion require a gradual disappearing, however swiftly it may be effected. But this is not allowed to be the case, and yet they are reported to vanish instantaneously. Then they must render themselves invisible by a cloud, and this must be of a very dense nature in order to hide a human body. But this very expedient would make their departure still more evident, as the cloud must be more dense and apparent than the body in order to hide it. This does not remove the difficulty. But if they assume a quantity of air or vapor so condensed as to become visible, and modified into the appearance of a human body, they can in a moment dilate and rarefy it, and so disappear; for when the vehicle is rarefied beyond the power of natural vision, as their own substance is invisible they can instantly vanish. From Hos 12:4, we may learn that the wrestling of Jacob, mentioned in this place, was not merely a corporeal exercise, but also a spiritual one; He wept and made supplication unto him. See Clarke on Hos 12:4 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
There wrestled a man with him--This mysterious person is called an angel (Hos 12:4) and God (Gen 32:28, Gen 32:30; Hos 12:5); and the opinion that is most supported is that he was "the angel of the covenant," who, in a visible form, appeared to animate the mind and sympathize with the distress of his pious servant. It has been a subject of much discussion whether the incident described was an actual conflict or a visionary scene. Many think that as the narrative makes no mention in express terms either of sleep, or dream, or vision, it was a real transaction; while others, considering the bodily exhaustion of Jacob, his great mental anxiety, the kind of aid he supplicated, as well as the analogy of former manifestations with which he was favored--such as the ladder--have concluded that it was a vision [CALVIN, HESSENBERG, HENGSTENBERG]. The moral design of it was to revive the sinking spirit of the patriarch and to arm him with confidence in God, while anticipating the dreaded scenes of the morrow. To us it is highly instructive; showing that, to encourage us valiantly to meet the trials to which we are subjected, God allows us to ascribe to the efficacy of our faith and prayers, the victories which His grace alone enables us to make.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jacob was left alone,.... On the other side of Jabbok, his family and cattle having passed over it; and this solitude he chose, in order to spend some time in prayer to God for the safety of him and his: and there wrestled a man with him; not a phantasm or spectre, as Josephus (e) calls him; nor was this a mere visionary representation of a man, to the imagination of Jacob; or done in the vision of prophecy, as Maimonides (f); but it was something real, corporeal, and visible: the Targum of Jonathan says, it was an angel in the likeness of a man, and calls him Michael, which is not amiss, since he is expressly called an angel, Hos 12:4; and if Michael the uncreated angel is meant, it is most true; for not a created angel is designed, but a divine Person, as appears from Jacob's desiring to be blessed by him; and besides, being expressly called God, Gen 32:28; and was, no doubt, the Son of God in an human form; who frequently appeared in it as a token and pledge of his future incarnation: and "this wrestling" was real and corporeal on the part of both; the man took hold of Jacob, and he took hold of the man, and they strove and struggled together for victory as wrestlers do; and on Jacob's part it was also mental and spiritual, and signified his fervent and importunate striving with God in prayer; or at least it was attended with earnest and importunate supplications; see Hos 12:4; and this continued until the breaking of the day: how long this conflict lasted is not certain, perhaps not long; since after Jacob rose in the night he had a great deal of business to do, and did it before this affair happened; as sending his wives, children, servants, and cattle over the brook: however, this may denote, that in the present state or night of darkness, wrestling in prayer with God must be continued until the perfect state commences, when the everlasting day of glory will break. (e) Antiqu. l. 1. c. 20. sect. 2. (f) Morch Nevochim, par. 2. c. 42. p. 310.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here the remarkable story of Jacob's wrestling with the angel and prevailing, which is referred to, Hos 12:4. Very early in the morning, a great while before day, Jacob had helped his wives and his children over the river, and he desired to be private, and was left alone, that he might again more fully spread his cares and fears before God in prayer. Note, We ought to continue instant in prayer, always to pray and not to faint: frequency and importunity in prayer prepare us for mercy. While Jacob was earnest in prayer, stirring up himself to take hold on God, an angel takes hold on him. Some think this was a created angel, the angel of his presence (Isa 63:9), one of those that always behold the face of our Father and attend on the shechinah, or the divine Majesty, which probably Jacob had also in view. Others think it was Michael our prince, the eternal Word, the angel of the covenant, who is indeed the Lord of the angels, who often appeared in a human shape before he assumed the human nature for a perpetuity; whichsoever it was, we are sure God's name was in him, Exo 23:21. Observe, I. How Jacob and this angel engaged, Gen 32:24. It was a single combat, hand to hand; they had neither of them any seconds. Jacob was now full of care and fear about the interview he expected, next day, with his brother, and, to aggravate the trial, God himself seemed to come forth against him as an enemy, to oppose his entrance into the land of promise, and to dispute the pass with him, not suffering him to follow his wives and children whom he had sent before. Note, Strong believers must expect divers temptations, and strong ones. We are told by the prophet (Hos 12:4) how Jacob wrestled: he wept, and made supplication; prayers and tears were his weapons. It was not only a corporal, but a spiritual, wrestling, by the vigorous actings of faith and holy desire; and thus all the spiritual seed of Jacob, that pray in praying, still wrestle with God. II. What was the success of the engagement. 1. Jacob kept his ground; though the struggle continued long, the angel, prevailed not against him (Gen 32:25), that is, this discouragement did not shake his faith, nor silence his prayer. It was not in his own strength that he wrestled, nor by his own strength that he prevailed, but in and by strength derived from Heaven. That of Job illustrates this (Job 23:6), Will he plead against me with his great power? No (had the angel done so, Jacob had been crushed), but he will put strength in me; and by that strength Jacob had power over the angel, Hos 12:4. Note, We cannot prevail with God but in his own strength. It is his Spirit that intercedes in us, and helps our infirmities, Rom 8:26. 2. The angel put out Jacob's thigh, to show him what he could do, and that it was God he was wrestling with, for no man could disjoint his thigh with a touch. Some think that Jacob felt little or no pain from this hurt; it is probable that he did not, for he did not so much as halt till the struggle was over (Gen 32:31), and, if so, this was an evidence of a divine touch indeed, which wounded and healed at the same time. Jacob prevailed, and yet had his thigh put out. Note, Wrestling believers may obtain glorious victories, and yet come off with broken bones; for when they are weak then are they strong, weak in themselves, but strong in Christ, Co2 12:10. Our honours and comforts in this world have their alloys. 3. The angel, by an admirable condescension, mildly requests Jacob to let him go (Gen 32:26), as God said to Moses (Exo 32:10), Let me alone. Could not a mighty angel get clear of Jacob's grapples? He could; but thus he would put an honour on Jacob's faith and prayer, and further try his constancy. The king is held in the galleries (Sol 7:5); I held him (says the spouse) and would not let him go, Sol 3:4. The reason the angel gives why he would be gone is because the day breaks, and therefore he would not any longer detain Jacob, who had business to do, a journey to go, a family to look after, which, especially in this critical juncture, called for his attendance. Note, Every thing is beautiful in its season; even the business of religion, and the comforts of communion with God, must sometimes give way to the necessary affairs of this life: God will have mercy, and not sacrifice. 4. Jacob persists in his holy importunity: I will not let thee go, except thou bless me; whatever becomes of his family and journey, he resolves to make the best he can of this opportunity, and not to lose the advantage of his victory: he does not mean to wrestle all night for nothing, but humbly resolves he will have a blessing, and rather shall all his bones be put out of joint than he will go away without one. The credit of a conquest will do him no good without the comfort of a blessing. In begging this blessing he owns his inferiority, though he seemed to have the upper hand in the struggle; for the less is blessed of the better. Note, Those that would have the blessing of Christ must be in good earnest, and be importunate for it, as those that resolve to have no denial. It is the fervent prayer that is the effectual prayer. 5. The angel puts a perpetual mark of honour upon him, by changing his name (Gen 32:27, Gen 32:28): "Thou art a brave combatant" (says the angel), "a man of heroic resolution; what is thy name?" "Jacob," says he, a supplanter; so Jacob signifies: "Well," says the angel, "be thou never so called any more; henceforth thou shalt be celebrated, not for craft and artful management, but for true valour; thou shalt be called Israel, a prince with God, a name greater than those of the great men of the earth." He is a prince indeed that is a prince with God, and those are truly honourable that are mighty in prayer, Israels, Israelites indeed. Jacob is here knighted in the field, as it were, and has a title of honour given him by him that is the fountain of honour, which will remain, to his praise, to the end of time. Yet this was not all; having power with God, he shall have power with men too. Having prevailed for a blessing from heaven, he shall, no doubt, prevail for Esau's favour. Note, Whatever enemies we have, if we can but make God our friend, we are well off; those that by faith have power on earth as they have occasion for. 6. He dismisses him with a blessing, Gen 32:29. Jacob desired to know the angel's name, that he might, according to his capacity, do him honour, Jdg 13:17. But that request was denied, that he might not be too proud of his conquest, nor think he had the angel at such an advantage as to oblige him to what he pleased. No, "Wherefore dost thou ask after my name? What good will it do thee to know that?" The discovery of that was reserved for his death-bed, upon which he was taught to call him Shiloh. But, instead of telling him his name, he gave him his blessing, which was the thing he wrestled for: He blessed him there, repeated and ratified the blessing formerly given him. Note, Spiritual blessings, which secure our felicity, are better and much more desirable than fine notions which satisfy our curiosity. An interest in the angel's blessing is better than an acquaintance with his name. The tree of life is better than the tree of knowledge. Thus Jacob carried his point; a blessing he wrestled for, and a blessing he had; nor did ever any of his praying seed seek in vain. See how wonderfully God condescends to countenance and crown importunate prayer: those that resolve, though God slay them, yet to trust in him, will, at length, be more than conquerors. 7. Jacob gives a new name to the place; he calls it Peniel, the face of God (Gen 32:30), because there he had seen the appearance of God, and obtained the favour of God. Observe, The name he gives to the place preserves and perpetuates, not the honour of his valour or victory, but only the honour of God's free grace. He does not say, "In this place I wrestled with God, and prevailed;" but, "In this place I saw God face to face, and my life was preserved;" not, "It was my praise that I came off a conqueror, but it was God's mercy that I escaped with my life." Note, It becomes those whom God honours to take shame to themselves, and to admire the condescensions of his grace to them. Thus David did, after God had sent him a gracious message (Sa2 7:18), Who am I, O Lord God? 8. The memorandum Jacob carried of this in his bones: He halted on his thigh (Gen 32:31); some think he continued to do so to his dying-day; and, if he did, he had no reason to complain, for the honour and comfort he obtained by this struggle were abundantly sufficient to countervail the damage, though he went limping to his grave. He had no reason to look upon it as his reproach thus to bear in his body the marks of the Lord Jesus (Gal 6:17); yet it might serve, like Paul's thorn in the flesh, to keep him from being lifted up with the abundance of the revelations. Notice is taken of the sun's rising upon him when he passed over Penuel; for it is sunrise with that soul that has communion with God. The inspired penman mentions a traditional custom which the seed of Jacob had, in remembrance of this, never to eat of that sinew, or muscle, in any beast, by which the hip-bone is fixed in its cup: thus they preserved the memorial of this story, and gave occasion to their children to enquire concerning it; they also did honour to the memory of Jacob. And this use we may still make of it, to acknowledge the mercy of God, and our obligations to Jesus Christ, that we may now keep up our communion with God, in faith, hope, and love, without peril either of life or limb.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
32:24 a man came: The narrative unfolds as the event did for Jacob. No details are given about the assailant, who later refused to identify himself (32:29). • until the dawn: The darkness fit Jacob’s situation and increased the fear and uncertainty that seized him. In the darkness he had no idea who it was—it might have been one of Esau’s men, or Laban’s.
Genesis 32:24
Jacob Wrestles with God
23He took them and sent them across the stream, along with all his possessions. 24So Jacob was left all alone, and there a man wrestled with him until daybreak.25When the man saw that he could not overpower Jacob, he struck the socket of Jacob’s hip and dislocated it as they wrestled.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Desperation
By Vance Havner14K02:59DesperationGEN 32:24MAT 18:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being desperate for God's presence and blessings. He mentions various biblical figures who were desperate and received God's favor, such as Jacob, Moses, Gideon, and David. The preacher contrasts these examples with the rich young ruler who was not desperate and missed out on God's blessing. He reminds the audience that Jesus is present with them now and challenges them to truly believe in his presence. The preacher also criticizes the common phrase "Lord, be with us" and encourages a deeper understanding of God's constant presence.
The Sacrifice That Is Pleasing to God
By Duncan Campbell7.7K57:03SacrificeGEN 32:24EXO 34:6PSA 145:9JER 2:23MAT 7:2MAT 22:372CO 5:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the concept of God's second chance. He highlights that after death, there is no second chance, but in life, God gives us the opportunity to change and transform. The speaker refers to the story of Jacob and how God met him on his journey, symbolizing God's pursuit of us. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and facing one's past mistakes, as it leads to a deeper understanding of God's mercy and forgiveness.
Fullness of Life
By Alan Redpath4.8K46:43Fullness of LifeGEN 32:24JHN 5:14In this sermon, the speaker addresses the audience's personal infirmities and challenges them to be honest with themselves and with God. He uses the story of a man with an infirmity for 30 and 80 years to illustrate the universal struggle that everyone faces. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and acknowledging one's weaknesses before God in order to receive His grace and transformation. He encourages the audience to surrender their burdens to God and trust Him to bring about change and blessings in their lives.
Jacob's Rebirth
By A.W. Tozer3.1K49:54JacobGEN 32:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jacob from the Bible and how it serves as a mirror for us to reflect on our own lives. The speaker emphasizes that God often works through unexpected means to bring about reconciliation and transformation. They share a personal anecdote about a man named Walter who was able to reconcile with his neighbor through God's intervention. The speaker encourages listeners to surrender to God and trust in His goodness, believing that He only desires what is best for us.
The Dreadful Places of Blessing
By Carter Conlon2.5K47:42BlessingGEN 28:10GEN 32:24GEN 32:26JER 31:31MAT 6:33HEB 11:6JAS 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the presence of God and bringing joy to heaven. The sermon also includes a segment on baby dedication, where babies are brought to Jesus for blessing. The preacher then focuses on the story of Jacob in Genesis 32, where Jacob wrestles with God and receives the blessing promised to him. The sermon concludes with the message that God wants to deal with the issues in our hearts so that His blessings can flow through our lives.
A Battle of Faith
By Basilea Schlink2.2K04:35Radio ShowGEN 32:24JHN 8:36ROM 8:37REV 19:16In this sermon, Basilia Schlink discusses the battle of faith and the power of Jesus to set us free from sin and bondage. She emphasizes the need for a persistent and fervent prayer that engages in a struggle of faith, similar to Jacob's battle with the angel. Schlink shares her personal experience of dealing with a difficult person and finding victory through the name and blood of Jesus. She encourages listeners to rely on the power of Jesus' sacrifice and to trust in his ability to break the chains of sin and bring true freedom.
(Through the Bible) Exodus 1-5
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:23:21ExpositionalGEN 50:26EXO 2:15EXO 4:1EXO 4:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is not just a passive observer of our struggles and suffering. He takes action to deliver His people from their hardships. The preacher also highlights the importance of not getting too attached to material possessions, as they can easily be taken away. Instead, our focus should be on the things of the Spirit and God's eternal kingdom. The sermon references the story of Moses and the Israelites in Egypt, where they faced oppression and hardship, but ultimately God delivered them.
My Name Is Jacob
By K.P. Yohannan1.8K25:58WeaknessGEN 32:24GEN 50:23In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a young man who is highly educated and talented but struggles to succeed in his career. He seeks help from an older, wise man but initially rejects his counsel. Eventually, the young man realizes that the problem lies within himself and changes his thinking about who he is. He becomes successful by taking responsibility for his own actions and not blaming others or circumstances. The sermon emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-reflection in achieving success.
Audio Sermon: Are You Jacob or Israel?
By Alan Redpath1.7K40:08GEN 32:24
This sermon focuses on the transformation of Jacob's character by God, highlighting the need for personal encounters with Jesus to bring about genuine change. It emphasizes the importance of confessing one's shortcomings, acknowledging the need for God's intervention, and surrendering to His transformative power. The story of Jacob's wrestling with God serves as a powerful illustration of how God can change a person's identity and character when they come to the end of themselves and seek His blessing.
Blessedness of Brokenness
By Tom Palmer1.5K57:28BrokennessGEN 32:24MAT 6:331PE 3:12In this sermon, the speaker begins by asking the audience to write down five statements that describe their personal relationship with God. The statements range from "All of me, none of thee" to "Some of me, some of thee." The speaker then shares a story about his niece receiving financial assistance for college, highlighting the spirit of brokenness and cooperation with God. He emphasizes the importance of brokenness in responding to Scripture and warns against treating the Bible like a buffet line. The sermon concludes with the speaker expressing gratitude for the youth's response during the announcements and sharing a personal anecdote about cooperation using worms and chickens.
Plans (Compilation)
By Compilations1.1K04:45Pursuing God's PromisesDesperation for GodCompilationGEN 32:24JER 29:11MAT 7:7MAT 11:12LUK 16:16ROM 8:29EPH 4:24PHP 3:20JAS 1:52PE 1:4In the sermon 'Plans (Compilation)', the preacher emphasizes the relentless pursuit required to enter the kingdom of heaven, likening it to the desperate struggle of a starving man. He describes those used by God as 'passionate weak' individuals who, recognizing their own limitations, press into God's promises with fervor and urgency. The preacher urges believers to abandon the desire for a comfortable life and instead seek a deeper relationship with God, wrestling with His promises and embracing their new nature in Christ. He highlights that true joy and fulfillment come from God alone, not from worldly pursuits, and encourages the congregation to embrace God's higher plans for their lives.
The Pathway to True Worship
By Zac Poonen8911:08:55GEN 32:24
This sermon emphasizes the importance of being gripped by the Lord Jesus at a young age, highlighting the need to surrender to God's plan, sacrifice personal desires, and worship in spirit and truth. It encourages young people to trust God's timing, avoid grabbing opportunities, and focus on worshiping God through sacrifice and obedience.
Revival - Urbana 1961
By Festo Kivengere72651:05GEN 32:24
This sermon emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our true selves before God, using the story of Jacob wrestling with God as a powerful illustration. It highlights the need to admit our weaknesses, sins, and struggles, and to bow before God in humility and honesty. The transformation from Jacob to Israel signifies the change that occurs when we surrender our pride and allow God to work in our lives, leading to reconciliation, revival, and a deeper relationship with God.
The Word of Their Testimony
By Stephen Kaung6191:19:52GEN 32:24REV 12:11
This sermon emphasizes the importance of confession and the power of the word of our testimony in overcoming the accuser. It delves into the story of Jacob wrestling with God, highlighting the need to surrender our self-life and allow God to work in us. The sermon also discusses the significance of making Christ the first and the last in our lives, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in conforming us to the image of Christ through the cross.
Through Brokenness to Power With God
By Zac Poonen4791:24:11GEN 32:24ISA 53:10
This sermon emphasizes the importance of being broken before God, drawing parallels from the lives of biblical figures like Jacob, Moses, and Paul. It highlights the need for humility, honesty, and a willingness to be broken by God in order to fulfill His purpose. The speaker stresses the significance of being a humble servant rather than seeking personal recognition or status.
A Smitten Thigh
By Bob Phillips41745:32Christian LifeGEN 32:24GEN 32:28JER 31:10In this sermon, the pastor highlights the danger of the church becoming just another voice in the midst of the many self-help and success-promoting messages in society. He shares an extreme example of a minister using a golf commercial to advertise his church, emphasizing the importance of not compromising the true message of the Gospel for the sake of attracting people. The pastor also discusses the difference between a message that is fun and entertaining versus one that truly challenges and transforms the heart. He emphasizes the need for believers to be willing to undergo the painful process of allowing God's Word to cut them open and bring about genuine change in their lives.
When God Breaks You for Ministry
By Paul Washer41628:05MinistryGEN 32:24JHN 1:29In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a strong faith in God. He references theologian John Calvin, who describes faith as a fervent and passionate response to God's grace. The preacher encourages believers to trust in God completely and not rely on human support or validation. He also discusses the significance of Matthew 7:7, urging listeners to persistently seek God's guidance and promises through prayer. The sermon emphasizes the need for believers to have a desperate and bold approach to their relationship with God, wrestling with Him in prayer and pursuing a deep love for Christ.
Entire Sanctification in Patriarchal Times
By Dougan Clark0GEN 5:24GEN 6:9GEN 12:1GEN 32:24ROM 12:1EPH 5:1HEB 7:11PE 2:9Dougan Clark delves into the progressive revelation of God's plan for holiness throughout the early patriarchal times, highlighting key figures like Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Jacob who walked with God and pleased Him. The sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God, experiencing conversion, and seeking a deeper work of sanctification, drawing parallels between the Old Testament patriarchs and the New Testament teachings on holiness. The narrative explores the significance of Melchizedek as a type of Christ in his priestly and kingly roles, shedding light on the eternal priesthood of Jesus and the priesthood of all believers through union with Him.
Touching Heaven "Alone"
By K.P. Yohannan0Spiritual WarfarePrayerGEN 32:242CH 7:14MAT 6:6LUK 18:1ROM 8:26EPH 6:12PHP 4:61TH 5:171TI 2:1JAS 5:16K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the necessity of spending time alone with God through prayer to truly understand and follow Christ. He illustrates that personal encounters with God lead to self-reflection and spiritual cleansing, contrasting this with the distractions of church activities that can mislead us. Yohannan highlights God's desire for individuals to intercede for the unreached, stressing that prayer is a powerful weapon against darkness and essential for spiritual warfare. He encourages believers to develop a habit of prayer, as it is accessible to everyone and can lead to significant change in the world. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to prayer as the most effective means of touching heaven and impacting lives.
Esau, Jacob or Israel?
By Richard E. Bieber0GEN 32:24MAT 7:7LUK 11:9LUK 18:1JHN 2:3REV 22:20Richard E. Bieber preaches about the journey of spiritual growth, highlighting the need to discipline our enthusiasm into steady zeal, walk through trials with songs of praise, and present ourselves as living sacrifices daily. He emphasizes the importance of choosing between the paths of Esau, who seeks self-indulgence without sacrifice, and Jacob, who strives to get ahead through manipulation. The sermon encourages listeners to become like Israel, who wrestled with God and emerged as a godly, God-pleasing individual. By striving with God in prayer and seeking His will above all else, believers can experience transformation and blessings in their lives.
Alexander Moody Stuart
By David Smithers0GEN 32:24LUK 18:1PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:16David Smithers preaches on the transformative power of prayer and the intimate relationship with God that can be cultivated through fervent, agonizing prayer, drawing inspiration from the prayer life of Alexander Moody Stuart. Stuart's deep communion with God through prayer led to a profound impact on his congregation, emphasizing the importance of prayer meetings and stirring up a passion for revival. Stuart's life exemplified a fervent passion for Jesus, spending hours in prayer, laboring for the lost, and seeking the tangible presence of Christ with unwavering devotion.
A Straitened Place, Which Revealeth the Face of God
By Smith Wigglesworth0Wrestling with GodSurrendering to God's WillGEN 32:24GEN 32:28ISA 55:8Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the transformative power of being alone with God, as exemplified by Jacob's wrestling match with the divine. He illustrates how Jacob's struggles and eventual surrender led to a profound revelation of God's presence and purpose in his life. The sermon highlights the necessity of letting go of our own plans to embrace God's higher ways, which often require us to confront our weaknesses and seek His blessing earnestly. Wigglesworth encourages believers to recognize that true victory and transformation come from a deep, sincere relationship with God, where we hold onto Him in faith and humility. Ultimately, he reminds us that God's plans for us are far greater than our own, leading to peace and reconciliation in our lives.
God, Where Are You?
By David Wilkerson0God's Presence in TrialsFaithfulness in AfflictionGEN 32:24David Wilkerson addresses the struggles of feeling abandoned by God during difficult times, using Jacob's wrestling with the Lord as a poignant example. He emphasizes that even the most faithful and contrite believers can face trials and sorrows, questioning God's presence and promises. Wilkerson reminds us that God does not guarantee a life free from afflictions, but rather assures us of His deliverance through them. He highlights that both Jacob and Paul experienced significant hardships, yet God was with them, ultimately bringing them through their struggles. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness, even when circumstances seem dire.
Dare to Be Alone
By Charles E. Cowman0GEN 32:24ISA 63:3DAN 10:7JHN 16:32REV 1:9Charles E. Cowman preaches about the necessity of embracing a lonely life in order to soar to higher spiritual levels and experience Divine fellowship. Just like the eagle, believers must be willing to walk alone with God, allowing Him to isolate them for the development of an independent faith and life. This isolating experience leads to a deeper connection with God and a realization of the work He has done within us.
The Blessing of Brokenness
By Adrian Rogers0GEN 32:24PSA 51:172CO 12:9HEB 11:21JAS 4:10Adrian Rogers preaches about Jacob's wrestling match with God, highlighting how God brought Jacob to a place of utter brokenness and dependence, where he finally surrendered and received God's blessing. Through this encounter, Jacob's name was changed to Israel, signifying his transformation from a deceiver to a prince of God. God wanted to bless Jacob, not hurt him, and He broke him so He could ultimately bless him. This story teaches us the importance of being broken before God can truly bless and use us.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And there wrestled a man with him - This was doubtless the Lord Jesus Christ, who, among the patriarchs, assumed that human form, which in the fullness of time he really took of a woman, and in which he dwelt thirty-three years among men. He is here styled an angel, because he was μεγαλης βουλης Αγγελος, (see the Septuagint, Isa 9:7), the Messenger of the great counsel or design to redeem fallen man from death, and bring him to eternal glory; see Gen 16:7. But it may be asked, Had he here a real human body, or only its form? The latter, doubtless. How then could he wrestle with Jacob? It need not be supposed that this angel must have assumed a human body, or something analogous to it, in order to render himself tangible by Jacob; for as the soul operates on the body by the order of God, so could an angel operate on the body of Jacob during a whole night, and produce in his imagination, by the effect of his power, every requisite idea of corporeity, and in his nerves every sensation of substance, and yet no substantiality be in the case. If angels, in appearing to men, borrow human bodies, as is thought, how can it be supposed that with such gross substances they can disappear in a moment? Certainly they do not take these bodies into the invisible world with them, and the established laws of matter and motion require a gradual disappearing, however swiftly it may be effected. But this is not allowed to be the case, and yet they are reported to vanish instantaneously. Then they must render themselves invisible by a cloud, and this must be of a very dense nature in order to hide a human body. But this very expedient would make their departure still more evident, as the cloud must be more dense and apparent than the body in order to hide it. This does not remove the difficulty. But if they assume a quantity of air or vapor so condensed as to become visible, and modified into the appearance of a human body, they can in a moment dilate and rarefy it, and so disappear; for when the vehicle is rarefied beyond the power of natural vision, as their own substance is invisible they can instantly vanish. From Hos 12:4, we may learn that the wrestling of Jacob, mentioned in this place, was not merely a corporeal exercise, but also a spiritual one; He wept and made supplication unto him. See Clarke on Hos 12:4 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
There wrestled a man with him--This mysterious person is called an angel (Hos 12:4) and God (Gen 32:28, Gen 32:30; Hos 12:5); and the opinion that is most supported is that he was "the angel of the covenant," who, in a visible form, appeared to animate the mind and sympathize with the distress of his pious servant. It has been a subject of much discussion whether the incident described was an actual conflict or a visionary scene. Many think that as the narrative makes no mention in express terms either of sleep, or dream, or vision, it was a real transaction; while others, considering the bodily exhaustion of Jacob, his great mental anxiety, the kind of aid he supplicated, as well as the analogy of former manifestations with which he was favored--such as the ladder--have concluded that it was a vision [CALVIN, HESSENBERG, HENGSTENBERG]. The moral design of it was to revive the sinking spirit of the patriarch and to arm him with confidence in God, while anticipating the dreaded scenes of the morrow. To us it is highly instructive; showing that, to encourage us valiantly to meet the trials to which we are subjected, God allows us to ascribe to the efficacy of our faith and prayers, the victories which His grace alone enables us to make.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jacob was left alone,.... On the other side of Jabbok, his family and cattle having passed over it; and this solitude he chose, in order to spend some time in prayer to God for the safety of him and his: and there wrestled a man with him; not a phantasm or spectre, as Josephus (e) calls him; nor was this a mere visionary representation of a man, to the imagination of Jacob; or done in the vision of prophecy, as Maimonides (f); but it was something real, corporeal, and visible: the Targum of Jonathan says, it was an angel in the likeness of a man, and calls him Michael, which is not amiss, since he is expressly called an angel, Hos 12:4; and if Michael the uncreated angel is meant, it is most true; for not a created angel is designed, but a divine Person, as appears from Jacob's desiring to be blessed by him; and besides, being expressly called God, Gen 32:28; and was, no doubt, the Son of God in an human form; who frequently appeared in it as a token and pledge of his future incarnation: and "this wrestling" was real and corporeal on the part of both; the man took hold of Jacob, and he took hold of the man, and they strove and struggled together for victory as wrestlers do; and on Jacob's part it was also mental and spiritual, and signified his fervent and importunate striving with God in prayer; or at least it was attended with earnest and importunate supplications; see Hos 12:4; and this continued until the breaking of the day: how long this conflict lasted is not certain, perhaps not long; since after Jacob rose in the night he had a great deal of business to do, and did it before this affair happened; as sending his wives, children, servants, and cattle over the brook: however, this may denote, that in the present state or night of darkness, wrestling in prayer with God must be continued until the perfect state commences, when the everlasting day of glory will break. (e) Antiqu. l. 1. c. 20. sect. 2. (f) Morch Nevochim, par. 2. c. 42. p. 310.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here the remarkable story of Jacob's wrestling with the angel and prevailing, which is referred to, Hos 12:4. Very early in the morning, a great while before day, Jacob had helped his wives and his children over the river, and he desired to be private, and was left alone, that he might again more fully spread his cares and fears before God in prayer. Note, We ought to continue instant in prayer, always to pray and not to faint: frequency and importunity in prayer prepare us for mercy. While Jacob was earnest in prayer, stirring up himself to take hold on God, an angel takes hold on him. Some think this was a created angel, the angel of his presence (Isa 63:9), one of those that always behold the face of our Father and attend on the shechinah, or the divine Majesty, which probably Jacob had also in view. Others think it was Michael our prince, the eternal Word, the angel of the covenant, who is indeed the Lord of the angels, who often appeared in a human shape before he assumed the human nature for a perpetuity; whichsoever it was, we are sure God's name was in him, Exo 23:21. Observe, I. How Jacob and this angel engaged, Gen 32:24. It was a single combat, hand to hand; they had neither of them any seconds. Jacob was now full of care and fear about the interview he expected, next day, with his brother, and, to aggravate the trial, God himself seemed to come forth against him as an enemy, to oppose his entrance into the land of promise, and to dispute the pass with him, not suffering him to follow his wives and children whom he had sent before. Note, Strong believers must expect divers temptations, and strong ones. We are told by the prophet (Hos 12:4) how Jacob wrestled: he wept, and made supplication; prayers and tears were his weapons. It was not only a corporal, but a spiritual, wrestling, by the vigorous actings of faith and holy desire; and thus all the spiritual seed of Jacob, that pray in praying, still wrestle with God. II. What was the success of the engagement. 1. Jacob kept his ground; though the struggle continued long, the angel, prevailed not against him (Gen 32:25), that is, this discouragement did not shake his faith, nor silence his prayer. It was not in his own strength that he wrestled, nor by his own strength that he prevailed, but in and by strength derived from Heaven. That of Job illustrates this (Job 23:6), Will he plead against me with his great power? No (had the angel done so, Jacob had been crushed), but he will put strength in me; and by that strength Jacob had power over the angel, Hos 12:4. Note, We cannot prevail with God but in his own strength. It is his Spirit that intercedes in us, and helps our infirmities, Rom 8:26. 2. The angel put out Jacob's thigh, to show him what he could do, and that it was God he was wrestling with, for no man could disjoint his thigh with a touch. Some think that Jacob felt little or no pain from this hurt; it is probable that he did not, for he did not so much as halt till the struggle was over (Gen 32:31), and, if so, this was an evidence of a divine touch indeed, which wounded and healed at the same time. Jacob prevailed, and yet had his thigh put out. Note, Wrestling believers may obtain glorious victories, and yet come off with broken bones; for when they are weak then are they strong, weak in themselves, but strong in Christ, Co2 12:10. Our honours and comforts in this world have their alloys. 3. The angel, by an admirable condescension, mildly requests Jacob to let him go (Gen 32:26), as God said to Moses (Exo 32:10), Let me alone. Could not a mighty angel get clear of Jacob's grapples? He could; but thus he would put an honour on Jacob's faith and prayer, and further try his constancy. The king is held in the galleries (Sol 7:5); I held him (says the spouse) and would not let him go, Sol 3:4. The reason the angel gives why he would be gone is because the day breaks, and therefore he would not any longer detain Jacob, who had business to do, a journey to go, a family to look after, which, especially in this critical juncture, called for his attendance. Note, Every thing is beautiful in its season; even the business of religion, and the comforts of communion with God, must sometimes give way to the necessary affairs of this life: God will have mercy, and not sacrifice. 4. Jacob persists in his holy importunity: I will not let thee go, except thou bless me; whatever becomes of his family and journey, he resolves to make the best he can of this opportunity, and not to lose the advantage of his victory: he does not mean to wrestle all night for nothing, but humbly resolves he will have a blessing, and rather shall all his bones be put out of joint than he will go away without one. The credit of a conquest will do him no good without the comfort of a blessing. In begging this blessing he owns his inferiority, though he seemed to have the upper hand in the struggle; for the less is blessed of the better. Note, Those that would have the blessing of Christ must be in good earnest, and be importunate for it, as those that resolve to have no denial. It is the fervent prayer that is the effectual prayer. 5. The angel puts a perpetual mark of honour upon him, by changing his name (Gen 32:27, Gen 32:28): "Thou art a brave combatant" (says the angel), "a man of heroic resolution; what is thy name?" "Jacob," says he, a supplanter; so Jacob signifies: "Well," says the angel, "be thou never so called any more; henceforth thou shalt be celebrated, not for craft and artful management, but for true valour; thou shalt be called Israel, a prince with God, a name greater than those of the great men of the earth." He is a prince indeed that is a prince with God, and those are truly honourable that are mighty in prayer, Israels, Israelites indeed. Jacob is here knighted in the field, as it were, and has a title of honour given him by him that is the fountain of honour, which will remain, to his praise, to the end of time. Yet this was not all; having power with God, he shall have power with men too. Having prevailed for a blessing from heaven, he shall, no doubt, prevail for Esau's favour. Note, Whatever enemies we have, if we can but make God our friend, we are well off; those that by faith have power on earth as they have occasion for. 6. He dismisses him with a blessing, Gen 32:29. Jacob desired to know the angel's name, that he might, according to his capacity, do him honour, Jdg 13:17. But that request was denied, that he might not be too proud of his conquest, nor think he had the angel at such an advantage as to oblige him to what he pleased. No, "Wherefore dost thou ask after my name? What good will it do thee to know that?" The discovery of that was reserved for his death-bed, upon which he was taught to call him Shiloh. But, instead of telling him his name, he gave him his blessing, which was the thing he wrestled for: He blessed him there, repeated and ratified the blessing formerly given him. Note, Spiritual blessings, which secure our felicity, are better and much more desirable than fine notions which satisfy our curiosity. An interest in the angel's blessing is better than an acquaintance with his name. The tree of life is better than the tree of knowledge. Thus Jacob carried his point; a blessing he wrestled for, and a blessing he had; nor did ever any of his praying seed seek in vain. See how wonderfully God condescends to countenance and crown importunate prayer: those that resolve, though God slay them, yet to trust in him, will, at length, be more than conquerors. 7. Jacob gives a new name to the place; he calls it Peniel, the face of God (Gen 32:30), because there he had seen the appearance of God, and obtained the favour of God. Observe, The name he gives to the place preserves and perpetuates, not the honour of his valour or victory, but only the honour of God's free grace. He does not say, "In this place I wrestled with God, and prevailed;" but, "In this place I saw God face to face, and my life was preserved;" not, "It was my praise that I came off a conqueror, but it was God's mercy that I escaped with my life." Note, It becomes those whom God honours to take shame to themselves, and to admire the condescensions of his grace to them. Thus David did, after God had sent him a gracious message (Sa2 7:18), Who am I, O Lord God? 8. The memorandum Jacob carried of this in his bones: He halted on his thigh (Gen 32:31); some think he continued to do so to his dying-day; and, if he did, he had no reason to complain, for the honour and comfort he obtained by this struggle were abundantly sufficient to countervail the damage, though he went limping to his grave. He had no reason to look upon it as his reproach thus to bear in his body the marks of the Lord Jesus (Gal 6:17); yet it might serve, like Paul's thorn in the flesh, to keep him from being lifted up with the abundance of the revelations. Notice is taken of the sun's rising upon him when he passed over Penuel; for it is sunrise with that soul that has communion with God. The inspired penman mentions a traditional custom which the seed of Jacob had, in remembrance of this, never to eat of that sinew, or muscle, in any beast, by which the hip-bone is fixed in its cup: thus they preserved the memorial of this story, and gave occasion to their children to enquire concerning it; they also did honour to the memory of Jacob. And this use we may still make of it, to acknowledge the mercy of God, and our obligations to Jesus Christ, that we may now keep up our communion with God, in faith, hope, and love, without peril either of life or limb.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
32:24 a man came: The narrative unfolds as the event did for Jacob. No details are given about the assailant, who later refused to identify himself (32:29). • until the dawn: The darkness fit Jacob’s situation and increased the fear and uncertainty that seized him. In the darkness he had no idea who it was—it might have been one of Esau’s men, or Laban’s.