Jacob: Faithful in Adversity

This 1999 series follows the life of Jacob, a man shaped by struggle, discipline, and grace into Israel, the father of a nation. Brother Harry Tennant shows how Jacob’s story—marked by conflict with his brother, the loneliness of exile, and the testing of faith—reveals the ways God works through adversity to form character. Through each stage of his life, Jacob learns that true strength lies not in self-reliance or cunning, but in trusting the God who keeps His promises. These studies invite listeners to see their own trials as part of God’s refining work, leading toward faith, hope, and blessing.

The Supplanter

The series opens with Jacob’s beginnings as the younger twin, grasping at his brother’s heel and later bargaining for the birthright. Brother Tennant explores the divided affections in Isaac’s household and the seeds of rivalry, showing how God’s purpose works even through human weakness and favoritism.

The Refugee

Here Jacob flees from Esau’s anger and sets out alone toward Haran. Brother Tennant highlights the vision at Bethel, where Jacob discovers that though he feels abandoned, the God of Abraham and Isaac is with him. This study reminds us that God’s angels surround us even in the loneliest places, and that His promises stand firm when we feel most vulnerable.

The New Man

In exile, Jacob encounters God afresh in dreams and experiences that begin to change his heart. Brother Tennant shows how Jacob, once known for cunning, is confronted with his true self and called to become a man of faith. This lecture emphasizes that discipleship is about becoming whole, not divided, and that God patiently works to shape our real selves.

The Exile

This lecture considers Jacob’s years of service under Laban. Brother Tennant describes the hardship, injustice, and toil Jacob endured, and how he responded with patience and integrity. Through these trials, Jacob learns endurance and discovers that God’s blessing is not hindered by human exploitation or deceit.

The Deceiver Deceived

Jacob, who once deceived his brother, now finds himself deceived by Laban in the matter of his wives. Brother Tennant draws out the lessons of this reversal, showing how God uses discipline to teach humility and to refine the character of His servants. The study reminds us that God’s justice is both corrective and redemptive.

The End of Jacob’s Troubles

The series closes with Jacob’s return to the land and his reconciliation with Esau. Brother Tennant reflects on the night of wrestling, where Jacob receives a new name—Israel—signifying a transformed identity. The final study reveals how God turns a man of conflict into one who clings to Him in faith, pointing forward to the enduring hope of God’s people.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.