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    Jacob Wrestles with God: Sunday School Lesson

    Genesis 32:24–32

    Ages 8–12 ~40 min Memory: Genesis 32:26

    Print this page straight from your browser — the story, memory verse, discussion questions and craft all fit on one sheet.

    Big Idea

    God often blesses us at the very place He breaks our self-confidence.

    Story Summary

    Alone at the brook Jabbok on the night before meeting Esau, Jacob wrestled with a man until the breaking of the day. When Jacob would not let go without a blessing, his thigh was touched and his name was changed to Israel. He walked away limping — and blessed.

    Read the full retelling →

    Memory Verse (KJV)

    “And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.”

    Genesis 32:26

    Discussion Questions

    1. Why was Jacob afraid that night?

      Teacher hint: He was about to meet Esau, the brother he had cheated (Gen 32:6–7).

    2. What did Jacob refuse to do until he was blessed?
    3. What new name was Jacob given, and what did it mean?

      Teacher hint: Israel — 'as a prince hast thou power with God and with men' (Gen 32:28).

    4. Jacob limped for the rest of his life. Why might a limp be a good reminder?

    Craft Idea: Name-Change Banner

    Supplies

    • Strips of paper
    • Markers
    • String
    • Clothes pegs

    Steps

    1. Write 'Jacob' on one side of the strip and 'Israel' on the other.
    2. Decorate each side differently.
    3. Peg the strips onto a string across the room.
    4. Read Genesis 32:26 together as the banner goes up.

    Printable Worksheet

    Print the lesson page for the verse card and the four discussion questions.

    This Sunday's lesson

    Lesson flow (45 minutes)

    1. Welcome (5 min): Pray, then read the memory verse aloud three times together.
    2. Story (10 min): Tell the story summary in your own words; open a KJV to Genesis 32:24–32.
    3. Discussion (10 min): Walk through the questions above. Let every child answer at least once.
    4. Craft (15 min): Make the name-change banner.
    5. Wrap-up (5 min): Hand out the worksheet to finish at home and recite the memory verse one last time.

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    Where to go next

    Teaching Jacob Wrestles with God? Here is what to grab next for your class.