I
The Approach
vv. 1–3
Jacob sees Esau coming with 400 men. The moment he feared has arrived. vv.1–2 He arranges his family carefully as they move forward. v.3 But this time Jacob goes ahead himself, bowing to the ground seven times as he approaches his brother..
II
The Reunion
v. 4
The tension reaches its peak — will Esau attack? Instead notice there are five actions of grace (v.4) Esau: 1. Ran to Jacob 2. Embraced him 3. Held him close 4. Kissed him 5. Wept with him
III
The Restitution
vv. 5–11
Jacob introduces his family, who bow respectfully. v.8 Esau asks about the gifts. Jacob says they were sent to find favour. vv.9–10 Esau says he already has enough. Jacob replies, “Seeing your face is like seeing the face of God.” **Notice that this mirrors the previous chapter where Jacob sees the face of God. Chapter 32 focuses on Jacob's vertical reconciliation with God, chapter 33 on horizontal reconciliation. When we are made right with God, we are called to also be made right with others. v.11 Jacob urges Esau to accept the gift. What was once taken through deception is now given freely.
IV
The Separation
vv. 12–17
Esau invites Jacob to travel together. vv.13–14 Jacob explains that the children and animals need to move slowly. v.15 Esau offers protection; Jacob politely declines. vv.16–17 They part peacefully. Esau returns home, and Jacob travels on to Succoth.
V
The Arrival
vv. 18–20
Jacob arrives safely at Shechem — whole and unharmed. vv.18–19 He buys land and settles there. v.20 He builds an altar and names it El-Elohe-Israel — “God, the God of Israel.” div>
The Two Chapters, The Two Movements
Reconciliation runs in two directions
Chapter 32
Vertical
Jacob & God
✦
Chapter 33
Horizontal
Jacob & Esau
When we are made right with God,
we are called to also be made right with others.