Welcome back to the podcast! After a one week break, Jen, Lauren, and Tassy are back in the studio singing the "Golden Girls" theme song and ignoring their feral kids running around in the background. Today, we are moving past genealogy charts to explore the beautifully woven pattern of the 12 tribes of Israel and how their stories are actually our stories.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Significance of 12: We look at why the number 12 is riddled throughout Scripture, from the 12 loaves of bread in the Tabernacle to the 12 foundations and 12 gates of the New Jerusalem. In biblical patterns, 12 represents God’s covenant people.
• Prophecy vs. Blessing: When Jacob was on his deathbed in Genesis 49, he wasn’t just blessing his sons; he was speaking a prophecy that would play out over thousands of years.
• The Shifting Lists: Have you ever noticed that the list of the 12 tribes changes throughout the Bible? We discuss why Levi didn’t receive land, how Joseph received a "buy-one-get-one-free" double portion through his sons, and why Dan mysteriously disappears from the list in Revelation.
• Meet the Family: We walk through the character traits and legacies of each tribe.
• Modern Day "Dan behavior": We tackle what alternative worship looks like today. It isn't a statue in the yard; it’s when our hobbies, finances, or success consistently come before our time with the Lord.
• The Eternal Gate: We discuss the mind-blowing reality that the names of the 12 tribes are etched over the gates of the New Jerusalem, and we will all one day walk through one of them.

Our Challenge to You

This week, pray about which tribe’s story God is telling through your life right now. Look at the traits, both the gifts and the "shadow sides", to see how God wants to use your unique personality and history for His glory.

Resources & Links

• Scripture to Study: Genesis 49, Joshua 13–19, and Revelation 7 and 21.
• Logos Bible Software: An incredible study tool with AI features to help you dig deeper. Use our link to sign up for Logos. You get a 30 day free trial and $10 off your purchase. If you sign, up we get a credit to our account so we can purchase more resources.

Grab your favorite cool beverage and join us as we remind ourselves that, in the end, it is Jesus over everything, always!