#60: With My Staff I Passed Over This Jordan

The sermon explores the symbolic significance of the shepherd's staff in the life of Jacob, highlighting its spiritual implications for believers. Jacob, unlike his forefathers Abraham and Isaac, is portrayed as the first true shepherd in the family of faith, whose staff represents his responsibility and covenant with God. As he cared for his uncle Laban's sheep, his uncle kept changing his wages and abused him. It was in such times that Jacob discovered God's faithfulness and power through his staff (Genesis 30:38-39).

The sermon emphasizes that Jacob’s acceptance of the shepherd’s role reflects a deeper spiritual commitment to God’s promises and responsibilities. The staff is a metaphor for embracing God’s work and responsibilities, urging believers to identify and care for their own "staffs" or spiritual duties within the church (1 Corinthians 12:28).

Jacob's unwavering faith and responsibility granted him authority and blessings, exemplified when he blessed his grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh while leaning on his staff (Hebrews 11:21). His act of worship and blessing, even in his final moments, demonstrates the enduring power and significance of his shepherd's staff. The sermon draws a parallel to the Christian life, where faithfulness to God's calling ensures strength and authority in spiritual matters, even unto death.

Furthermore, the sermon connects Jacob’s legacy to the Exodus, where each Israelite household held a staff, symbolizing readiness to leave Egypt and enter the Promised Land (Exodus 12:11). This act mirrors Jacob’s crossing of the Jordan and serves as a call for modern believers to be spiritually prepared for their journey to their ultimate home with God.

In conclusion, the staff represents Jesus and a life of faith and responsibility. Believers are encouraged to lean on Jesus, their spiritual staff, throughout their lives, ensuring they finish their spiritual journey with strength and faith, much like Jacob (2 Timothy 4:7-8).