Genesis 12 to 33: The Father of Israel

by John F. MacArthur Jr.

Abraham is known as the "father of Israel" because God appeared to him and promised that his descendants would become a great nation. Yet Abraham is much more than the patriarch of a select group of ancient people. Through Abraham's descendants, God's own Son, Jesus, was born. It's through Abraham that God blessed all people.

In this study, pastor John MacArthur will guide you through an in-depth look at the historical period beginning with Abraham's call from God, continuing through his relocation in the land of Canaan, and concluding with the story of his grandsons Jacob and Esau.

This study includes close-up examinations of Sarah, Hagar, Ishmael, and Isaac, as well as careful considerations of doctrinal themes such as "Covenant and Obedience" and "Wrestling with God."

—ABOUT THE SERIES—

The MacArthur Bible Study series is designed to help you study the Word of God with guidance from widely respected pastor and author John MacArthur. Each guide provides intriguing examinations of the whole of Scripture by examining its parts and

Extensive, but straight-forward commentary on the text.Detailed observations on overriding themes, timelines, history, and context.Word and phrase studies to help you unlock the broader meaning and apply it to your life.Probing, interactive questions with plenty of space to write down your response and thoughts.

Genres: Christian

162 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 18, 2015

About the author

John F. MacArthur, Jr. was a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur was a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California beginning in 1969, as well as President of The Master’s College (and the related Master’s Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.

Reviews

[Hudson Christmas · Rating 2 out of 5]

Similar to the Genesis commentary over Genesis 1-11 by MacArthur, this book is an alright read for those looking to go deeper into the text of Genesis. While portions of this book and the questions involved were well crafted and theologically helpful, many of this book was very basic and often seemed to stray from the main point of the passage. One of my biggest issues was that many important passages in this section of Genesis were completely skipped over (Melchizedek, the servant finding Rachel, and a a few others). Not a commentary I would recommend.

[Uncle Gonzo · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was disappointed with this book. It was very basic, which was not what I was expecting from MacArthur. Actually it felt like someone else wrote it for him and he just put his name on it. But that’s okay because we’re all at different levels in our study of God’s word. What disappointed me the most was that it omits lots of content and even some chapters of Genesis from the study.

[Kathryn Gritts · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good study on the last part of Genesis. I learned a lot. I did not agree with all of MacArthur's interpretation of the Scriptures but it gave me a lot to think about and I was able to relate to the patriarchs in a way I haven't in the past.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very thoughtful read

I am so thankful I choose to read this study guide. It added some much depth to my read through this year, 2026. I will continue to use the next guide to complete Genesis.

[F. Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love these study books. John McArthur's seem to be the best.

[Jennifer Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the John MacArthur Bible Studies. They make it easy to truly understand the scripture.

[Mikayla Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Left me with a better clear image of God's character during the book of Genesis.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't prefer the fill-in-the-blank pages, but other than that, it is a wonderful book with lots of truth to absorb.

[Douglas Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the second part of the book of Genesis, John Maccarthur breaks down how it is easy to listen and pray to God and not go against Him.