Epoch 2

How can faith shape an entire nation? How do ordinary lives become extraordinary stories of purpose and promise? In Epoch 2 of Tracing His Story, we journey with the Patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph—whose lives span approximately five centuries (around 2000 BC to 1500 BC). These foundational narratives from Genesis 12–50 not only define the identity of God’s chosen people but also unfold God’s incredible plan to redeem all humanity.

This divine promise given to Abram (later Abraham) in Genesis 12 sets the stage for everything that follows. Abraham’s story begins far from God—in the city of Ur, where pagan worship filled daily life. Yet God called Abram out of darkness, promising to bless him and, through him, bless every nation. Though advanced in age and childless, Abraham trusted God’s improbable promise, exemplifying a faith that would inspire generations.

Abraham’s faith was tested profoundly. Commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac—the child miraculously born when Abraham was 100 years old—he demonstrated absolute trust in God’s goodness and sovereignty. Just as Abraham raised his knife in obedience, God provided a substitute sacrifice, underscoring a powerful truth that would echo throughout Scripture: God Himself provides the ultimate sacrifice.

The narrative continues through Isaac, whose life reinforces the theme of God’s faithfulness amidst human struggle and doubt. Isaac’s own family story unfolds dramatically through his sons, Jacob and Esau. Rivalry, deception, and deep family conflict shape their early lives. Yet even through their human flaws, God’s purposes prevail. Jacob, the younger, deceptively obtains the birthright and blessing meant for Esau, setting off a series of dramatic events that shape Israel’s future.

Jacob’s life is one of transformation. His deceptive nature earns him the name “Jacob”—meaning deceiver. Yet in a pivotal encounter, he wrestles with God Himself and emerges with a new identity: Israel, meaning “he who struggles with God” [Genesis 32:28]. Jacob’s twelve sons would become the patriarchs of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, defining the nation’s identity forever.

Joseph, Jacob’s beloved son from his cherished wife Rachel, endures jealousy from his brothers, betrayal, and slavery in Egypt. Yet remarkably, through each trial, God positions Joseph strategically, eventually elevating him to Egypt’s second-highest position. Joseph’s dramatic rise saves not only Egypt but also his own family from devastating famine, fulfilling God’s promise to protect and preserve His chosen people. Joseph profoundly recognizes God’s sovereign hand when he declares to his brothers:

The patriarchs’ stories reveal an intimate God, deeply involved in human affairs, who consistently turns human failure and hardship toward divine purpose. We witness God choosing imperfect people to fulfill extraordinary promises, underscoring that faith in His promise—not human perfection—is the true source of blessing.

Epoch 2 vividly shows that God’s plan is not thwarted by human weakness. Instead, He masterfully shapes history, turning trials into testimonies of grace. These foundational stories form the backdrop for the entire biblical narrative, highlighting faith, promise, and the unfolding story of redemption ultimately realized in Jesus Christ.

Discover the power of God’s promise and the remarkable lives that shaped history. Watch Epoch 2 now to trace God’s hand through the lives of the Patriarchs and see how their ancient stories remain profoundly relevant for us today.