Shadowboxing: Jacob and Jekyll: Navigating Identity and Fear

Shadowboxing: Unmasking the Monsters Within In this episode of the sermon series 'Shadowboxing: Confronting the Monsters Within,' we explore the concept of the 'false self' and the inner 'monster' through personal anecdotes and literary references like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. By delving into the Bible story of Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Esau from Genesis 27:1-20, we uncover the masks we wear to navigate life's challenges and seek acceptance. Insights from Christian psychologist David Benner and the Enneagram help us differentiate the false self from our true God-given identity. The sermon concludes with reflections on autumn's symbolism of letting go, inspired by Lucille Clifton's poem, 'The Lesson of the Falling Leaves.' 00:00 A Memorable Mistake in London 03:06 Facing Fears and Cultural Monsters 06:43 Exploring the Monster Within 07:29 The Tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde 11:09 The False Self and Genesis 27 15:54 Setting the Stage: Isaac's Prayer and Rebecca's Revelation 16:20 Jacob and Esau: The Struggle Begins 17:12 The Shrewdness of Rebecca and Jacob 18:43 The Deception Unfolds: Jacob's Mask 20:12 The Consequences of Deception 20:45 Reflecting on Identity and the False Self 21:56 Understanding the False Self in Christian Context 22:46 Personal Journey: Confronting the False Self 23:34 The Enneagram and Self-Discovery 25:34 Jacob's Transformation: From Supplanter to Israel 27:00 The Struggle of Marginalized Identities 28:11 The Spiritual Journey: Losing the Self to Find the Self 28:55 Confronting Our Fears: The Lesson of the Falling Leaves