Apr 24, 2011

We conclude our study in Genesis with a section of Scripture that in many ways summarizes a number of the main themes found in this first book of the Bible. We review the wonder of Creation, the horror of the Fall, and the promises of the Covenant. As we begin, we again see the faithlessness of Joseph’s brothers. They cannot believe that Joseph will be...

Apr 17, 2011

At the end of Genesis 49 we find the last words of Jacob. And then, into chapter 50 to verse 14, we see how Jacob’s sons honored his dying command – to be buried in faith. We can learn much about death from this section of Scripture: how to prepare for death emotionally, materially, and spiritually. We see how we are to mourn. And we also see that,...

Apr 10, 2011

Genesis 49:1-28 gives us the last words of the patriarch Jacob, words of encouragement and words of challenge, to his twelve sons. There is much to learn here, we see the consequences of sin and also the blessings of faithfulness. Within the lives of Jacob’s sons, we see instability, anger, slothfulness, legalism, and discontent. And yer we also see the...

Apr 3, 2011

Genesis 48 finds Jacob at the close of his life, literally on his death bed. This text calls us to consider our own demise, for there is indeed a day appointed for each of us to leave this world. What will be on your mind as you prepare to die? And, more importantly, what is on your mind now as you dwell in the land of the living? Are you seeking, right now, to...

Mar 20, 2011

In the closing potion of Genesis 47, we see the impact of disaster on the people of the land, both the ungodly and the godly, and we are challenged to consider our response to disaster as well. In this text we are reminded that the Lord is indeed sovereign, He superintends all the events we witness for His glory. And while we see that prudent planning can help...

Mar 13, 2011

Genesis 46:1-47:12 presents the story of Jacob moving from Canaan to Egypt. Egypt was a very pagan land, one that may have brought great fear to the aged Patriarch. But here, we see God come and bring comfort to His servant, and also, we find principles to help us live for Jesus in a pagan land. It starts with worship and prayer. We need to be strengthened to...

Mar 6, 2011

Genesis 45:16-28 presents the amazing story of Pharaoh’s goodness to Joseph’s brothers. His goodness is seen in his promises and his provision. They are also given an important purpose. And they enter into it with the power they have received in their new relationship with Joseph. The application for us is to see the goodness of our God, how He gives...

Feb 20, 2011

In Genesis 45:1-15, we find Joseph facing a group of men who had brought him much pain. They had hurt him both physically and emotionally. They had forced him to be separated from those he loved for over two decades. And they stand before him. Joseph has it within his power to punish them severely for all they have done. But what does he do? Remarkably, Joseph...

Feb 13, 2011

Genesis 44:18-34 gives us a glimpse into what real Christian community is supposed to look like. As Judah pleads for the life of his brother Benjamin, a brother he probably doesn’t like very much, we find elements of how we, who are called to live in one accord, can really make it happen. It starts with prayer. And then there is humility, unconditional...

Feb 6, 2011

Genesis 43:15-44:17 documents the return of Jacob’s sons to Egypt to purchase grain. They are bringing Benjamin along on this return trip, as well as money for the purchase and a gift for the stern prime minister of Egypt. How will they be received? The prime minister had been so stern before. How will he respond to these men this time? They are full of...