For the week of June 10, 2012

The text – Genesis 37-50, “God’s sovereign goodness through slavery to salvation.”

Summary of the text

The main point of this true story in Genesis 37-50 is God’s sovereign (think control over everything) goodness through the enslavement of Joseph for the purpose of salvation. Notice what we learn about God. God is sovereign over everything.God reveals Himself in Genesis 37-50 to be utterly in control of the natural world (weather that caused both plenty and famine), human history (orchestrating the preservation of the line of Abraham through history), nations (Canaan and Egypt), family relationships (using petty family jealousy to get Joseph to Egypt), destinies of people, decisions of people, dreams, sin, and salvation.

We also see the unmistakable goodness of God. Everything that occurs in these chapters flies under the banner of 50:20, “God meant it for good.” What good does the great goodness of God bring about? The goodness of God brings about salvation, “…to bring it about that many people should be kept alive.”God’s purposes in everything is the good and salvation of His people (see Romans 8:28).

But we cannot forget that God reveals Himself as the sovereign and good God through the life of Joseph. Joseph was sold into slavery by His brothers, falsely accused and imprisoned, abandoned by a man who promised to help him, and finally exalted to the position of Prime Minister of Egypt where he saved the world from starving. Do you see Jesus in this story? Jesus left His heavenly home and became a slave. Jesus was falsely accused and betrayed by friends. And Jesus, through the suffering of the cross, was resurrected and exalted to the right hand of God where He has and is and will save some from every ethnicity of the world.

Questions to begin discussion

  • What most intrigues you from the story of Joseph?

Setting the stage

  • Who is the author of these chapters? To whom is the author writing? What need is the author of the true story of Joseph seeking to address in the life of God’s people? What is the main point or theme?
  • What is the setting of Genesis 37-50? Who are the main characters? What is the main conflict? What is the resolution?
  • What does Genesis 37-50 reveal about God? About God’s purposes in the world? About God’s plan of redemption?
  • Think about how Genesis 37-50 fits within the entire Bible story. What part does this passage play in the context of the entire Bible? What is the mission God is on? How will God bless all nations?
  • What does this passage mean in the light of Christ? How does Genesis 37-50 proclaim the good news of Jesus? What links do we see to Jesus?
  • What from the sermon surprised you about the story of Genesis 37-50? What was something new you learned? Something you were reminded of? Something you have a question about?

Application

  • Joseph’s life is one of remarkable holiness. What areas of your life do you see a need to repent of because of Joseph’s life? What is your plan to address and defeat your sin?
  • Joseph’s life is also one of enduring trust in God through difficult suffering. What truths sustained Joseph (see Genesis 45:5, 7-8; 50:20)? What questions do you have about these truths? What do these truths teach you about God that can help sustain you during difficult seasons of life? How can these truths guide your care of people in your group as they suffer?
  • In what ways does Joseph’s life help you see Christ? How do these glimpses of Christ intersect with your life? How can you apply the Gospel of Genesis 37-50 to your life and heart?