Sunday Ministry Recap (July 1)

Scripture Focus:

Genesis 37 - Joeseph Sold Into Slavery


Key Thoughts Shared by Various Brothers:

Approximately one-fourth of the book of Genesis is devoted to the story of Joseph. Joseph stands as a type (picture) of the Lord Jesus Christ in many ways. (1) Both were special objects of a father's love. (2) Both were hated by their brethren. (3) The claims of both were rejected by their brethren. (4) The brethren of both conspired to slay them. (4) Both were raised up by God, became a blessing among the Gentiles, and gained a Gentile bride. (5) As Joseph reconciled his brethren to himself and afterward exalted them, so will it be with Christ and His Jewish brethren.

The sending of Joseph by his father to find his brothers reminds of the Father sending His beloved Son for our redemption. Christ came from "Hebron" ("fellowship") to "Shechem" (lit., "shoulder" ... the place of burden bearing). What an awful burden he put his shoulder to on the cross!

Joseph responded to the cruelty and mistreatmentg of his brothers, not with hatred and resentment, but by acknowledging the sovereignty of God. (Cf. Gen. 50:20 - "God meant it for good.") When we ask "why" ... God has a good purpose. Out of every tragedy comes a hallelujah.

Some family applications from the passage: As fathers we must make clear that our children understand we love them equally. Children should emulate Joseph's example of obedience ... "Here am I" instead of "Why me?" or "I don't know how." In other words, an attitude of being ready and willing for service and obedience, even if the task is unpleasant or requires initiative to figure out how to go about it. This passage also shows the value of brothers (cf. Prov. 17:17 ... "a brother is born for adversity")

Interesting parallels between life of Joseph and the life of Jacob his father: (1) their father lied to, (2) enmity among brothers, (3) younger son sent away to foreign land, (4) reconciliation with brothers.

Next week: Genesis 39.