Biblical Studies – Page 2

The future of a family

Joseph has had his own private audience with his father and his sons but as Jacob gets closer to death, he has things to say to his whole family. Read Genesis 49 Jacob assembles his family. Once again note the interchange of names, they are “sons of Jacob”, he is their “father Israel.” He prophesies… Continue reading The future of a family

Echoes of a blessing

I think there was a real sense in which Joseph had died to Jacob when he went to Egypt. He now was more Egyptian that Hebrew and that’s where his priorities in the life lay, even if he still had hope for return to Canaan one day. This fact probably helps us to understand a… Continue reading Echoes of a blessing

Priorities, excuses and a reality check

The Jews who had returned to Jerusalem were arguing that it was the wrong time to rebuild the temple. It seemed that a mixture of economic circumstances and opposition for outsiders had convinced them that even though they didn’t disagree with the plan, that the timing simply wasn’t right. However, God has made it clear… Continue reading Priorities, excuses and a reality check

Servitude

The popular version of the Joseph story runs that Jacob spoils his son and is at fault for the brother’s jealousy. This is exacerbated by Joseph’s arrogant boasting about his dreams. However, being sold into slavery changes Joseph making him good, wise and just. Is that a fair rendition? Well, there have been clues along… Continue reading Servitude

Who makes the call?

What is the thing that you are putting off? It could be the decision to move job or house, to start a family, to get involved in a particular area of ministry. Sime times it feels like the time is never right. Read Haggai 1:1-2 The background to these verses is the first few chapters… Continue reading Who makes the call?

Signposts to home

We are moving to the end of the book of Genesis, the foundation of the whole Bible story of God’s redemptive plan. This also means that w are moving towards the end of Jacob’s life story. Remember that whilst our focus has been on Joseph, this is really the story of “what became of Jacob… Continue reading Signposts to home

Haggai and Nehemiah – background

This autumn our church are going to be looking at two books of the bible which take us into the period of history after the Jews return from exile in Babylon and Persia where they had been dispersed to due to their sin and rebellion against God. A bit of historical background to show how… Continue reading Haggai and Nehemiah – background

Home and away

There is one small matter that we might risk overlooking but would have been muvh more on Jacob’s radar. Departure from the land has tended and especially to Egypt has tended to be seen as negative in Genesis. Read Genesis 46 Jacob begins the journey down to Egypt. He pauses at Beersheba to offer sacrifices.… Continue reading Home and away

Sending for dad

Now the stage is set for the greatest re-union of all. Joseph sends for his father. However, before the brothers can return, there is another important step to happen first. Joseph may have significant authority but he has taken a bold step in inviting his family. Will they all be welcome? Read Genesis 45:16-28 The… Continue reading Sending for dad

The switch

We are now moving to the big reveal in the story. Joseph is now almost reunited with his younger brother and there is evidence of repentance on his brothers’ part but they still do not know his true identity. Read Genesis 44 Joseph gives instructions to his steward to again provide fo the brothers and… Continue reading The switch