Old Testament Studies – Page 2

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

Mystery revealed

Now that Judah has revealed his heart and demonstrated repentance, how will Joseph respond? Is it time for him to make full disclosure? Read Genesis 45:1-15 Joseph is overcome with emotion and can no longer hide his feelings. He sends out the Egyptians with him and begins to weep. It seems that Joseph’s apartment is… Continue reading Mystery revealed

Before the throne my surety stands

Now it is Simeon’s turn to seemingly be left forgotten. Jacob is loath to let the brother return however the severe and ongoing famine will soon force his hand. Read Genesis 43 The famine continues in severity and the family eventually run out of food. The brothers beg Jacob to let them return to Egypt… Continue reading Before the throne my surety stands

A sort of reunion

There is one thing missing from the jigsaw. Joseph has been exalted to a high position but he remains exiled from his family. His original dreams indicated that his own family would bow down to him and recognise his authority. This has not happened yet and does not look like happen. How will God bring… Continue reading A sort of reunion