BIG PICTURE “Genesis 37-50 are notoriously difficult chapters to interpret – most probably because they have almost no theological commentary embedded in the story itself. However, the Joseph Story, understood according to its biblical-theological context, functions as the resolution to the plot of Genesis. Joseph is intimately linked to the Abrahamic Covenant, functioning as the first major instantiation of the fulfilment of the Abrahamic promises. Joseph’s ministry multiplies the seed of Israel, blesses the nations, and prepares Israel to inherit Canaan. In the light of these features of the story, Moses suggests that Joseph’s life is typological – one that points to a future and more complete fulfilment of God’s promises. Joseph also provides resolution to (or sometimes, more appropriately, reversal of) the fractious, curse-ridden storylines developed in Genesis, such as fraternal conflict, famine, and family deception. Furthermore, Moses links the story of Joseph to the eschatological expectations established in Genesis (such as Royal Seed) and specifically to the hope for an eschatological king.” (Sam Emadi)

1. Joseph’s dreams of royal kingship (37:1–11)
   • Joseph irritates his brothers by bringing “a bad report” against them, and by announcing dreams that depict him as the God-ordained head of the family, and the Royal Seed of Abraham. Meanwhile, his father exacerbates the situation by gifting him a princely robe that prevents his partaking in the mundane work of shepherding. Toxic favoritism roiled Jacob’s own childhood, but he seems to be oblivious to its impact on his own children! Yet, none of these events lies outside of God’s control, sinful though they are. What humans mean for evil, God means for good (50:20). He will work all these things for his people’s salvation and blessing when a great famine comes, and ultimately, he will restore and heal these broken family relationships. None of Joseph’s sufferings will be wasted in the providence of God. Not only will Joseph be transformed by his experiences, but so will his brothers . . .especially Judah.
2. Joseph is sold by his brothers into slavery (37:12–36)
   • Jacob’s deep despair is accounted for by his assumption that with the death of Joseph - whom Jacob imagined to be the Child of Promise - God’s promise had also failed. However, God’s purposes are not so easily derailed, and God will use the brothers’ heinous sins to advance his perfect plan for humanity, as well as for the survival of Jacob’s family and the ultimate reconciliation of the brothers.

This sermon is indebted to “From Prisoner to Prince” by Sam Emadi; and “Genesis” by Ian M. Duguid