1. This morning we showed from the Scriptures how "all things worked together for good in Joseph's life" (Romans 8:28). 2. A careful study of his life leads us to conclude: "Joseph was a man of faith." 3. We are shown in Genesis how Joseph demonstrated his faith when he: a. was a slave in Potiphar's house (Genesis 39:1-4) b. was in prison (Genesis 39:20-23) c. interpreted Pharaoh's dreams (Genesis 41:14-16) d. revealed himself to his brothers (Genesis 45:4-8) e. spoke to his brothers after Jacob's death (Genesis 50:15-21). 4. In our lesson we are concentrating on 2 ways in which Joseph demonstrated his faith at the end of his life (Hebrews 11:22). a. He "made mention of the departing of the children of Israel." b. He "gave commandment concerning his bones." Discussion: I. FIRST, BY FAITH JOSEPH "MADE MENTION OF THE DEPARTING OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL"
A. This is recorded in Genesis 50:22-24. 1. Joseph was blessed with a long life in Egypt (vs.22-23). 2. Just before his death, Joseph told his brethren that God would bring them from Egypt to Canaan (vs.24). B. Joseph knew that God had promised to give Canaan to the descendants of: 1. Abraham (Genesis 12:5-7; 15:13-16) 2. Isaac (Genesis 26:1-4) 3. Jacob (Genesis 28:10-13). C. Joseph had seen his father and his family settle in Egypt where they began to multiply (Genesis 47:27-28). D. Joseph had faith that God would keep His promises by bringing the Israelites from Egypt to Canaan. II. SECOND, BY FAITH JOSEPH "GAVE COMMANDMENT CONCERNING HIS BONES"
A. This is recorded in Genesis 50:25-26. B. Joseph's desires were carried out (Exodus 13:17-19; Joshua 21:43-45; 24:32). Conclusion:
1. We are taught in Hebrews 10:38 that "the just shall live by faith." 2. We have seen that "Joseph was a man of faith." 3. His example helps us to understand how faith allows to have confidence that "all things work together for good."
