1. The Bible contains many illustrations of the principle revealed in Romans 8:28. 2. For example, Genesis shows how all things worked together for good in Joseph's life. 3. In this lesson we are examining the information presented in ch.48. 4. There are several points made in ch.47 that we must keep in mind. a. (vs.7-9) Jacob and his family moved to Egypt when he was 130 years old. b. (vs.27) Jacob's family prospered in Egypt. c. (vs.28-31) After living in Egypt 17 years, Jacob knew his life was about to end, and he took an oath from Joseph concerning his burial plans. 5. The main point made in ch.48 is that Jacob blessed Joseph and his sons. Discussion: I. (vs.1-2) JOSEPH AND HIS 2 SONS VISITED JACOB
A. (vs.1) After learning that Jacob was ill, Joseph visited his father with his 2 sons. 1. Joseph's sons were Manasseh and Ephraim. 2. Their births are recorded in 41:50-52. B. (vs.2) When Jacob learned that Joseph was visiting him, he found the strength to sit up in his bed. II. DURING THIS VISIT, JACOB REHEARSED SEVERAL MATTERS THAT WERE VERY IMPORTANT TO HIM
A. (vs.3-4) Jacob mentioned how God had appeared to him and promised to bless him. 1. God had appeared to Jacob when he left his family (28:12-15). 2. God also appeared to Jacob as he traveled back to his home (35:9-12). B. (vs.7) Jacob mentioned Rachel's death. C. (vs.11) Jacob had not only seen Joseph, but he had also seen Joseph's sons. III. (vs.5-6) JACOB CLAIMED JOSEPH'S SONS AS HIS OWN
A. Notice that Jacob reversed the order to "Ephraim and Manasseh." B. When Jacob claimed Ephraim and Manasseh as his own, they became entitled to a portion of Canaan just like his other sons. IV. (vs.8-22) JACOB BLESSED JOSEPH AND HIS 2 SONS
A. (vs.8-10) Jacob wanted Joseph to bring his sons near him. 1. Jacob had earlier claimed Manasseh and Ephraim as his own (vs.5). 2. He apparently did not realize they were there because of poor eyesight. B. (vs.12-13) When Joseph brought his sons to Jacob, he positioned them according to their ages. 1. Joseph placed Manasseh, the oldest, at Jacob's right hand. 2. Joseph placed Ephraim, the youngest, at Jacob's left hand. C. (vs.14-20) Jacob blessed Ephraim over Manasseh. 1. (vs.14) Jacob placed his right hand on Ephraim's head, and he placed his left hand on Manasseh's head. 2. (vs.15-16) Jacob pronounced a special blessing upon Joseph and his sons. 3. (vs.17-18) Joseph did not approve of Jacob's choice. 4. (vs.19-20) Although Joseph did not approve, Jacob blessed Ephraim over Manasseh [Jacob had been blessed over his brother Esau -- 25:23]. D. (vs.21-22) Jacob blessed Joseph. 1. (vs.21) Jacob assured Joseph that God would take him back to Canaan. 2. (vs.22) Jacob had given Joseph an extra portion over his brothers. Conclusion:
1. In ch.48, Jacob blessed Joseph and his 2 sons. 2. In ch.49, Jacob spoke to all of his sons just before he died.
