1. The principle revealed in Romans 8:28 is illustrated many times in the Bible. 2. For example, Genesis shows how all things worked together for good in the life of Joseph as well as the lives of his family members. 3. In this lesson we are examining the information presented in Genesis 50. Discussion: I. (vs.1-14) JACOB'S BURIAL WISHES WERE CARRIED OUT
A. (vs.1) Joseph expressed his grief when his father died. 1. This helps us see how close Joseph was to his father. 2. Even though Joseph was upset, no doubt he was thankful that he could be with his father during his final years. 3. Joseph showed his love and respect for Jacob by carrying out his wishes. B. (vs.2-3) Joseph had his father's body embalmed. 1. The Egyptians were well known for their embalming practices. 2. The embalming was necessary because Jacob's body was being taken to Canaan. 3. After the embalming was completed, . . . C. (vs.4-6) Joseph received permission from Pharaoh to carry out Jacob's wishes. 1. (vs.4-5) Joseph communicated Jacob's wishes to Pharaoh. 2. (vs.6) Pharaoh granted Joseph permission to fulfill his oath. D. (vs.7-9) A great procession made the trip to Canaan. E. (vs.10-11) When the procession arrived in Canaan, Joseph proclaimed a 7-day period of mourning. F. (vs.12-13) Jacob's sons carried out their father's wishes. G. (vs.14) Following the burial, everyone returned to Egypt. II. (vs.15-21) ANOTHER WISH OF JACOB WAS CARRIED OUT
A. (vs.15) Joseph's brothers were concerned that he would take vengeance on them. 1. (45:4-11, 15) Joseph indicated that he held no animosity toward his brothers when he revealed himself to them. 2. Joseph's brothers had lived in Egypt 17 years. 3. Without their father being present, Joseph's brothers were fearful of what he might do to them. B. (vs.16-17a) Joseph's brothers communicated their father's wish for Joseph to forgive them. 1. This message was communicated through a messenger. 2. Notice how Joseph felt (vs.17b). C. (vs.18) Joseph's brothers approached him personally. D. (vs.19-20) Joseph assured his brothers that he forgave them. 1. If anyone ever had a reason to take vengeance on someone, Joseph did. 2. He held no animosity toward his brothers, even though they had treated him so badly. 3. Joseph was very wise in that he concentrated on the good that God brought to pass. 4. Joseph not only forgave his brothers -- he did much more. a. He said he would take care of them and their families. b. He comforted them. III. (vs.22-26) JOSEPH SPENT THE REST OF HIS LIFE IN EGYPT
A. (vs.22-23) God blessed Joseph with a long life. 1. (vs.22) He lived to be 110 years old. 2. (vs.23) He lived to see his great-grandchildren. B. (vs.24-25) Joseph took care of 2 matters before he died. 1. (vs.24) Joseph assured his family that God would take them to Canaan. 2. (vs.25) Joseph took an oath from the Israelites concerning his burial plans (see 48:21). C. (vs.26) When Joseph died, his body was embalmed and placed in a coffin.
