1. As we study Hebrews 11 we must keep in mind that "the just shall live by faith" (10:38). 2. In ch.11 we read about a number of Old Testament characters who lived by faith. 3. One practical point made in this chapter is that faith enabled 3 men [Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph] to look forward to the future with optimism, even as they faced death (vs.13). 4. (vs.22) Joseph demonstrated his faith at the end of his life as he: a. "made mention of the departing of the children of Israel" b. "gave commandment concerning his bones." 5. However, Joseph's faith was demonstrated earlier in his life 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).
Discussion:
I. 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) 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. 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).
