Genesis: Part 66

Sunday, November 23, 2025

"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today."   ~ Genesis 50:20 

Main Claim: The Christ foreshadowed in the Genesis story, and featured in the Bible's story, is the Christ who fulfills your story.  

Read Genesis 50:1-26 together

Three Questions - From Genesis 50:1-26

What does this passage teach us historically?

  • Summary: Genesis 50:1-26 describes the final days of Jacob and Joseph, highlighting themes of grief over death, warm and tender forgiveness, and God's sweet sovereignty and meticulous providence.

    • In the first few verses, Joseph is with his dad (Jacob) when he dies. What characteristics does Joseph display at the end of Jacob's life? 

    • What do you make of the Egyptians participating in the burial of Jacob (v.7)? What are some reasons that come to mind for Pharaoh honoring Joseph? 

    • Vv . 11-14 What was the significance of "the cave of Machpelah in the land of Canaan"  where Jacob was buried? (Hint: a foreshadowing of the Exodus of God's people into the Promised Land). God keeps His covenant with His people! See Gen.12:1-3,7. 

    • Reread Vv. 15-26. What specifically do you see in these verses about God's good purposes?  

What does this passage teach us theologically?

  • God orders all the events of history, both good and bad, with sovereign power and providential care. 

    • What is the difference between God's sovereign power and His providential care? 

    • How does believing this theological truth shape your day-to-day emotions, choices, and activities? What is one thing you are currently angry about to which you can apply this hope-producing theological insight?  

 What does this passage teach us practically?

  • Belief in God's sovereign rule & providential care . . .

    • Makes you willing to forgive.

      • Ponder Romans 12:19. Think about how relationally and specifically you have been wronged.  How will knowing God shape your desire and determination to forgive others? What action steps will you take to demonstrate a heart of forgiveness? 

    • Makes you faith-filled in life.

      • Ponder Hebrews 11:22. What spiritual disciplines help grow your faith? What are some ways you will put these disciplines in place?  How will nurturing your faith today aid you at the end of your life? 

    • Makes you hopeful in death.

      • Ponder John 11:26. Do you believe this promise? If not, talk with your Growth Group leaders about it. If so, talk to everyone about it!

      • Are there changes you need to make in your Growth Group to ensure it is an incubator that stimulates faith that produces love and hope? If so, when will you make these changes? 

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