Genesis Part 080

Joseph's brothers continued to struggle with the idea that he could really forgive them for the evil they did to him. But we know that true followers of God must be able to forgive others. As part of the model prayer that Jesus Christ would later use to teach His disciples to pray, it states in Matthew 6:12, 

“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” 

And again, in verse 15, 

“But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your father forgive your trespasses.” 

These are incredibly important instructions for us. Jesus Christ is the ultimate example for us (Luke 23:24), and the disciple Stephen (Acts 7:60) is another great example to study as well. 

Genesis 50:19 says, 

“Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God?” 

Joseph's maturity shown here is incredible. He understood that God was the One in control, and that He chooses how to correct others. 

Joseph understood this as he makes a profound statement: 

“But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.” 

Not only was he forgiving, but he also promised to provide for and take care of his brothers and their families. He also comforted and spoke kindly to them. Joseph set such an amazing example of what followers of God should be like. 

In verse 23, we read that Joseph lived long enough and close enough to his children that he could see and spend time with his great-great-grandchildren! What an incredible outcome considering some of the challenges he experienced earlier in life.  

The UCG Bible Commentary shares the following regarding the end of the chapter: “Joseph also wished to eventually be buried in the land of his fathers. Knowing that God would later bring the children of Israel out of Egypt and back to Canaan, he made them swear to 'carry up my bones from here’ (verse 25). However, as a national figure in Egypt, he was first put in a coffin in Egypt rather than being buried in his homeland right away. That Joseph anticipated his burial in Egypt and the Exodus as well is clear from the obligation he bound on the descendants of Israel. Moses would make good on the oath more than 200 years later by taking Joseph’s bones out of Egypt during the Exodus (Exodus 13:19). The bones remained with the children of Israel until they entered the Promised Land and were eventually buried in Shechem (Joshua 24:32). 

The bones of the patriarchs being buried in the land of Canaan may well have symbolized their future inheritance of the Promised Land, itself representative of God’s coming Kingdom—and indeed that is where they will awaken at the inauguration of God’s Kingdom when Jesus Christ returns. Of course, regardless of where our bones might be buried, the saints of God will all be awakened at Christ’s call to establish the true Promised Land, God’s Kingdom, over all the earth.”  

As he died at 110 years old, Joseph lived 80 years after coming to his position of prominence in Egypt. It is clear through the Genesis account that God greatly increased the power and control Pharaoh had over Egypt and the surrounding areas due to the blessings poured out on Joseph. What an amazing story and conclusion to the first book of the Bible! 

UYA Team | uya@ucg.org  

United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.