Intended for Good

Genesis - The Joseph Narrative

Joseph's story picks up in earnest in Genesis chapter 37. What we know initially about Joseph is that he is the son of Jacob, the grandson of Isaac and the great-grandson of Abraham. Joseph has 11 brothers. Each of his brothers is the ancestor of a tribe of Israel.

Joseph's story begins with a dream and the love of his father. We are told that Jacob loves Joseph deeply, even more than he loves Joseph's brothers. Then, Joseph dreams that his brothers will all bow down to him someday and, in his naiveté, shares this dream. As you can imagine, his brothers don't appreciate the dream.

This begins a series of challenges. Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers. He is falsely accused by his owner's wife. He is thrown in jail and forgotten. But all the while, we are told, God is with him. The dream that God gave Joseph will come true.

Joseph's story is one of challenges, but also one of God's ability to triumph. Working through the events in Joseph's life, God brings about an outcome that blesses multitudes. Though many of the human characters intend harm to Joseph, God has intended good for all and God will prevail. The dream will come true.

Sermon Outline

A. Who is Joseph?

B. How God interacts
1. With Abraham, Isaac, Jacob
2. With Joseph

C. The Dreams

D. "God Has a Plan"

E. How God Communicates With Us

F. The End

NEXT STEPS:

1) Read Revelation 21:1-4.

2) Pray that God would deepen your faith that God will accomplish this end goal.

3) Commit Revelation 21:1-4 to memory, to draw upon when you face challenges.

GROWTH GROUP / PERSONAL REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1. What do you think it means to say that "God has a plan?"

2. Do you get frustrated when people tell you that God has a plan? Does this thought comfort you?

3. What parts of God's plan were revealed to Joseph? What parts were withheld from Joseph?

4. What do you think God's ultimate plan is?

5. Does this plan comfort you? Frustrate you?

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