StoneBridge Community Church
Senior Pastor Jon Saur
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.
Genesis 39:1-23 NRSV
Sermon Outline
I. Joseph's character
A. Temptation?
B. He refused.
C. Why?
II. The dream
A. Doesn't just give us hope
B. Helps us respond
III. Character Matters
A. Not for salvation
B. For witness
IV. End Goal
NEXT STEPS:
1) Write down a list of decisions you have to make that involve other people.
2) Reflect on Revelation 21:1-4 and pray that God would deepen your faith in this vision for the future.
3) How might believing that Rev. 21:1-4 truly will come to pass influence your decisions listed in #1?
GROWTH GROUP / PERSONAL REFLECTION QUESTIONS
1. Joseph stands out in the Bible for his solid character. Why do you think he was able to make wise decisions?
2. Make a list of people who are known for making appropriate decisions. What character traits do they share?
3. How might the dream God gave Joseph have helped him to make wise decisions?
4. Why is character important? Why is it important that the words Christians use match reality?
5. How might knowing the end result of God's work help you to make wise decisions?
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