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

I. Joseph in prison
A. The dreams
B. "He forgot him."

II. "Waiting" in the Bible
A. Psalms
B. Luke
C. Already/Not yet

III. Patience
A. Annoyances
B. Benefits

IV. Joseph's Patience
A. No indication things would get better.
B. The story isn't over.

V. Jesus' resurrection and Patience
A. Christians should be the most patient people around.
B. Christ's victory.

NEXT STEPS:

1) Identify something in your life for which you are waiting.

2) Find a Psalm about waiting on God.

3) Pray that Psalm with the item from #1 in mind.

GROWTH GROUP / PERSONAL REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1.) When is a time that you had to wait for something important?

2.) Do you wait well? What helps you to wait well?

3.) Is there a story in the Bible of someone waiting that stands out to you?

4.) How do you think Joseph waited in prison?

5.) Is patience difficult for you? Why or why not?

6.) What are some ways to cultivate patience?

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