Lesson 28 Genesis 4245

Lesson 28 Genesis 4245Joseph and his brothersThe famine forces Jacob to send his other sons to get food from Egypt.How long has gone by?Gen 41:46Joseph was 30 (13 years)Gen 45:115 more years of famine (9 years)22 years, Joseph was 49How old then were his brothers?In their 50sThey probably had children of their ownJoseph and his brothersHow had both sides changed?Joseph came from slavery to be second in command of all EgyptBrothers were older, had families of their own, probably more mature/reflectiveHow did his brothers feel about what they did to Joseph?Joseph uses this as a teaching moment (again)He takes them through the repentance process.Step 1Joseph recognizes them, they dont recognize him.Joseph accuses them of being spiesGen 42:21RecognizeHow did they feel?Did it matter that it was 22 years later?

Elder M Russell BallardSin will always, always, result in suffering. It may come sooner, or it may come later, but it will come M. Russell Ballard

Step 2Joseph filled their sacks with food, gave them back moneyThey have to bring Benjamin back to prove they are not spiesLeave SimeonFinally, Jacob is convinced to let Benjamin goJoseph leaves his cup in Benjamins sack, to accuse him of stealing, take him back.Gen 44:13They rent their clothes

Step 2Gen 44:16Confess/Ask for ForgivenessDid Joseph intend to keep Benjamin as a servant?Judah is starting to play a larger role, showing faith and righteousnessStep 3Gen 44:33RectifyJudah is willing to sacrifice himself instead of his brother, BenjaminDouble symbolism!Joseph as Christ (asking for repentance)Judah as Christ (willing to sacrifice in Benjamins place)

Step 4Gen 45:1-8Receive ForgivenessJoseph could not refrain himselfHe saw the change in his brethren, filled him with joyHow does Christ feel when we repent, show that we have changed?v7-8 it was not you that sent me hither, but GodNot only could they feel the joy of repentance, they found out the Lord was truly in charge

Chapter 45Chapter of joy, forgiveness, reconciliation, love, reuniting, gratitude, celebration, humility, rejoicingThese are the feelings of repentancePut yourself in the shoes of Josephs brethrenWhat joy can forgiveness bring?Notebook IdeasThink about a time you repented. What were your feelings when you received forgiveness?Why is it worth the suffering to go through the experience of repentance?