In this closing chapter of Genesis, we are confronted with the heart of God and His question to us, “Do you believe I love you?” Joseph’s brothers are doubtful of his love for them which brings Joseph to tears. Genesis is a book about love and the reconciliation of mankind unto God. How do we respond to this message, and does our response bring our Lord to tears?  

As the book of Genesis closes, we look into the prophetic words Israel spoke over his sons. His words give insight into both the character and future of his children. Declarations of messianic expectations are spoken over both Judah and Joseph, and at the heart of this chapter, we find both vindication and salvation!  

Jacob adopts Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manassah, giving Joseph a double portion in the inheritance of Israel. In this class, we discuss some of the details surrounding this uncommon decision.  

The years of famine are ravaging Egypt but Joseph’s bread is sustaining them. In this class, we see how the Egyptians give up all they possess for this life-preserving bread – would you be willing to give up all you have for the bread of life?  

The promises which God gave to Abraham in Genesis 12 and 15 become ever so clear and real as Jacob, with his entire family, heads to Egypt for what looks like will be a four hundred year period of isolation. Surprisingly, we learn that the prejudices of the Egyptians actually work for the purity of God’s children. Also, see how these events inform our understanding of the prophetic word of God.  

In this class, we take an in-depth look at the parallels of Joseph’s life and that of Yeshua’s (Jesus’) living Gospel message. God’s plan is a plan of reconciliation, one to another and one unto Him! See how the events of the Sons’ of Israel’s reconciliation, one to another, prefigure that of the Messiah to Israel and creation to God.  

 In this class, we look into how Joseph’s cup of silver introduces us to the biblical concepts of silver being seen as revelatory, redemptive, and emblematic of purity. In this chapter, Judah lays it all on the line for both his father and brother’s sake as Joseph’s “examination” reaches its conclusion – what will happen next?  

In this class, we look into the issues of trust, from trusting in God to trusting in each other. Judah begins to show himself as the official choice of leadership for the sons of Israel as Jacob releases his son Benjamin to go to Egypt in order to save everyone from starvation. See what these events teach us about turning our trust over to God, and how this will help you to learn to trust in others again.   

Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt in search of bread, but find themselves at the mercy of a powerful Egyptian ruler. In this class, we explore the details of the chapter and see how reflection allows for the revelation of, sometimes, harsh truths. Discover how the brothers’ treatment of their brother, Benjamin, once again gives Joseph the answers he needs to know regarding how they will receive him.  

In this class, we continue to uncover how Joseph’s life of persecution and exaltation gives insight into the role of the Messiah. We will also look at how we should consider the meanings of dreams. May we always apply the insights given through the Holy Spirit and respond in preparation for the future to come.   

In this class, we look into Joseph’s interpretation of the baker and cupbearer’s dreams, and what it tells us about humanity’s ultimate and eternal decision to follow God.  

In this class, we uncover the connections between the fall of mankind and Joseph’s time in Potiphar’s house. In fleeing from temptation, Joseph gives us an example to follow in demonstrating how grace given is better than grace received.    

Yeshua (Jesus) is the perfect descendant of Judah and Tamar’s son Perez. In this class, we discuss the parallels in Genesis 37 and 38 and the connection of these chapters to Messiah Son of David and Messiah Son of Joseph.    NOTE: The final slides for this class have some typos; most notably “Laterite” which should be “Levirate.” Thank you in advance for understanding!   

Joseph is the favored son of Israel – this and more ignites extreme jealousy within his brothers, resulting in grave consequences. In this class, we discuss how man’s enmity toward one’s brother is a result of his enmity toward God.  

The Lord appears to Jacob as he returns to Bethel, invigorating their relationship. With the death of Deborah, Rachel, and Isaac, we experience the pain of living in a world immersed in death, but are encouraged that as we lay down the ways of our past the Lord is faithful to take us through our present – all the while strengthening us for the future.  

Jacob returns with his family to Canaan and his daughter, Dinah, is taken by the Hivites. This class deals with a difficult subject matter (viewer discretion is advised) and tries to uncover what the Lord is teaching us through this disturbing event. NOTE: At 25:53 the Hebrew is not “chamas” it is “anah” which is rendered in the NASB “by force.”   

You’ll be surprised at what Jacob and Esau’s reunion teaches us about love. Humility allows grace to enter into relationships, bringing about reconciliation and restoration, preventing subjugation (for the sake of brotherly love and the glory of God).  

As Jacob returns to the promised land, the pattern of God’s redemptive plan through and by His co-laboring with mankind is pictured. Jacob wrestling with God reveals his name as Israel and how this “Princess of God” plays a significant role in restoring brother to brother, mankind one to another, and even more importantly, humanity unto God Himself.