God's Handiwork

God’s Handiwork

Genesis 44:14-34

God repairs broken people.

Joseph sees…

Repaired hearts. (14-18)

The destructive power of sin. (19-31)

Sacrificial love. (32-34)

For the Next Lesson – Genesis 44:14-34

1. Read 14-17. Here, the narrator changes the group name from “the men” to “Judah and his brothers.” Why do you think that matters to the story? Joseph mentions that he “can indeed practice divination” in verse 15. Divination is the pagan practice of interpreting water and oil and it is forbidden for Jews to do in Deuteronomy 18:9-12. What is Joseph trying do by mentioning this? How is this part of his elaborate illusion? In 16, Judah says “God has found out the guilt of your servants.” What is he refering to? Joseph’s elaborate plan is complete in verse 17. Why is he trying to recreate the scenario between him the brothers over 20 years before?

2. Read 18-29 This is the longest speech in Genesis. In order to fully appreciate Judah’s heart filled speech, read Genesis 37:26-28 and 38:2, 24-26. Judah made some big mistakes. List out all the ways you see a heart change in this passage. How does Judah speak about his father’s favoritism? In verse 20, Judah admits “his brother [Joseph] is dead.” Why is that a significant admission? Notice verse 28. Why is this significant considering Joseph is the one listening? What does Joseph learn about his dad in this portion of the speech? Have you ever been a situation where you had “one last shot” to fix a problem? How is Judah’s speech godly?

3. Read 30-34. This is the turning point in the entire story of Joseph. It has all come down to this. Judah first reveals that he guaranteed Benjamin’s return to Jacob. How does this highlight a change in his heart to Joseph? What is Judah’s main concern? Why is Judah’s concern for his father so special in light of his father’s imperfect parenting? Have you ever had a family member who was difficult to love? What makes unconditional love so special. How does God unconditionally love you? Notice the request in 33. Judah failed to lay down his life for Joseph. He isn’t going to fail again with Benjamin. What do you think Joseph was thinking and feeling at this point? How is this similar to what Jesus has done for you and me (1 Timothy 2:5-6)? Take a moment and reflect on the entire Joseph story up until this point. Record all the times you saw God’s hands providentially moving the characters along. Now recall in your own life all the times God has guided you through the ups and downs.