Sojourners

Sojourners

Genesis 46:31-47:12

As Christ-followers we are called to live as sojourners during our brief time on this earth.

Christ-following sojourners are distinct. (46:31-47:6)

Christ-following sojourners bless others. (47:7-10)

Christ-following sojourners trust God. (47:11-12)

For the Next Lesson – Genesis 46:31 - 47:12

1. Read verses 46:31-33. Why do you think shepherds were an abomination to Egyptians? What misconceptions about Christians do we face as we follow Christ, and why can this be challenging for us? What does God tell us will happen as we follow Him on this earth (see John 16:33; Acts 14:21-22; Philippians 1:29-30)? Does this encourage or discourage you? Why and how so?

2. Read verses 47:1-7. What did Joseph tell his brothers to say in 46:32 about their occupation? What did the brothers say in 47:3? What does this show us about Joseph’s struggle to be accommodating to Pharaoh and the Egyptians? Do you ever struggle to want to be accommodating to our culture? How so, and why? The brothers said they came to “sojourn” in the land in 47:4. We too sojourn during our time on this earth before we go to our true home in heaven. If we truly consider ourselves sojourners and aliens on this earth, how will our lives and attitudes be affected (see Philippians 3:21-21; 1 Peter 2:11-12)?

3. Read verses 47:8-12. Notice again the emphasis on being a sojourner from Jacob. As a sojourner, what did Jacob do twice for Pharaoh, once at the beginning of their conversation and once at the end? As we live as sojourners how can we bless others while we live on this earth… especially those who do not follow Christ (see Matthew 5:16; Romans 1:16-17; 1 Corinthians 9:22-23; 1 Peter 3:15)?

4. So what. What one specific thing can you take away from this passage that encourages or challenges you in your walk with God today?