Adult
• 4 Sessions of Learner’s Materials
• 4 Sessions of Teaching Materials
• 1 Handouts
1. Genesis 39:1-20
2. Genesis 41:39-57
3. Genesis 45:1-18
4. Genesis 50:15-26
Most of us are familiar with the story of Joseph, but few people are aware of how much of Genesis is devoted to him. Yet, more important than length is the continuous thread of God's providential guidance and care woven throughout Joseph's story. The passages for this unit were chosen for two reasons: each highlights the role God played in guiding the life of Joseph, and each highlights Joseph's devotion to God regardless of his experiences.
A careful study of this unit can give you a new perspective on the role God played in Joseph's life. God guided Joseph to a position of power in Egypt that meant the survival of Joseph's family and the beginning of the Hebrew nation that would one day inhabit the promised land. Joseph's sustained obedience to God was a crucial factor in his rise to leadership in Egypt.
Session one addresses the issue of facing and fleeing temptation. This phase of Joseph's life reminds us that we can do everything right and still face problems. The second session considers the role Joseph played in preparing Egypt for a great famine. Joseph's careful planning helped Egypt and the surrounding nations--including his own family members---survive. Session three draws our attention to God's guidance in the lives of those devoted to God. While it is often difficult to recognize God at work, we can be assured that God is always with us. The final session demonstrates that what may initially appear to be a negative event can ultimately work for good when God is involved. Obedience to God in every situation is a direct path to peace and fulfillment in life.
by Bill Hill
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