Genesis 37—38: Pride and Prejudice
WE OFTEN SEE how children tend to duplicate the weaknesses as well as the strengths of their parents. This is evident in many families of the Old Testament. Jacob suffered from parental favoritism as a boy. Now we see how he perpetuates this practice in his relationship with Joseph—with disastrous results.
Warming Up to God
How have you seen the harmful effects of "playing favorites" in your family?
Read Genesis 37—38. »
Discovering the Word
- Describe the family relationships at the outset of the story (37:1-4).
- We have already seen in the examples of Abimelech, Jacob and Laban that dreams are a medium through which God reveals his will. This time, however, the communication is not through words. How are the symbols in Joseph's two dreams interpreted by his family (37:5-11)?
- What are the varied reactions of Joseph's brothers when they see him approaching (37:12-22)?
- What motive do you see in the way the brothers report the news of Joseph's disappearance to their father (37:29-35)?
- In spite of having three sons, how does Judah find his lineage to be in jeopardy (38:1-11)?
- What strategy does Tamar work out to establish her status as matriarch of Judah's line (38:12-30)?
Applying the Word
- Jacob's favoritism, Joseph's arrogance and the brothers' envy contribute to this tragedy of rivalry and hatred. To what extent are you involved in a family situation, either your own or that of a friend, with some of these elements?
- Perez (38:29) is listed in the genealogies of David (Ru 4:18-22) and Joseph, the husband of Mary (Mt 1:3). How can this fact help us to appreciate God's grace?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to give you endurance when painful circumstances make his will seem unsure.
For Further Study
Genesis 12-50 Edited by Mark Sheridan