Sermon

God’s Hand in the Land of Famine (Genesis 47:1-31)

Introduction

We’re almost through the book of Genesis. Only three more chapters left. This morning is Genesis 47:1-31; this text has glory in it. Because we're going to see God’s hand in the midst of sufferings, in this chapter, is the famine in the whole land. Now, let’s see how God is working through this passage.

I. God Provides Through Joseph (Genesis 47:1-11)

Again, Joseph acts in many wise ways in this chapter, and he does so both privately and publicly. So, we see that all his God-given wisdom and power are shown in this chapter. And I think this will be a blessing to us as we think about our own God-given vocation and work, whether that is in the home, raising the next generation of Christian disciples, God willing, or whether that is outside the home working to provide for…

Weeping tears of joy 

Big Idea: Those who trust in God long for, and will one day weep, tears of joy — for his saving plan in Jesus will never fail.

1.     God’s saving plan revealed in Joseph’s reveal

2.     God’s faithfulness revealed in Joseph’s provision

3.     God’s reconciliation in Christ foreshadowed in Jacob’s family

Introduction

[Genesis 44.1-34] 2025.05.17  The love of an unfavoured son

 The love of an unfavoured son

Big Idea: In Christ, God exposes our sin, substitutes for our sins, and transforms self-serving sinners into self-sacrificing saints.

1.      A probe into the brother’s love for the favourite son

2.      A plea based on the father’s love for the favourite son

3.      A pursuit to substitute shows a brother’s transformation

Big Idea: Despite our history of misplaced love and envy, there’s hope for those who trust and grow in Lord Jesus, who is full of mercy.

1.     Jacob’s misplaced love has dangerous consequences

2.     Judah’s growth from an envious boy to a responsible man

3.     Joseph’s mercy foreshadows Jesus’ overflowing mercy

Happy Mother’s Day!

It’s great to see so many mothers and their families with us this morning!