Preparing for Sunday

God Will Bring You Home

This Sunday we will come to the conclusion of our journey through Genesis by looking at the final words and final scenes of Jacob and Joseph’s lives (Gen 49:29–50:26). As Jacob prepares to die, he does not want to be buried in Egypt. He believes God’s promises and presence are attached to the promised land. Joseph’s life also ends with the same confidence and request. In our passage, we will see a God who keeps His promises, carries His people through seasons of sorrow and uncertainty, and ultimately gathers them to Himself to dwell together with Him in our forever home. The hope of Genesis is the hope of the gospel: our lives are not defined by our circumstances, but by the faithful God who is working all things according to His good purposes and will one day bring His people into the fullness of His promised kingdom. Only those in Christ will experience the blessings of these eternal promises. Soli Deo Gloria!

Big Idea: Life changing hope should define you because God will finish what He started.

Scene 1 – Hope in the gathering (49:29-50:3)

Scene 2 – Hope in the homecoming (50:4-13)

Scene 3 – Hope in the purposes and promises of God (50:14-26)

Preparation Questions: Genesis 49:29-50:26

1. Both Jacob and Joseph looked beyond Egypt to the promises of God. What earthly things are you tempted to treat as your “home” instead of looking forward to the home God has promised?

2. What circumstances in your life are most difficult to trust God with right now, and how does Genesis 50:20 challenge you to see God’s purposes beyond what you can see?

3. How should the promise that God will gather His people home change the way you face suffering, waiting, and uncertainty today? Does it? 

4. Who in Christ has gone before you that you are eager to see and how should this help you remain steadfast in your faith?