The book of Genesis has a wonderful symmetry to it that we should reflect on before we conclude. The first 11 chapters set the scene for God’s promise to Abraham in 12:2-3. The book of Genesis then shows how God fulfils his promise despite the bad choices of Abraham and his descendants (think particularly of Jacob). Through all the mess and the fumbling of human beings, God sovereignly and graciously fulfils his promises and his purpose. The story of Joseph is the ultimate fulfilment narrative in Genesis. Through the evil deeds of Joseph’s brothers, Joseph ascends to a place of greatness and, through him, blessing (in the form of food) goes to all the peoples of the known world. This is a loud and clear fulfilment of the promise to Abraham. But the story of Joseph also points beyond itself. It points to the ultimate universal fulfilment of the promise to Abraham. Like Joseph, Jesus’ brothers gave him over to foreigners, not just to slavery, but to death. The more you think about it the more parallels you will discern between the story of Joseph and that of Jesus. He truly was the son of Joseph! Joseph said to his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (50:20). Isn’t this exactly the same with Christ? I find the Bible amazing in this respect. There is a consistency and pattern of fulfilment that could not be fabricated. God is sovereignly at work in the world, even through the evil deeds of people. Even through your failures his promises will be fulfilled, and his purpose will THRIVE.
Reflect on and pray for the promise of Genesis 12:1-3 to be fulfilled in and through your life.
Read Genesis 12:1-3
