Genesis 46-48

Chapter 46
Main idea
God repeats His promises to Jacob on their way to Egypt.  Everyone who goes is named.  Joseph coordinates their arrival and situation, and is reunited with his father.

How this is about Jesus
Judah is the pioneer, as Jesus is our firstfruits who takes his whole family, everyone known by name, with Him.

Sins this reveals
Looking before you leap - seizing an apparently great opportunity before setting it before the Lord.
Overlooking the little ones, all named here, to focus on the big picture or on the ones in authority.


Chapter 47
Main idea
Jacob and sons meet Pharaoh.  Jacob deigns to bless Pharaoh, though he knows his days have been evil.  Though Pharaoh has the political power, Jacob has the promises of God to inherit the earth (Romans 4:13; Gen 17:5-6).  For the next 5 years, Joseph deals mercifully with people utterly destitute.  Instead of utterly enslaving them, he lets them keep 80% of their income, though they have mortgaged all their property and their lives to him.  Jacob nears death and reminds the family that their inheritance is not in Egypt.

How this is about Jesus
All the world is utterly dependent on Jesus.  We have total famine without His provision.  He is also kind to us and asks of us less than we owe Him.  He takes a particular interest in His people.

Sins this reveals
We can get comfortable in a foreign land, even in famine.  Used to the ways of those who haven't claimed God's promises of salvation.
We can take advantage of others when they are dependent on us.


Chapter 48
Main idea
Jacob blesses Joseph's sons, the younger over the older, and gives Joseph land instead of his brothers.

How this is about Jesus
The actual blessing in vss 15-16 is that Israel's name be carried on and that his descendants grow into a multitude.  This happens in Christ, who saw His seed and was satisfied (Isa 53).  Jesus is exalted over His brothers to receive the blessing of God.

Sins this reveals
Trying to arrange future generations according to custom or individual expectation, instead of trusting God's providence.