Genesis 49-50

Chapter 49
Main idea
Jacob prophesies about each of his sons, giving the rule to Judah, since the older three have forfeited it through various gross sins.  Jacob then dies.

How this is about Jesus
He is from the tribe of Judah, called to rule.  The scepter never departs from Judah.  It still hasn't and never will.  He lives forever, unlike all his ancestors who received these promises (Jacob).  They all died in hope.  Jesus' death made the promise come true.

Sins this reveals
Gross sin can have consequences years later, for your legacy and generational heritage.  Grace can redeem such situations, too.


Chapter 50
Main idea
Joseph buries Jacob in Canaan.  His brothers start jockeying for his favor (or cravenly subjecting themselves to him), and he puts a stop to it by publicly forgiving them.  Joseph also asks for burial in Canaan, not Egypt.

How this is about Jesus
Jesus means us good and provides for us and our little ones (vs 21).  As the burial of Jacob and Joseph in Canaan points the rest to God's promises, the cross points us to those promises kept.

Sins this reveals
We fear lack of forgiveness and wrathful reprisal from God in His justice.  We know our guilt and what we deserve.