Forgiving Joseph's Way (II)
Genesis 42:8-17
Genesis 45:1-8
Continuing from last week's message, we look at how Joseph forgave his brothers during the time of famine. This was not easy for joseph to do considering the that he was betrayed by close family members. We also need to forgive those who are close to us whether they are family or in the Christian community. It is vital that Christians forgive since the call of forgiveness is the very heart of God.
Jesus through his life and sacrifice demonstrates the reason why we should forgive.
but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8 ESV
Jesus, as a person, did not want to embrace the cup, but he did. He gave the example of how we should forgive even when it is something we gravely wish to avoid.
And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.”
Matthew 26:39 ESV
With forgiveness, it is more than just saying that you forgive the person. You cannot just forgive the person and walk away. The forgiveness Jesus speaks of includes making reconciliation. We need to make peace
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Matthew 5:9 ESV
We know that we have overcome unforgiveness when we come to the point of being concerned about the needs of those who have offended us. Joseph demonstrates this genuine concern over revenge. When Joseph first sees his brothers, he is angry to see them. After a few days, Joseph realizes that his family members are suffering.
if you are honest men, let one of your brothers remain confined where you are in custody, and let the rest go and carry grain for the famine of your households, and bring your youngest brother to me. So your words will be verified, and you shall not die.” And they did so.
Genesis 42:19-20 ESV
Not only do we need to act in a way not to repay evil or desire that God punishes, but we need to allow God to work on us. We should take time to see how God is using the offense to teach you something, understand something or the offender is being used as an instrument by God.
And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you
Genesis 42:5 ESV
When we do not feel like we should forgive others, we should pursue forgiveness. Joseph did not wait until his anger had calmed down. Joseph pushed himself to forgive and do what God has called him. Joseph shows us that by forcing himself to forgive, he quickens the forgiveness process.
When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, “Bring the men into the house, and slaughter an animal and make ready, for the men are to dine with me at noon.”
Genesis 43:16 ESV
When we wish well those who we have forgiven, we have are on the way to true forgiveness. When we start to experience feelings of compassion rather than vengeance, we are on the way to truly forgiving.
Then Joseph hurried out, for his compassion grew warm for his brother, and he sought a place to weep. And he entered his chamber and wept there.
Genesis 43:30 ESV
When someone offends you, they are usually full of guilt and quite often are looking for relief from their quilt. By forgiving those who are guilty, we allow them to heal. Holding back forgiveness only perpetuates their pain and guilt. Joseph demonstrates that forgiveness to his brothers. We too need to forgive those who are in need our fellowship.
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
Romans 12:17 ESV
Joseph also show that true forgiveness is like true love. It does not set out to harm or embarrass others. When we truly forgive someone, we try to allow them to save face.
Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him. He cried, “Make everyone go out from me.” So no one stayed with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers.
Genesis 45:1 ESV
Joseph knew that his brothers would be deeply shamed if there sins were exposed to everyone. Instead Joseph confronted his brothers after everyone was dismissed. He did not talk about them to others or explain in great how wrong they were.
May we act like Joseph to allow love to reign in our hearts so forgiveness can manifest and God be glorified.
Matthew 26:39 ESV
With forgiveness, it is more than just saying that you forgive the person. You cannot just forgive the person and walk away. The forgiveness Jesus speaks of includes making reconciliation. We need to make peace
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Matthew 5:9 ESV
We know that we have overcome unforgiveness when we come to the point of being concerned about the needs of those who have offended us. Joseph demonstrates this genuine concern over revenge. When Joseph first sees his brothers, he is angry to see them. After a few days, Joseph realizes that his family members are suffering.
if you are honest men, let one of your brothers remain confined where you are in custody, and let the rest go and carry grain for the famine of your households, and bring your youngest brother to me. So your words will be verified, and you shall not die.” And they did so.
Genesis 42:19-20 ESV
Not only do we need to act in a way not to repay evil or desire that God punishes, but we need to allow God to work on us. We should take time to see how God is using the offense to teach you something, understand something or the offender is being used as an instrument by God.
And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you
Genesis 42:5 ESV
When we do not feel like we should forgive others, we should pursue forgiveness. Joseph did not wait until his anger had calmed down. Joseph pushed himself to forgive and do what God has called him. Joseph shows us that by forcing himself to forgive, he quickens the forgiveness process.
When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, “Bring the men into the house, and slaughter an animal and make ready, for the men are to dine with me at noon.”
Genesis 43:16 ESV
When we wish well those who we have forgiven, we have are on the way to true forgiveness. When we start to experience feelings of compassion rather than vengeance, we are on the way to truly forgiving.
Then Joseph hurried out, for his compassion grew warm for his brother, and he sought a place to weep. And he entered his chamber and wept there.
Genesis 43:30 ESV
When someone offends you, they are usually full of guilt and quite often are looking for relief from their quilt. By forgiving those who are guilty, we allow them to heal. Holding back forgiveness only perpetuates their pain and guilt. Joseph demonstrates that forgiveness to his brothers. We too need to forgive those who are in need our fellowship.
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
Romans 12:17 ESV
Joseph also show that true forgiveness is like true love. It does not set out to harm or embarrass others. When we truly forgive someone, we try to allow them to save face.
Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him. He cried, “Make everyone go out from me.” So no one stayed with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers.
Genesis 45:1 ESV
Joseph knew that his brothers would be deeply shamed if there sins were exposed to everyone. Instead Joseph confronted his brothers after everyone was dismissed. He did not talk about them to others or explain in great how wrong they were.
May we act like Joseph to allow love to reign in our hearts so forgiveness can manifest and God be glorified.
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