Genesis Chapter 37 Summary
Generations of Joseph. Joseph hated and rejected by his brothers. Cast into pit. Carried away by Gentiles.
Discussion Questions for Genesis, Chapter 37
- Why was Joseph Jacob's favorite son? Do you see a particular generational sin in this family? Why does the narrative turn to focus on Joseph?
- How did the brothers treat Joseph? How do you think they interacted at home and in the field? Do you think Joseph was helping his case? Why or why not?
- What was the overall theme of Joseph's dreams? Why do you think Jacob pondered the fact that Joseph had vivid dreams? When did God give visions in the past? Has God ever spoken to you through a dream? How can we tell the difference between indigestion and a vision? How can the church help?
- Joseph obeyed his father and tracked down his brothers. What did they initially discuss doing to him? Who persuaded them otherwise? What do you think was the feeling in Reuben's heart and the atmosphere during that conversation? What do you make of Reuben? Have you ever been in a tough family situation and felt uncertain about what to do? How did God give you wisdom for that situation?
- Sadly, Joseph did not find any value in his brothers' eyes until he served as a commodity. Did you know that slavery was a common practice in ancient times? What does the Bible say about human trafficking and human dignity?
- What peer pressure did Reuben face when he found Joseph was gone? What should he have done? Do you think this was an "impossible situation" for him? Do you notice some similarities between Reuben and Pontius Pilate? List some. What are some general, helpful practices for us in these situations?
- What consequences arose because of the brothers' decision? How did it impact their family? Do you think they regretted taking the silver? How would this story have ended if Joseph had stayed with his family?
- Who or what has thrown you into a "pit" in life? What did you do in those seasons of despair or hardship? How did God help you? Have you found a way to forgive (even if not forget) what those individuals have done to you?
- Name some of the worst things that can happen today in our world. Have you heard stories of God bringing about good through those circumstances? Where and how? If not, read the story of Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, and their families.
- Did you know that human trafficking is thriving as an industry today? How can we pray for those in slavery? How should we help? List some ways that the church can and should be helping to address these issues. Pray about acting on one or two of them.
Key Words/Phrase
Envied, v. 11.
Characters
Jacob, Joseph, Reuben, Judah, Potiphar.
Strong Verse(s)
4
