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Jacob Returns to Bethel (4-21-24)

In preparation for his arrival at Bethel, Jacob calls his family to purify themselves, and God reaff

April 21, 2024 • Dr. Jim Glass • Genesis 35:1–15

Failing to follow through with God's instructions and his own promises, Jacob had delayed his return to Bethel by stopping in Shechem. When two of Jacob's sons horribly avenge their sister's assault, he feared for his family. The Lord intervened by calling Jacob and his family to give up their idols and purify themselves, and their response had a powerful effect on the people around them. Jacob finally arrives at Bethel where the Lord reaffirms his name change and the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and to Jacob himself.

Joseph is Reconciled with His Brothers (5-19-24)

May 19, 2024 • Dr. Jim Glass • Genesis

After Judah's heart-rending plea for his brother, Benjamin, Joseph recognizes the repentance of his brothers and reveals himself to them. He explains that, even though they had sold him into slavery, it was God Who brought him to Egypt to save Jacob's family. He tells his brothers to tell their father what has happened to him and that they are to move the family to Goshen to provide for them during the famine. As Joseph forgives and his brothers demonstrate their repentance, he and his brothers are wonderfully reconciled.

Pharaoh's Dreams (5-12-24)

May 12, 2024 • Dr. Jim Glass • Genesis 41:33–37, Genesis 41:14–20

The Pharaoh has two dreams about seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. The dreams are so explicit and real that he demands an interpretation—an interpretation that his wise men could not provide. Pharaoh's cupbearer recalls how Joseph had interpreted his own dream, so Joseph is called to interpret Pharaoh's dream. He confesses that he can't; only God can. The Lord provides him with the interpretation and the solution to the years of famine. Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of the plan to save the people and made him the second-in-command in all Egypt.

Joseph and Potiphar's Wife (5-5-24)

May 5, 2024 • Dr. Jim Glass • Genesis 39:7–21

As a servant in Potiphar's home, Joseph excels and is given the overall responsibility of his affairs. When Potiphar's wife tries to seduce Joseph, he steadfastly refuses her advances until one day she gets him alone and makes one more attempt. Joseph flees, but leaves behind his robe that Potiphar's wife had held onto. She accuses Joseph of an attempt to assault her, and her husband has him placed in prison.