Genesis 37:12-36

We constantly compare our life experiences. We compare this year to last year in everything from finances to weather to success. We look at events in people’s lives and compare them with others. Today, people compare Jesse Owens with Michael Johnson, and Mary Lou Retton with Dominique Moceanu. (This sermon was preached August 4, 1996)

When it comes to people in the Bible, we can make comparisons too. There is a danger to avoid in carrying some comparisons too far. For example, we will see comparisons between Jesus and Joseph, but we must always stop short, because no one has done, or could do, what Jesus has done for us.

• The plot
  • based on a misunderstanding of purpose
    • Joseph was not seeking to be their leader
    • Jesus commented, “I must be about my Father’s business.” (Luke 2:49)
  • based on the bias against them
    • Joseph was a hated brother
    • Jesus was a supposed blasphemer
• The price
  • Joseph
    • 20 pieces of silver
  • Jesus
    • 30 pieces of silver
  • Price of slaves
• The plan
  • God had a purpose in the lives of both these men
    • Joseph, not to destroy him but to use him mightily
    • Jesus, to fulfill the promises

We sometimes have to live with the scheming of persons who do not understand us or dislike us. Joseph, like Jesus, shows us we can live through those circumstances because God has a plan and purpose for everything that comes our way. Joseph saved his people, and a mighty nation was developed. Jesus died to save the world, and every person who trusts in Him can experience that life abundantly.