Genesis 46:28-34 And he sent Judah before him to Joseph, to direct his face to Goshen; and they came into the land of Goshen.… I. A DIVINE PROMISE. 1. The occasion on which it was given. Jacob having heard that Joseph was alive, was anxious to see his son once more. Felt he could hardly leave the promised land except he had Divine permission. He went as far as he dared — to Beer-sheba, in the extreme south, and there offered sacrifice unto the God of his father. Then it was, in a vision, that the promise was spoken. Divine mercy and condescension, responding to the father's desire. "Like as a father pitieth his children," &c. 2. The nature of it. (1) Confirmation of old promise (ver. 3.) Jacob had not forgotten it. But might not going down to Egypt prevent its fulfilment? (2) Promise of Divine presence and protection. "I will go," &c. (ver. 4). (3) Promise that the father shall see his long-lost son. 3. Practical effect of it. In the strength of the encouragement it imparted, Jacob, 130 years old, sets out for Egypt. II. A FATHER'S MESSENGER. Judah. He had taken a chief part in the separating of father and son, and we now see him most active in bringing about the meeting. Those who have done wrong may not be able to undo the wrong they have done, but should, if possible, make reparation. Recall the activity of Judah all through the history. His intercession for Benjamin, &c. There seems to have been a radical change in him. III. A HAPPY MEETING. Jacob and Joseph. Some twenty-two years had passed since they had seen each other. It was no prodigal's return. Jacob would have been glad to see Joseph under any circumstances, but how great his pride at finding him thus exalted. Jacob, as a God-fearing man, had no need to be ashamed of the progress of his son. IV. AN HONEST COUNCILLOR. Joseph to his brethren. They were not to disguise their calling; although the Egyptians abandoned it. They were to begin in their new home on the right principles, were to be true and honest. How many resort to unmanly concealments of humble extraction and lowly avocations when away from home. Honesty always right, and therefore the best policy. In this case the effect is evident. The Israelites were located by themselves. Their exodus the more easy and practicable when the time came. Had they been spread through the country, their collection and departure had been most difficult. Learn: 1. To seek God's guidance in all our movements. 2. To look for the fulfilment of promise in an honest obedience. 3. Endeavour to repair results of past sins. Restitution and reparation. 4. Let conduct in absence of parents be such as to render the meeting happy. 5. Begin life on right principles. Honour, truth, honesty. (J. G. Gray.) Parallel Verses KJV: And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to direct his face unto Goshen; and they came into the land of Goshen. |
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