Shammah Temple Fellowship: Sermon of December 22, 2024
By Theophile Ndayiziga
Theme: The story of Joseph as a harbinger of the coming of Jesus, the Savior
Reference scriptures: Genesis 37:1-36
Joseph’s life is a testament that God’s plan cannot be stopped. He was very young, but had God’s favor and his siblings were jealous of him. Telling father and siblings his dreams, the jealousy against him grew even more. They couldn’t stand to hear how he would be the one all of his people would bow to.
So, how is Joseph’s story a preview of Jesus’ work?
- Joseph’s honesty and humility is an example of Jesus’ attitude
Joseph was reliable to his father, when he sent him out to see his siblings with the flock. He accepted to travel alone in a dangerous place, with possible scenarios of him being hurt by wild animals from the forest. Joseph cared for his brothers and father’s flock. He pursued them with love and humility.
Jesus, on the other hand, accepted His father’s mission to come here on earth. He didn’t care about potential dangers that were there.
- The hate against Joseph by his siblings is compared to that against Jesus
Joseph’s siblings plotted against him and even planned to kill him. They were not satisfied by their parent, and wanted to compare with Joseph. However, just like they wanted to kill Jesus to stop God’s plan, it couldn’t stop God’s plan even for Joseph. God guards His own plan so jealously, He always knows how to safeguard it and keep it safe, no matter what.
- Joseph’s people would bow down to him, same as nations bow down to Jesus
God’s plan was to elevate Joseph, 11th child of his father, even though he looked so small and insignificant among his siblings. Physical eyes could not see and comprehend the truth behind it. However, God saw beyond the obvious, he saw him as a very influential leader who eventually saved millions of people hunger and led over nations.
Jesus’ way was also to be, despite having been born from a small village and a non-rich family, save the whole mankind. All the knees bowed down to Jesus, all the tongues said He is the king, the king of kings.
In short, Joseph’s story is not a historical count of events, but a reminder of the work of God to save the world through Jesus Christ. Jesus’ humility despite His Godliness should inspire us. Although he was hated and plotted against, God’s plan stood and was fulfilled, the very way God had designed it. God loves you, and will not rest until his promises to your life happen, as long as you stay in the right path.
