How can we apply Joseph's example of respect for authority in our lives? Setting the Scene: Joseph’s Respect on Display • Genesis 50:7: “So Joseph went up to bury his father, and all the servants of Pharaoh— the elders of his household and all the elders of the land of Egypt— went with him.” • Joseph is second in command, yet he gladly submits to Pharaoh’s authority: – He asks permission to leave (50:4-6). – He honors Pharaoh’s officials by inviting them to participate. – He represents God’s people well before a pagan court. • His respect flows from confidence that every human authority is ultimately placed by God (cf. Genesis 45:8). What Joseph’s Actions Teach Us About Authority • Respect is proactive—Joseph seeks approval before acting. • Respect is public—his attitude influences “all the elders of Egypt.” • Respect is consistent—whether Joseph is a slave, a prisoner, or a governor, his posture toward authority never shifts. • Respect does not compromise holiness—he obeys Pharaoh without violating God’s command to honor his father. Walking It Out Today Home • Children: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Ephesians 6:1-2). • Adults: speak well of parents, even when disagreeing, reflecting Joseph’s tender care for Jacob. Workplace • “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything…with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord” (Colossians 3:22). • Arrive on time, finish tasks, and talk respectfully about supervisors, knowing “it is the Lord Christ you are serving” (3:24). Church • Honor pastors and elders who “watch over your souls” (Hebrews 13:17). • Support decisions made by leadership when they align with Scripture, even if personal preferences differ. Civic Life • “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God” (Romans 13:1). • Pay taxes, pray for officials (1 Timothy 2:1-2), and engage respectfully in public discourse. When Authorities Err • Joseph served Pharaoh yet never bowed to Egyptian idols—loyal without sinning. • Follow Daniel’s model (Daniel 6): obey God first, but maintain a respectful tone toward human rulers. Cross-References that Reinforce the Lesson • 1 Peter 2:13-17—submit “for the Lord’s sake.” • Proverbs 21:1—“The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD.” • Titus 3:1-2—be “ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle.” Practical Steps for the Week Ahead 1. Identify one authority figure in each sphere (home, work, church, civic). 2. Send a note or offer a word of thanks, affirming the value of their role. 3. Choose one task you normally resist and complete it promptly, “working for the Lord.” 4. Pray daily that God would guide and bless those who lead, trusting His sovereignty just as Joseph did. |
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