How does Genesis 37:13 demonstrate Jacob's trust in Joseph's responsibility? Setting the Scene Genesis 37 opens with the routine work of Jacob’s family—tending flocks. Into that ordinary backdrop verse 13 drops one decisive conversation: “Israel said to Joseph, ‘Your brothers are grazing the flocks near Shechem. Come, I will send you to them.’ ‘I’m ready,’ Joseph replied.” (Genesis 37:13) Jacob’s Directive in Genesis 37:13 • Jacob (called “Israel” here) initiates the mission. • He singles out Joseph—still only seventeen (Genesis 37:2). • The destination is Shechem, roughly fifty miles north, the place where Simeon and Levi had recently slaughtered the men of the city (Genesis 34). Danger still lingered there. • Joseph’s immediate answer—“I’m ready”—shows obedience, but the very sending shows Jacob’s confidence first. Why This Command Shows Trust • Relies on Joseph’s discernment: Jacob entrusts him to assess the brothers’ welfare and the flock’s condition. • Expects an accurate report: verse 14 makes clear Jacob wants Joseph to “bring word back.” Jacob believes Joseph will tell the truth, as he did earlier when reporting their misconduct (Genesis 37:2). • Counts on personal integrity: Joseph will travel alone through territory still hostile to Jacob’s household (see Genesis 34:30). A careless or unreliable son would never be sent. • Delegates a shepherd’s duty: guarding flocks was vital economics. Handing oversight—even briefly—to Joseph underlines confidence in his capability. Joseph’s Proven Track Record Jacob’s past interactions confirm why he feels safe sending Joseph: 1. Faithful Witness – Genesis 37:2 shows Joseph bringing an honest (though unfavorable) report about the brothers. 2. Character Shaped by Covenant Home – Joseph was raised hearing promises given to Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 28:13-15), molding a conscience Jacob could trust. 3. Responsiveness – His “I’m ready” echoes the willing responses of earlier obedient servants: • Abraham: “Here I am” (Genesis 22:1) • Samuel: “Here I am” (1 Samuel 3:4) • Isaiah: “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8) Risk Factors Highlighting Jacob’s Confidence • Distance – A multi-day journey exposed Joseph to bandits, wild animals, and uncertain lodging. • Fraternal Tension – The brothers already “hated him” (Genesis 37:4). Jacob still assigns him. • Shechem’s Reputation – After the massacre, locals could retaliate against anyone linked to Jacob (Genesis 34:25-30). • Livestock Value – Flocks represented wealth. Sending Joseph meant entrusting that value to him. Each layer of risk magnifies the father’s trust: Jacob believes Joseph will act responsibly and return safely with reliable news. Parallel Examples of Trusted Sons • Jesse sends David with supplies and a report from the battlefield (1 Samuel 17:17-18). Like Joseph, David shows maturity beyond his years. • Jesus tells a parable of a father sending his son last of all (Mark 12:6). While the contexts differ, the pattern underscores a father’s highest confidence placed in a son. Applications for Today • Responsible obedience earns deeper trust—Joseph’s earlier faithfulness opened doors for greater assignments (cf. Luke 16:10). • Parents who disciple well can release children into challenging tasks, confident in God’s protection and the child’s integrity. • God often uses ordinary errands to position His people for extraordinary purposes; Joseph’s simple mission launches the chain of events leading to Egypt and eventual deliverance (Genesis 45:4-8). Genesis 37:13, then, is more than a travel command—it is Jacob’s practical endorsement of Joseph’s reliability, spotlighting a young man whose faith and character invite a father’s wholehearted trust. |
    |