Topical Encyclopedia Joseph, a central figure in the Book of Genesis, is a profound example of obedience to God. His life, marked by trials and triumphs, demonstrates unwavering faith and submission to God's will, serving as an enduring model for believers.Early Life and Dreams Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Rachel, was favored by his father, which incited jealousy among his brothers. This favoritism was symbolized by the "robe of many colors" (Genesis 37:3) that Jacob gave him. Joseph's early life was marked by divine dreams, which foretold his future prominence and the subservience of his family to him. These dreams, as recorded in Genesis 37:5-11, were met with scorn and increased animosity from his brothers. Despite the hostility, Joseph remained obedient to God, sharing the dreams as they were revealed to him. Betrayal and Slavery Joseph's obedience was further tested when his brothers, driven by envy, sold him into slavery. Taken to Egypt, Joseph was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. In Potiphar's house, Joseph's steadfastness and integrity were evident. "The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man" (Genesis 39:2). His obedience to God and moral principles were tested when Potiphar's wife attempted to seduce him. Joseph's refusal, "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9), exemplifies his commitment to righteousness, even at the cost of his freedom, as he was subsequently imprisoned on false charges. Faithfulness in Adversity In prison, Joseph's obedience and faith did not waver. The Lord's favor remained with him, and he was entrusted with responsibilities by the prison warden (Genesis 39:21-23). Joseph's ability to interpret dreams, a gift from God, came to the forefront when he accurately interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker (Genesis 40). His interpretations, given credit to God, eventually led to his release and rise to power. Rise to Power and Fulfillment of Dreams Joseph's obedience culminated in his interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which foretold seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Joseph advised Pharaoh to store surplus grain during the years of plenty, a plan that saved Egypt and surrounding nations from starvation. Pharaoh recognized the divine wisdom in Joseph, appointing him as second-in-command over Egypt (Genesis 41:39-41). Reconciliation and Preservation of Israel The famine brought Joseph's brothers to Egypt, seeking food. Joseph's earlier dreams were fulfilled as his brothers bowed before him, not recognizing him. Despite the opportunity for retribution, Joseph chose forgiveness and reconciliation, revealing his identity and attributing his journey to God's providence: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20). Joseph's obedience to God facilitated the preservation of the Israelite lineage, aligning with God's covenant promises. Legacy of Obedience Joseph's life is a testament to the blessings of obedience to God. His unwavering faith, integrity, and forgiveness amidst trials exemplify a life surrendered to divine purpose. Through Joseph, God's sovereignty and faithfulness are manifest, encouraging believers to trust and obey, regardless of circumstances. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 1:24Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took to him his wife: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Obedience to God the Way to Faith in Christ. Joseph of Arimathea Progress under Obedience. Her Inability to Resist the Graces of ... God Our Guide. From Abraham to Egypt. Shewing How a Simple and Ready Obedience is the Only Means of for ... God Does all for a Soul of Goodwill. Scriptural Examples of Piety and Obedience in the Young. The Objection Taken on the Ground of the Son's Obedience is ... The Man Born Blind and Joseph of Arimathea Resources What does it mean that Jesus learned obedience by the things He suffered (Hebrews 5:8)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is obedience better than sacrifice? | GotQuestions.org What are the blessings God promised Israel for obedience? | GotQuestions.org Obedience: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Obedience to God without Faith, is Impossible Obedience to God: A Characteristic of Saints Obedience to God: Angels Engaged In Obedience to God: Better than Sacrifice Obedience to God: Blessedness of Obedience to God: Christ, an Example of Obedience to God: Confess Your Failure In Obedience to God: Exhortations To Obedience to God: Includes: Keeping his Commandments Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying Christ Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying his Law Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying his Voice Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying the Gospel Obedience to God: Includes: Submission to Higher Powers Obedience to God: Justification Obtained by That of Christ Obedience to God: Obligations To Obedience to God: Pray to be Taught Obedience to God: Prepare the Heart For Obedience to God: Punishment of Refusing Obedience to God: Resolve Upon Obedience to God: Saints Elected To Obedience to God: Saints of Rome Obedience to God: should be Constant Obedience to God: should be from the Heart Obedience to God: should be Undeviating Obedience to God: should be Unreserved Obedience to God: should Be with Willingness Obedience to God: The Wicked Refuse Obedience to God: To be Universal in the Latter Days Obedience: General Scriptures Concerning Obedience: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego Obedience: Under the Preaching of Haggai Related Terms Commandments (181 Occurrences) |
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