Dreams, Declaration, Deliverance - Genesis
Read the summary of the Sunday sermon: Although Joseph is still in jail, he displays his faithfulness to God’s work in his life by faithfully interpreting the dreams of Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker, and eventually the dreams of Pharaoh himself. Because Joseph speaks God’s truth into the confusion and trouble of those around him, he not only is released from jail, but also delivers Egypt from a devastating famine. It is through this deliverance that God remains faithful to his promise to preserve his people.
Read: Genesis 40:1-8, 20-23 41:1-16, 25-28, 38-41
Discussion Questions:
Have you ever had a dream of a future event in your life that actually happened? If so, what was that experience like?
In the Bible, God often speaks to people through dreams. Why do you think this is the case?
Joseph is given the ability to discern what God is saying through dreams. What do you think discernment should look like in our context?
Do you think you would have the courage to tell the baker about the tragic interpretation of his dream (Gen. 40:16-18)? Why or why not?
How does Joseph’s ability to interpret these dreams display the wisdom and power of God?
Joseph waited at least two years (if not more) to be released from prison and made a governor of Egypt. What does this tell us about the need for patience with God’s work?
How can we as Christians use our positions of influence and authority for the spread of the gospel and for human flourishing (Gen. 41:47-49, 53-57).
How does this story point us to the person and work of Jesus?
Prayer: Take some time to pray over the answers discussed in question #7, asking that God would give you the opportunity to spread the good news of Jesus in the places where you carry influence and authority.
