The Sordid Path to the Messiah: Genesis 36-39

Today on the Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind, we explore a section of scripture that reads more like a dramatic television series than a dry historical record. Our reading covers Genesis 36 through 39, beginning with the extensive genealogy of Esau, the father of the Edomites. While many might be tempted to skim through the lists of chiefs and kings, these records establish the historical context of the nations surrounding Israel. We then shift our focus back to the family of Jacob, where we see the intense sibling rivalry that leads Joseph’s brothers to sell him into slavery in Egypt. This act of betrayal sets the stage for one of the most significant narratives of providence in the entire Bible.

A Bloodline Defined by Grace

In the midst of Joseph’s journey, the narrative takes an unexpected turn in Genesis 38 to focus on the life of Judah. This chapter is filled with difficult and even sordid events, including the wickedness of Judah’s sons and his own moral failures with his daughter-in-law, Tamar. However, the inclusion of this story is not accidental. The result of this messy union was Perez, who became a direct ancestor of Jesus Christ. This highlights a fundamental truth: God often uses the most flawed individuals to fulfill His divine purposes. He does not look for perfect people, but for those who can be part of His plan to bring redemption and grace to a broken world.

Integrity in the Face of Trials

As we return to Joseph’s story in Genesis 39, we see a stark contrast in character. Despite being sold as a slave and later falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, Joseph maintains his integrity and his commitment to God. Even when thrown into a tower house prison, the Lord remains with him, extending mercy and granting him favor with the authorities. Joseph’s story proves that external circumstances do not dictate God’s ability to bless a faithful heart. Whether in a palace or a prison, Joseph’s life was a testament to the fact that God makes all that His servants do to prosper when they remain steadfast in their faith.

The Surrendered Life of Dwight L. Moody

On this date in church history, December 22, we remember the passing of the great evangelist Dwight L. Moody in 1899. Moody was a former shoe salesman who transformed the landscape of evangelical Christianity through his simple, urgent preaching of the gospel. He famously lived by the conviction that the world had yet to see what God could do with a life fully surrendered to Him. His legacy lives on through the Moody Bible Institute and countless other ministries. Moody’s ordinary obedience resulted in an extraordinary impact, reminding us that God’s grace is available to anyone willing to say “yes” to His call.

Listen and Connect

Be sure to catch today’s episode of the Lifespring! Why Christmas show, where we look at the history behind snow as a Christmas tradition.

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