This week, we will finish our reading of Genesis, covering chapters 48-50. This section includes Jacob’s final days and his blessings to his sons. With Genesis finished, we will move on to a short section of the Psalms.


Discussion Questions:

As you read this week, here are some questions to help you explore the truths contained in these chapters.

• What is the significance of Jacob claiming Joseph’s two sons as his own? (Gen. 48:5)

• What led to Jacob’s negative blessing toward Simeon and Levi? (Gen. 49:5-7) And that ended up happening to their tribes?

• Why were Joseph’s brothers still concerned about what he might do to them now that their father had died? (Gen. 50:15-18)

• What is the significance of comparing a righteous person to a tree planted near water? (Psalm 1:1-3)

• How does God respond to those who reject his sovereignty? (Psalm 1:4-6)




Some Answers to Last Week's Questions:

•. Why did Joseph cry when he saw his brothers, especially Benjamin? (Gen. 43:30) – He had been separated from his family for over 20 years. It was a very emotional experience for him. Especially to see his full brother, the one he was most likely closest to.

•. What might have caused the change in Judah between the time Joseph was sold and he thought Benjamin might be lost? (Gen. 37:26-27, 44:32-34) – Seeing his father’s enduring grief over the loss of Joseph likely had an impact. And his own loss of two sons may have helped him to better appreciate what Jacob would go through with the loss of a second son.

•. What assurance did Joseph give his terrified brothers? (Gen. 45:3-5) – He knew that God had sent him there for a reason, to save their lives. So it made no sense that he would punish them for what they had done.

•. What assurance did God give Jacob before he left Canaan for Egypt? (Gen. 46:1-4) – To not be afraid to go. The promise of land still stood. But the time in Egypt would be a time of great growth for his family. Plus, he would get to see Joseph again.

•. Why might Jacob have wanted to be buried in the family tomb rather than Egypt? (Gen. 47:29-31) – Because it was home and with his ancestors. He wanted to be with them in whatever came after death.


Helpful Resources:


• Rooted Facebook Group for online sharing and further exploration 


• Bible Project Old Testament overview videos 

• Bible Gateway, a Bible app with many translations and some other free helps

• A Clay Jar Devotionals