JOSEPH’S CALLING – Genesis 37:1-11

Where are we in the book of Genesis? The 10th and final appearance of the phrase: “These are the generations” provides opportunity to situate the account of Joseph in context. The book of Genesis is structured around scene changes, turning points, or “chapter divisions” which are signaled by this phrase. Genesis 2:4 introduces this heading with reference to the creation of the heavens and earth. Every other mention tracks a family line, highlighting Noah (6:9), his sons (10:1), Shem (11:10), Terah (11:27), Ishmael (25:12), Isaac (25:19), Esau (36:1), and finally Jacob's generations (37:2) in our text today. By analyzing patterns in these lineage references, scholars have consolidated 4 major movements or eras of focus in the book. The first from Adam to Terah, the second recording Abraham's legacy, third: Isaac & Jacob, and the final begins in our text chronicling the biography of Joseph which continues through the end of the book. The major theme of redemptive hope through the covenant son continues in the stunning events of Joseph's life and calling. In context we understand the phrase: “these are the generations” to refer to the purposes of God unfolding in time, creation, and lineage that serve to reveal His character and further His plan of salvation for sinners. As creation served as a theater for His creative glory, so the covenant family line serves as a theater to feature His glory in re-creation. This through-line tying the book together is not limited to Genesis. Thousands of years later, the era of messianic fulfillment inaugurated with the incarnate covenant Son will be introduced in the same way. (Mat 1:1) opens declaring: “the book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham.” Today we encounter the history of this moment in the life and times of Joseph, a figure in Old Testament history preparing us to recognize the Messiah yet to come.