Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany

Sermon Text: Genesis 45:3-8a,15

Other readings: Romans 12:14-21, Luke 6:27-38

 

1. Read the Second Lesson for this Sunday from Romans 12:14-21. Well before the Apostle Paul wrote those words, Joseph’s faith was putting them into practice. In what ways did Joseph do that?

 

2. In the sermon, Pastor Bauer said that sometimes it can be hardest to forgive ourselves. In which verse does Joseph anticipate that struggle, and what does he do to comfort his brothers?

 

3. What conditions did Joseph put on his forgiveness? What are applications for us?

 

4. “[Joseph] kissed all his brothers” (v. 15). This is still a cultural practice over in the Mediterranean world. It showed in a close, physical way that all was right between Joseph and his brothers. We may not give others kisses on the cheek, but what are some ways our culture shows forgiveness and reconciliation through physical touch?

 

5. What Joseph does in this account is what Martin Luther described in his Small Catechism in the section on The Keys. Read Martin Luther’s explanation below and then answer this question: what other Old Testament story displays believers forgiving someone?

 

First: What is the use of the keys? The use of the keys is that special power and right which Christ gave to his church on earth: to forgive the sins of penitent sinners but refuse forgiveness to the impenitent as long as they do not repent.

Where is this written? The holy evangelist John writes in chapter 20, “[Jesus] breathed on [his disciples] and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.

 

1. There are many ways! Joseph sympathized with them (Romans 12:15). Even though he was a powerful government official, he associated with his brothers who just wanted to buy food (v. 16). He didn’t repay evil (v. 17) but instead took the first step towards peace because he had the opportunity to (v. 18).

 

2. See Genesis 45:5. Joseph comforts his brothers by telling them God found a way to turn the evil act into something beneficial for many people.

 

3. Joseph put no conditions on his forgiveness. None! We shouldn’t either. God doesn’t put conditions on our forgiveness. He doesn’t say, “I’ll only forgive you if you reach this level of sorrow or repent this well.” He forgives unconditionally. Therefore, we forgive unconditionally.

 

4. Answers may vary, but in our upper Midwest culture, people might shake hands, give a pat on the back, and/or hug. That can be a powerful way of reinforcing the words of forgiveness.

 

5. There are multiple answers. Esau seemed to forgive Jacob for stealing his birthright (Genesis chapter 33). Moses plead for the Israelites after the golden calf (Exodus chapter 32). Nathan pronounced forgiveness to King David after his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel chapter 12).