Category: Genesis

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He is Greater: Joseph and His Brothers

Summary of my sermon, based on Genesis 50:15-21. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on July 16, 2023.

The story of Joseph and his brothers, found in the Old Testament, explores themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and redemption. This narrative encompasses Joseph’s early life, his trials and triumphs, and his eventual reconciliation with his family in Egypt. Today, we delve into Joseph’s remarkable journey and reflect on God’s sovereignty in his life, drawing valuable lessons for our own walk of faith.

Summary of Joseph’s Story

Joseph, favored by his father Jacob, incites jealousy and hatred among his brothers. Betrayed and sold into slavery, he finds himself in Egypt, facing numerous challenges and trials. Although Joseph gains favor with Potiphar, he is later unjustly imprisoned. In prison, he interprets dreams for Pharaoh’s servants, leading to his interpretation of Pharaoh’s dreams about an impending famine. Impressed by Joseph’s wisdom, Pharaoh appoints him as second-in-command over Egypt.

When famine strikes, Joseph’s brothers seek grain in Egypt, prompting a series of tests that ultimately lead to his revelation of identity and reconciliation with his family. They settle in Egypt, and Joseph’s father Jacob blesses his sons, including Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. Joseph’s forgiveness and grace towards his brothers mirror the love and grace displayed by Jesus Christ, offering redemption to all who believe.

The Sovereignty of God

Joseph’s story beautifully portrays God’s sovereignty, as Colossians 1:16-17 reminds us that all things were created through Him and for Him, and in Him, all things hold together. Likewise, Romans 8:27-28 assures us that all things work together for good for those who love God, according to His purpose. Joseph’s story may have a happy ending, but it reminds us of the years of struggle he endured before witnessing God’s resolution.

Applying Joseph’s Lessons to Our Lives

  1. Trust in God’s Plan and Timing: Jeremiah 29:11-13 encourages us to seek God wholeheartedly, trusting in His plans for our welfare and future. Like Joseph, we should lean on who God is amid uncertainty, seeking Him rather than merely seeking relief.
  2. Use Your Gifts for God’s Glory: Joseph’s story emphasizes the significance of using our God-given gifts for His glory. His administrative skills proved vital during the years of plenty and famine, leading to the preservation of many lives. Let us also serve faithfully in the tasks God entrusts to us.
  3. Spread God’s Love and Grace: Joseph’s forgiveness and reconciliation with his brothers teach us to extend God’s love and grace to others. His story points to Jesus Christ, who offers redemption and forgiveness to all who believe in Him.

Joseph’s journey from adversity to triumph serves as a poignant reminder of God’s unyielding sovereignty and His ability to work all things together for good. We can apply the lessons from his life by trusting in God’s plan and timing, using our gifts for His glory, and spreading His love and grace to others. Like Joseph, let us embrace God’s purpose for our lives and find hope in His sovereign hand, knowing that He is always at work, even amidst our struggles. May we live faithfully, seeking God wholeheartedly, and reflecting Christ’s love and grace to the world.

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He is Greater: Rachel and Leah

Summary of my sermon, based on Genesis 29:15-30. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on July 9, 2023.

In this sermon, we delve into the intriguing story of Jacob, the grandson of Abraham, and his encounter with Laban. As we explore Jacob’s idolatry and Laban’s deception, we witness the consequences of placing earthly desires above God. Join us on this journey of disappointment and God’s unwavering faithfulness.

Jacob’s Idolatry of Rachel

From the very beginning, Jacob’s infatuation with Rachel reveals his idolatrous tendencies. His superficial love for her and his willingness to sacrifice seven years of labor reflect his misplaced priorities. The narrative highlights Jacob’s lust and idolization of Rachel, setting the stage for Laban’s deceptive plan.

Laban’s Deception – Disappointment from Idols

Laban, seizing the opportunity presented by Jacob’s infatuation, employs a scheme to deceive him. Although Jacob was known for his cunning, Laban manages to exploit his idolatrous desires. We observe the disappointment that accompanies idolatry, as Jacob’s dreams of marrying Rachel are shattered when he discovers that Laban has tricked him into marrying Leah.

Jacob’s willingness to offer seven years of labor for Rachel demonstrates the extent of his idolatry. Laban, recognizing Jacob’s intense affection for Rachel, capitalizes on this and accepts the deal without negotiation. Jacob’s devotion is so profound that the years of labor seem like mere days in his pursuit of Rachel.

The climactic moment arrives when Jacob is deceived into marrying Leah instead of Rachel. Laban’s refusal to confirm the agreement with Jacob foreshadows his deceptive plan. The consequences of Jacob’s idolatry and Laban’s deceit lay the foundation for a dramatic family saga filled with favoritism, rivalries, and personal struggles.

Despised and Rejected

As the narrative unfolds, Leah, the unloved wife, experiences rejection and disdain. Despite her pain, she gives birth to several children, including Judah. Interestingly, Judah becomes a key figure in biblical history, eventually leading to the Lion of the tribe of Judah, Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53:3-5 beautifully depicts the sufferings and ultimate redemption brought about by Jesus, the one who was despised and rejected.

Jacob’s idolatry of Rachel and Laban’s deceptive actions serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the dangers of misplaced priorities and the disappointments that follow. True fulfillment can only be found in God, not in earthly desires or idols. May we learn from Jacob’s story and strive to keep God at the center of our lives, experiencing His unwavering faithfulness and avoiding the pitfalls of idolatry.

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He is Greater: God’s Promises to Abraham

Summary of my sermon, based on Genesis 12:1-9. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on July 2, 2023.

In our exploration of Biblical Theology, we delve into the story of Abraham and the promises God made to him. We witness the calling of Abraham, the difficulty of obedience, and the glorious promises that unfold. This blog post uncovers the significance of God’s calling, the challenges faced by Abraham, and the profound impact of these promises on our lives today.

God’s Difficult Calling

Genesis 12:1 reveals God’s call to Abraham to leave his country, kindred, and father’s house. As a church with a majority of immigrants, we can empathize with the challenges Abraham faced in leaving everything behind. However, this obedience does not save us; rather, it tangibly exercises our faith and showcases our dependence on God.

God’s Glorious Promises

Genesis 12:2-3 outlines the promises God made to Abraham. The first promise is to make Abraham’s name great, which contrasts with the builders of the Tower of Babel who sought to make a name for themselves. God’s promise assures Abraham of eternal significance. The second promise is to make Abraham a great nation, despite the initial obstacle of his childlessness. This promise reminds us of God’s power and faithfulness.

The global promise in Genesis 12:3 carries immense importance. Through Abraham, all families on earth will be blessed. This promise points to the ultimate blessing that comes through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:3 emphasizes the spiritual blessings we receive in Christ, including salvation by grace through faith. God’s promise to Abraham directly affects us, highlighting the magnitude of this covenant.

Abraham’s Obedience and Faith

Abraham’s obedience and faith are essential aspects of this narrative. Genesis 15:6 states that Abraham’s faith was counted as righteousness. However, his journey was not without struggles. He attempted to help God’s promise through actions such as taking Lot with him and engaging with Hagar. These instances remind us that the road of faith can be challenging, but God’s promises remain steadfast.

The story of Abraham teaches us about obedience, faith, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. Like Abraham, we are called to exercise obedience, knowing that our salvation is based on faith in Jesus Christ, not our works. As we navigate the rocky road of faith, we can take solace in the unwavering faithfulness of God. Just as God fulfilled His promises to Abraham, we can trust that He will fulfill His promises to us.

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He is Greater: The Tower of Babel

Summary of my sermon, bassed on Genesis 11:1-9. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on June 25, 2023.

Biblical Theology encompasses the diverse and unified nature of the Bible, recognizing its collection of 66 books written by approximately 40 authors over a span of 1500 years in different languages. While the Bible’s various books offer unique perspectives, genres, and purposes, they all contribute to the overarching story of Salvation, known as “Redemptive History.” Through typology and tension, Biblical Theology seeks to uncover symbols, figures, and events that point to Jesus Christ, creating a longing that can only be fulfilled by Him. This blog post explores the Tower of Babel story, revealing its underlying desires, God’s response, and how it relates to our lives today.

Typology is a concept within Biblical Theology where individuals, places, objects, or events in the Old Testament function as symbols that point to Jesus Christ. For instance, the bronze serpent in Numbers 21 serves as a typological representation of Jesus, providing salvation and healing when the people looked upon it. Tension, on the other hand, signifies a longing that can only be fulfilled by Christ. It arises from symbols, individuals, objects, or events that don’t explicitly point to Jesus but create a yearning for His redemptive work.

Desire for Security

The Tower of Babel narrative in Genesis 11:1-4 introduces two fundamental desires. The first desire revolves around security, illustrated by the people’s resolution to build a city. Although desiring security isn’t inherently wrong, the problem arises when we seek ultimate security outside of Christ. True security comes from placing our faith in Jesus, recognizing that every good and perfect gift comes from Him (James 1:17). While we embrace God’s provision, we must adopt a posture of faith and become good stewards of His blessings. Tithing can also serve as an act of faith, demonstrating our trust in God’s security by giving back a portion of what He has blessed us with.

Desire for Praise

The second desire present in the Tower of Babel story is the longing for praise. The people aimed to build a tower that would reach the heavens and make a name for themselves. We can all relate to this desire for recognition and praise, but it becomes problematic when it leads to pride. Pride opposes God, and He extends grace to the humble (James 4:6). The Tower of Babel’s narrative serves as a reminder of the futility of pride, as even a tower reaching the heavens fails to impress God. Recognizing that God alone deserves our praise can help us navigate the fine line between courageous initiative and pride.

God’s Response: Judgement and Scattering

God’s response to the Tower of Babel reveals His opposition to pride and His desire for humility. In Genesis 11:5-7, God “came down” to see the city and tower as a symbolic act emphasizing the insignificance of human pride. While humanity can achieve great things, God confused their languages and scattered them across the earth. This scattering and confusion still persist today, manifesting in diverse languages, nation-states, and conflicts. However, amidst this judgment, God’s grace and deliverance remain available to us.

The Tower of Babel narrative creates a tension that can only be resolved in Christ. Revelation 7:9-11 beautifully portrays the unity of diverse nations, tribes, peoples, and languages before the throne of God, worshipping the Lamb. GCF Toronto embraces this vision, seeking to make disciples of all nations and teaching them to observe Christ’s commands (Matthew 28:19-20). Through our actions, we strive to reflect the unity and diversity found in Biblical Theology, acknowledging Jesus Christ as the ultimate source of security, praise, and salvation.

Understanding Biblical Theology allows us to appreciate the diverse yet unified nature of the Bible. The story of the Tower of Babel highlights the dangers of seeking security and praise outside of Christ. While the desire for security is natural, our true security lies in Jesus, and we can practice this by adopting a posture of faith and becoming good stewards. Likewise, the desire for praise must be channeled towards God alone, avoiding pride and embracing humility. As we engage with Biblical Theology, we recognize the tension created by symbols and longings that find their resolution in Jesus Christ, leading us to embrace His grace and share His love with all nations.

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He is Greater: Noah’s Ark

Summary of my sermon, based on Genesis 7:1-5. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on June 4, 2023.

Biblical Theology, as we practice it today, encompasses the understanding that the Bible is both diverse and unified. It consists of 66 separate books, written by around 40 authors over a thousand years, in three different languages. While each book contributes to the overarching story of salvation, we also employ typology and tension to uncover deeper meanings and connections within the text. Typology involves symbols and figures in the Old Testament that point to Christ, while tension creates a longing that can only be fulfilled by Jesus. We will delve into the story of Noah’s Ark and uncover its profound theological implications.

The Seriousness of Sin

Genesis 6:5-7 presents a sobering portrayal of the wickedness that consumed humanity: “The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart. So the Lord said, ‘I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.'”

This description of humanity’s sinfulness still holds true today. Turn on the news, and we witness the pervasive evil and darkness that plagues our world. It is crucial to recognize the seriousness of sin, as it not only destroys society but also directly opposes the holiness of God. Scripture, such as Psalm 11:5-7, emphasizes God’s righteousness and His hatred for wickedness. Sin creates a separation between us and God, hindering our ability to experience His presence and hear His voice (Isaiah 59:2).

Righteousness in the Midst of Evil

Genesis 6:8 reveals a remarkable statement about Noah: “But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” How can Noah be considered righteous when Scripture declares that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23)? The answer lies in Hebrews 11:7, which explains that Noah’s righteousness came by faith. Noah’s righteousness was not based on his own actions but on his unwavering trust in God. This aligns with the concept of righteousness in the Old Testament, where faith alone is the means of salvation.

Saved from the Flood but not from Sin

Genesis 7:1-5 describes how Noah and his family were saved from the flood. They entered the ark as the rain poured down, and they remained inside until the floodwaters receded. While Noah became a type of Christ, representing salvation, he was still an imperfect version. This imperfection is evident in Genesis 9:20-21, where Noah’s drunkeness reveal his fallibility. Sin remained, highlighting the need for a perfect Savior who could fully redeem humanity.

The Coming Judgment of Sin

The story of Noah’s ark ultimately points to the salvation that Jesus provides. 1 Peter 3:18-20 highlights the connection between Noah’s ark and the redemptive work of Christ. Just as Noah and his family were brought safely through the waters, Jesus suffered for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring us to God. The wrath that God displayed in the flood is redirected to Christ on the cross. Romans 5:8-9 beautifully expresses this truth, stating, “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.”

The Depths of Redemption

The story of Noah’s Ark holds profound theological significance beyond its familiar Sunday school portrayal. It reveals the seriousness of sin, the possibility of righteousness through faith, and the need for a perfect Savior to bring salvation. Noah’s ark becomes a symbol of Christ’s redemptive work, as He rescues us from the wrath of God by His sacrifice on the cross. As we explore the depths of this narrative, we are reminded of the gravity of sin, the power of faith, and the hope found in our Savior, Jesus Christ. May we embrace the complete message of Noah’s Ark and proclaim the transformative power of God’s redeeming love to the world.