Moses uses the literary device of repetition to begin the story of Joseph. "These are the generations" is used 11 times in the book of Genesis. In the story of Joseph, it serves three purposes: 1) Indicates a new section. The story's central character changes from Jacob to Joseph. 2) Serves notice that the earlier themes of Genesis continue. Specifically, Genesis 1:28 – be fruitful, fill the earth (land), take dominion – and 3:15 – a declaration of war, the promise of the Seed, and the covenant of grace. These doctrines are threads woven throughout the story of Joseph.
It begins with a 17-year-old working in the family business, shepherding a portion of Jacob's flock. On one particular day, something happens — something evil that his brothers have done. Loyal to his father, he tells him what is going on. Many commentators castigate Joseph for either misrepresenting or lying about his brothers or that he had not followed Matthew 18, confronting them before going to his father. Moses, however, never indicts Joseph for any sin. Instead, the guilt points toward the brothers.
The brothers are only part of the problem. Jacob is also culpable for what is to come. We are told – bluntly, painfully – that he loves Joseph more than his other children, including his only daughter! He then unwisely demonstrates his favoritism by giving Joseph an expensive coat, which symbolizes his sin. He has broken the Lord's command not to show partiality and, as Ephesians 6:4 warns all parents, thereby provoke their children. Predictably, the brothers begin to hate Joseph, allowing a root of bitterness to grow.
And it only gets worse when someone has a dream. |