Judah Steps Up



Genesis 44:1-45:2 
http://www.esvbible.org/Genesis 44:1-45:2

The story of Joseph and his brothers finally reaches a climax as all is revealed by Joseph. Through a cunning plan Joseph has been used as God’s instrument to bring the brothers to their knees. Through the mouth of Judah there is confession of the fact that God has revealed their sin to them and they are fully aware of their guilt. At this point, Joseph brings grace and comfort as he reveals his true identity as their long lost brother; twenty-two years of separation is ended and a family is united.

With the resolution of these events we finally see Judah, the ancient ancestor of Jesus, step up and take charge of the impossible situation Joseph has brought upon the brothers. Judah is the one who makes a compelling case for mercy as he tells the story of what has happened to his family as a result of coming to Egypt for food. Judah pleads with the only thing he has left – the life of his father. This plea works and Joseph is moved to tears. Imagine the hearts of the brothers as they discover that what they believed had been the permanent disposal of Joseph two decades earlier was now undone. While they had treated the life of Joseph with disregard, God had protected him and in fact blessed him. This is one of those Biblical scenes that truly has great impact. You cannot help but be drawn into such an emotionally charged drama. It took 22 years, but finally the brothers are forcefully struck with terror over their sin.

Judah calls it correctly as he finally steps up as the family’s leader. He rightfully confesses the sin of the group and falls upon the “mercy of the court” – in this case, Joseph. Here we find that Joseph is a “type” of Christ. He graciously forgives the brothers and brings about reconciliation. That is what Christ does for us. When we throw ourselves upon the mercy of the court, we are received with open arms and tears of joy; grace is chosen and bitterness forgotten. The story ends well for all of us because Christ has granted our forgiveness because of His shed blood. As the brothers are absolved of their betrayal 22 years earlier so we too are forgiven for our lifetime of sin.

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