Teaching Tuesday: Bible Stories - Joseph

Series: Bible Stories
Sermon: Joseph (7.6.25)
Watch the messages HERE. 

Sunday’s sermon was a little light on what preachers and Bible teachers call “application” - taking what is presented in the scriptures and allowing it to form our thoughts and actions. It certainly had some! But, most of it was subtle and tucked in throughout the whole message, rather than a big, obvious section of the sermon called “Application!”, as it sometimes is.

So, to help supplement the story with more specific things we can think through and act on, here are seven applicable takeaways from the story of Joseph in Genesis 37-50.

Faithfulness in small things prepares us for bigger things
Key passage: Genesis 39:2-6, 22-23

Summary: Joseph was faithful in Potiphar’s house and in prison, even when no one was watching. This prepared him to lead a nation.

Application: In a world obsessed with instant success, Joseph’s story reminds us to be faithful in the small roles, jobs, and responsibilities. God sees your faithfulness even when others don’t.

God is at work even in our pain
Key passage: Genesis 50:20

Summary: Life often brings betrayal, injustice, and hardship. Joseph was betrayed by his own family, falsely accused, and forgotten in prison. Yet, God was working behind the scenes for a greater purpose - his purpose.

Application: When life doesn’t make sense—when you’re dealing with job loss, broken relationships, or suffering—God is still writing his story. Trust his providence, even when you can't trace his hand.

Forgiveness breaks generational cycles
Key passage: Genesis 45:1–15

Summary: Joseph chose to forgive the very people who destroyed his life. He weeps, embraces his brothers, and restores relationships, thus changing his family tree and the tree of the family of God forever.

Application: Our families and friendships are fractured by grudges and hurt. Joseph models radical forgiveness—something only possible through God's strength. Christians are called to be reconcilers, not score-keepers. Who do you need to forgive? Who do you need to ask for forgiveness?

God uses broken people to fulfill his plans
Key passage: Genesis 37:3-4, 18-28; 50:15-21

Summary: Joseph’s brothers were jealous, violent, and deceitful. But God still used them as part of his redemptive plan. God didn’t author their evil, but he took their evil and used it to “save many lives.”

Application: No one is too broken or sinful to be used by God. This speaks directly to those who feel disqualified because of their past. Grace rewrites stories.

Delays are not denials
Key passage: Genesis 40:23 – 41:1

Summary: Joseph was forgotten in prison for two more years after interpreting the cupbearer’s dream.

Application: We live in an impatient culture, but Joseph’s story reminds us that God’s timing is perfect. Seasons of waiting refine character and deepen trust.

God places his people in positions of influence for a purpose
Key passage: Genesis 41:38–40

Summary: Joseph went from slave to prisoner to prime minister. He didn’t use his power for revenge, but for provision and reconciliation.

Application: In whatever leadership role you hold—at work, in school, or in your community - God has placed you there to bless others and reflect his character.

Your story is part of a bigger story
Key passage: Genesis 50:22-26

Summary: Joseph’s story is not just about one man, but about preserving the family through which the Messiah would come.

Application: God is weaving your life into his larger redemptive story. Even when you don’t understand your chapter, trust the author, and play your part by allowing the Spirit to work in you and through you.

TO KNOW HIM AND MAKE HIM KNOWN!
- Pastor Brady