11:21
In Genesis 49 we read of Jacob blessing all his sons, though some of the blessings were less than desirable. In 48:8-22 he specifically blesses Joseph’s sons. Jacob blessed the younger rather than the older one (Gen 48:14). The emphasis of the writer here, however, is on the future blessing, the looking forward. Neither Abraham, Isaac or Jacob received the blessing in their lifetime, but they were not disappointed. They looked ahead, and saw the blessing coming on future generations. They did not doubt God’s promise at all. The Old Testament, from beginning to end, is a book that looks forwards. Therefore the Hebrews should definitely not be people who looked backwards.
11:22
Next up in the list is Joseph. The aspect of his life that the writer draws attention to is not one that we normally pay much attention to. We normally focus on his dreams, being sold into slavery, subsequent imprisonment and eventual elevation to prime minister. The writer is focused on looking forward, and showing that all the Old Testament heroes were looking forward. Joseph looked forward. When he was close to death while in Egypt he gave instructions that his bones be taken to the land of Israel. He saw a future for the nation (Gen 50:24,25).
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