PURPOSE – JOSEPH’S QUEST

Week 2: Content vs. Intent – The Journey

Introduction

During this study, we will be doing a ‘deep dive’ into a scriptural passage. It is strongly encouraged that you study the passage and entire chapter ahead of the study. Also be prepared with your research tools, for example Google or your study Bible, as you will need to reference it during the study. Spend time answering and discussing each question with the intention to gain sufficient understanding to help your own private Bible study as you further explore these topics.

Study Chapters: Genesis 39-41

Pilot text

Gen 40:14-15  14 But remember me when it is well with you, and please show kindness to me; make mention of me to Pharaoh, and get me out of this house. 15 For indeed I was stolen away from the land of the Hebrews; and also I have done nothing here that they should put me into the dungeon.”

Discussion Points

Looking beyond just the content of the chapter, what can we infer about the intention behind this narration?

1. Consider Joseph’s journey since he was sold into slavery. How do you think he changed as a person since that time?
2. What do you see as the pivotal moments in Joseph’s life, those events that shaped him into becoming who he turned out to be? Were these mostly highs or lows, or a combination of both?
3. Would you describe Joseph as successful (prior to his meeting with Pharaoh)? If so, at what points and in what way?

Closing thoughts: In our journey to purpose, we often find that the process is at least as important as the product, and the journey as the destination; if not more so. Looking at Joseph’s life we can see how his character evolved and manifested through key decisions and stages in his life. Did he always get it right? Probably not. But the more he understood what was most important (identity, integrity and service to others), the closer he got to manifesting the purpose to which he had been called. Sometimes the delay is not because God wants us to suffer, but because we’re not learning the right lessons and therefore not making the right choices. So we risk finding ourselves going past the same landmarks over and over again (going round in circles), because getting to the next stage of the journey requires that we pass the tests of the previous stage.

Application Questions (use scriptures to support your position):

1. A group of friends are worried about one of them because they think she does not aspire to much, compared to the rest of the group. They want to find a way to get her to become more ambitious: “there’s so much more that life can offer”, they say. They have asked for your advice. What would you say to them?
2. A friend has asked for your advice. A senior person in her organisation has approached her with a proposition that will see her replace her current boss. This is a promotion she has long aspired to, and would be a major career breakthrough. The only requirement is that she spearhead efforts to discredit and unseat the current person in role. Once that succeeds, she will step into the role. What would you advise her to do?