Questions for Reflection - Profiles in Learning "The Ironies of God's Grace: Joseph and His Family"

Genesis 45:1–15

1. Joseph lived a long time in the "trappings" of Egypt that may have caused him to believe that he was "an Egyptian". What trappings do you wear that can cause you to forget who you really are?
2. Why is his brother's speech so effective cutting through these trappings? Have you ever had this experience?
3. Re-read vv. 45:4-7 There is self-disclosure, acknowledgment of hurt, and cause for forgiveness. How might Joseph's words to his brothers help you?
4. Have you lived long enough to see the hand of God in your life over time? What examples do you have of the "ironies of God's grace" (where hurt and harm get turned to good in surprising ways?)
5. How do the Lord's Table and the Cross speak to the ironies of God's grace?
6. What implications do you see for what you are facing today and the choices you must make in how you will respond to hurt and harm?

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