Jacob's remarkable transformation from selfish sibling to Godly patriarch still shakes the Bible reader. Only God could have transformed the grasping, scheming young man from Jacob to Israel. His sons were both a source of pride and humility to him.
In Genesis 48, 49, and 50 we see Israel's last days. God had provided for food for this man in a time of famine and set his family in place to be the chosen people, those through whom God would bless the entire world. The true tale is a chronicle of God's mercy, grace and forgiveness.
As he realized his end approached, Jacob called his family to his death-bedside. To each one, he gave words of encouragement or reproof. Finally demonstrated that he saw them all--recognized their strengths and their bents.
In bestowing blessing, Jacob exercised that scriptural principle that says that our words have power in the speaking. Those who walk with God are charged with binding "things on earth and in heaven." God spoke through Jacob the future things for the twelve brothers.
Joseph--his sons would each be extremely fruitful. There number would be more like two tribes than one.
Reuben--had committed a terrible sin in sleeping with one of his father's concubines. Even so, Jacob called him "preemininent in dignity, preeminent in power."
Simeon and Levi-solved their problems with violence. They would pay a price for their cruelty and their offspring would be scattered rather than united into a strong tribe. (Amazingly, God would call Levi to be the priestly tribe.)
Judah--royalty would proceed from his issue. Here, we see that Jacob is God's mouthpiece. David and his descendents would spring from Judah, and thus the Messiah would come.
Zebulun-his descendents would be sea-dwellers
Issachar--would be servants to others
Dan-would judge his people
Gad--would get revenge on his enemies
Benjamen--would divide the spoil
Through the Israelites, God would show the world His desire to draw all men to Himself. He took imperfect people and forgave them; took them out of sin and led them to a place of blessing.
Applications from this passage:
Fathers are spokepeople (See Deut. 6 for further instruction)
Parents must communicate the truth of God to their children. You want to give your kids options? Let them choose their toothpaste, or sandwich, or sport. In matters of faith, diligently instruct them in the goodness of God.
Never desert your family--God has plans that extend beyond personal goals and achievements.
Exercise generous forgiveness. The brothers feared that Joseph would exact revenge after their father's demise. Far from it! Joseph recognized God's might hand in the migration to Egypt, and only desired to make up for lost time with his extended family.
