Chapter 38 takes a detour from the story of Joseph to focus on Judah and Tamar. In this shocking account, we see the deep darkness of sin- what happens when people disdain the word of God and pursue the exaltation of self. But hidden in this story is also the grace of God, continually working out his purposes for his people.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
This chapter may seem like a stranger interruption in the story of Joseph. Why do you think this story is important? How does it relate to the story of Joseph? The book of Genesis as a whole?
Read Genesis 24:3, 26:34-35, and 28:1. What was the problem with marrying Caananites? How do we see the consequences of this play out in Genesis 38?
Er and Onan’s wickedness was so great that God directly executed judgment on them. What does this tell you about the seriousness of sin and the character of God?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
What was the custom regarding a man who died without an heir? (see Deuteronomy 25:5-6). How does this help you better understand and have compassion for Tamar in this story?
The temptation with stories like this is to think, “These people are really really messed up!” without holding up the mirror of God’s word to our own lives. Consider and confess…
In what ways have I neglected to care for the vulnerable?
In what ways have I pursued selfish desires?
In what ways have I ignored the clear commands of God?
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
Read verses 27-30. Then Read Matthew 1:1-3. In God’s sovereign purposes the Savior comes from the line of Judah. This continues the whole-Bible theme of God using the most unlikely subjects for working out his redemptive purposes in the world. How can you apply this theme to your everyday life? (See 1 Corinthians 1:26-31)