ABF 19.43 LN

Joseph was vigilantly committed to a bigger role that God had in mind
He also was committed to a forgiveness and reconciliation which was from God and not of this world
Chapters Genesis 42-44 gives our context for today
In Joseph’s reunion with his brothers, his identity is kept secret and he looks nothing like the boy they once knew
A lesser man would’ve wanted to get back at his brothers, and he even had the opportunity to make his literal dreams real by making them bow down to him
The brothers had to come face to face with their sin, and they seemed to be at least somewhat repentant
Joseph lays down his demands harshly so he can gauge their character.
But in his goodness, this is only temporary and he blesses them in reality
The 1st principle of power and authority is stewardship, and that is given by God as we see instituted and exampled in Genesis 1:26-28 for example
Also in Romans 13 and John 19:11
Ezekiel 34 shows God rebuking leaders for not caring for those in their care or easing their burdens. Also something similar is seen in Matthew 23 and Mark 10
But Joseph uses his God-given authority to provide and restore his people. He was properly meek
A 2nd principle of power and authority is that it plays out positionally and situationally
Joseph was put into this position and in this time and place specifically to use these powers for God’s will
In the wrong hands, this positional power is quickly governed by sin and is used selfishly as opposed to being for the benefit of others and God’s glory
A 3rd principle is that power comes through expertise
Pharaoh didn’t care about Joseph’s past–he cared about his expertise and competence in it. He was given prophetic insight and competence to manage the country in light of those insights
There is also psychological power. Joseph has them pegged and wrapped around his finger before he even takes any action
Improperly used, this can destroy relationship and abuse people.
Joseph also has the power to punish and persecute, but he dispenses grace and blessing instead
How does Joseph actually display his power and authority? A spiritual source of power is recognized and glorified by a leader who is godly
Paul understood his power and gave the correct narrative in 1 Cor 2.
1 Corinthians 2, Isaiah 40:29
The way Joseph used his power helped his brothers confront their sin and grow their relationship with God
There was no selfishness, bitterness or punitive motivation in Joseph’s heart. Secular methods would not have repaired or redeemed their relationship–but God’s way did accomplish this
In great or small opportunities and positions, how do we exercise our power and authority?
Do we dominate our kids or use godly wisdom to teach? Do we control our spouse or build unity with our power?
What brand of authority do we wield? We have a responsibility to serve others instead of self
Do we use a brand of secular power even to achieve godly goals?