they know not to what hardships they may be brought before they die. From the whole of this
chapter we see with wonder the ways of Providence. The malignant brothers seem to have gotten
their ends; the merchants, who care not what they deal in so that they gain, have also obtained
theirs; and Potiphar, having got a fine young slave, has obtained his! But God's designs are, by
these means, in train for execution. This event shall end in Israel's going down to Egypt; that ends
in their deliverance by Moses; that in setting up the true religion in the world; and that in the spread
of it among all nations by the gospel. Thus the wrath of man shall praise the Lord, and the remainder
thereof will he restrain.
Chapter 38
The profligate conduct of Judah and his family.
—This chapter gives an account of Judah and his family, and such an account it is, that it seems
a wonder that of all Jacob's sons, our Lord should spring out of Judah, Heb 7:14. But God will
show that his choice is of grace and not of merit, and that Christ came into the world to save sinners,
even the chief. Also, that the worthiness of Christ is of himself, and not from his ancestors. How
little reason had the Jews, who were so called from this Judah, to boast as they did, Joh 8:41. What
awful examples the Lord proclaims in his punishments, of his utter displeasure at sin! Let us seek
grace from God to avoid every appearance of sin. And let that state of humbleness to which Jesus
submitted, when he came to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself, in appointing such characters
as those here recorded, to be his ancestors, endear the Redeemer to our hearts.
Chapter 39
Chapter Outline
Joseph preferred by Potiphar. (1–6)
Joseph resists temptation. (7–12)
Joseph is falsely accused by his mistress. (13–18)
He is cast into prison, God is with him there. (19–23)Verses 1–6
Our enemies may strip us of outward distinctions and ornaments; but wisdom and grace cannot
be taken from us. They may separate us from friends, relatives, and country; but they cannot take
from us the presence of the Lord. They may shut us from outward blessings, rob us of liberty, and
confine us in dungeons; but they cannot shut us out from communion with God, from the throne
of grace, or take from us the blessings of salvation. Joseph was blessed, wonderfully blessed, even
in the house where he was a slave. God's presence with us, makes all we do prosperous. Good men