charge, and so had finished his testimony, he addressed himself to his dying work. He gathered up
his feet into the bed, not only as one patiently submitting to the stroke, but as one cheerfully
composing himself to rest, now that he was weary. He freely gave up his spirit into the hand of
God, the Father of spirits. If God's people be our people, death will gather us to them. Under the
care of the Shepherd of Israel, we shall lack nothing for body or soul. We shall remain unmoved
until our work is finished; then, breathing out our souls into His hands for whose salvation we have
waited, we shall depart in peace, and leave a blessing for our children after us.
Chapter 50
Chapter Outline
The mourning for Jacob. (1–6)
His funeral. (7–14)
Joseph's brethren crave his pardon, He (15–21)
comforts them.
Joseph's direction concerning his bones, His (22–26)
death.Verses 1–6
Though pious relatives and friends have lived to a good old age, and we are confident they are
gone to glory, yet we may regret our own loss, and pay respect to their memory by lamenting them.
Grace does not destroy, but it purifies, moderates, and regulates natural affection. The departed
soul is out of the reach of any tokens of our affection; but it is proper to show respect to the body,
of which we look for a glorious and joyful resurrection, whatever may become of its remains in
this world. Thus Joseph showed his faith in God, and love to his father. He ordered the body to be
embalmed, or wrapped up with spices, to preserve it. See how vile our bodies are, when the soul
has forsaken them; they will in a very little time become noisome, and offensive.
Verses 7–14
Jacob's body was attended, not only by his own family, but by the great men of Egypt. Now
that they were better acquainted with the Hebrews, they began to respect them. Professors of religion
should endeavour by wisdom and love to remove the prejudices many have against them. Standers-by
took notice of it as a grievous mourning. The death of good men is a loss to any place, and ought
to be greatly lamented.
Verses 15–21