Hebrews 11:22
By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
Hebrews 11:22 (KJV)
Context
The book of Hebrews is a New Testament epistle written to Jewish Christians facing persecution and the temptation to revert to Judaism. The author presents Jesus Christ as the superior fulfilment of the Old Testament law and covenant. Hebrews 11 is often called the “Hall of Faith,” highlighting the faith of various Old Testament individuals.
Meaning
Joseph, the son of Jacob, is a prominent figure in Genesis, known for his coat of many colours, his dreams, and his rise to power in Egypt. Hebrews 11:22 acknowledges Joseph’s faith at the end of his life. The phrase “when he died” shows that this act of faith occurred near his death. Despite the trials he faced—being sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned—Joseph held onto unwavering faith in God’s promises.
Joseph’s mention of the departing of the children of Israel refers to the promise God made to Abraham that his descendants would be enslaved in a foreign land for 400 years before being delivered and brought back to the Promised Land (Genesis 15:13-14). This promise was fulfilled through Joseph’s position in Egypt, where he eventually brought his family, the children of Israel.
Joseph’s faith is further demonstrated in his commandment concerning his bones. In Genesis 50:24-26, Joseph made his brothers swear an oath that when God visited them and brought them out of Egypt, they would carry his bones with them and bury him in the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This act of faith showed Joseph’s confidence in God’s faithfulness to fulfil His promises to the descendants of Abraham.
Biblical connections
Joseph’s faith was not weakened by his riches and honours in Egypt. He was not afraid of death, nor did his prosperity make him proud or forgetful of God’s promises. His command concerning his bones showed his confidence in God’s future deliverance and his identification with God’s people rather than with Egypt.
Joseph’s faith teaches us the importance of trusting in God’s promises even when circumstances seem dire.
Joseph’s mention of the departing of the children of Israel reminds us of the fulfilment of God’s promises in His perfect timing. Just as God fulfilled His promise to bring the Israelites out of Egypt, He is faithful to fulfil all His promises to us.
Joseph’s commandment concerning his bones reveals the significance of identifying with the future deliverance and inheritance of God’s people. It reflects his hope and anticipation for the fulfilment of God’s promises, even beyond his own lifetime.
Application
True faith looks beyond present circumstances to the fulfilment of God’s promises, even when that fulfilment is far in the future. Joseph’s example encourages believers to trust God’s plan, to identify with His people, and to live with hope in His promises, regardless of current trials or prosperity.
