The Life of Joseph and the Side Story of Judah

When we read through Joseph’s life, it seems like we take a detour onto the wrong street of Judah’s life. We look up and think…why did that matter? But chapter 38 is not a detour. Within the verses, the author keeps the promised seed (Judah) within constant view, while also taking time to compare him with the favored son (Joseph).

Joseph will not be the one that continues to bring forth the Messiah Jesus Christ. Judah has that role according to Gen. 49:10 “The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.”

And in chapter 38, we see the grace of God on Judah, as it becomes apparent that he did not merit being used by God to bring forth the coming Christ. Yet the story of Joseph closely parallels the life of Judah, but with one common difference, which you must continue reading to pick up.

▶Jacob is deceived with a goat from the flock.

Tamar deceives Judah with a goat of the flock.

▶Jacob is asked to identify Jospeh’s robe to affirm his death in the deception and sin of the brothers.

Judah identifies his staff and signet cord showing his own deception and sin.

▶Jacob mourns for the supposed death of his son Joseph. Judah mourns over the death of his wicked sons.

▶Joseph is sold into slavery and forced to leave the Promised Land. Judah willingly leaves the Promised Land to pursue a woman that was not of his people.

Judah stays long enough to birth three children in the foreign land…maybe longer.

▶Joseph resists the sexual advances of Potiphar’s wife day by day, while Judah goes seeking a prostitute.

Tamar knows this and therefore presents herself to him as such.

▶God’s name is used in both of these chapters. Each time it is used in relation to Joseph, it is always in the form of his blessing.

God blesses Joseph twice in the prison and in the home of Potiphar. God blesses the household of Potiphar.

Judah has the mention of God’s name three times and each time it is associated with judgment. God puts Er and Onan to death for their wickedness. Yahweh blesses one and opposes the other.

Joseph would continue to rise in prominence among Egypt. He would forgive his brothers, he would provide for nations, and he would have his bones taken back to the Promised Land. Judah would make a turn from his sin. He would self-sacrifice in the place of Benjamin if not returned. Judah would even be selected by Joseph to gather information on the family’s settlement in Goshen. Joseph has dreams and fulfillment in being bowed down to by his brothers and parents. Judah would receive a similar prophecy of the Messiah Genesis 49:8 “Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons shall bow down before you.”

It is clear, God will bring forth Jesus from the tribe of Judah as promised. To ensure this promise, God uses the faithful and righteous life of Joseph. Both sons are part of the plan. One son’s obedience unfolds the plan. The other son’s sin does not stop God’s plan. Jesus will come as a better Judah and a better Joseph. There are no detours in the Word of God. He is working and willing to provide a Savior for his people.

-Pastor John Richardson