Hebrews 11:22 & Genesis 50

1. Read Hebrews 11:20–22. Notice the specific language the author of Hebrews uses to describe the faith of Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. Why do you think the author reflects on what each man said at the end of his life? What point is the author trying to get across?
2. What is one thing you hope is true about you as you come to the end of your life? Explain.
3. God promised Abraham land, blessing, and generations of descendants more numerous than the stars. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph all died trusting that God would deliver on this promise, even though it would not be fulfilled in their lifetimes. Read Hebrews 11:13–16. What are some of the promises of God that will not be fulfilled until after your death?
4. Read Genesis 50:22–26. Hebrews 11:22 features Joseph’s words in Genesis 50:24–25 as a model of faith. Even though Joseph was a ruler in Egypt, he recognized he was really an exile. His true home was Canaan. Similarly, though we may enjoy many blessings in this life, all Christians are sojourners in exile awaiting our true home. How are you specifically tempted to think of this world as your true home instead of trusting God’s promise of your future home?
5. What does it look like for us as believers to be “strangers and exiles on the earth”? What opportunities do you have right now to live like that? After discussing, spend some time praying together.