Gatherings

O.T. #105 "Gatherings"
August 13, 2013
Genesis 49-Part 1
And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.  Genesis 49:1

LET IT GLOW

We have gatherings-family gatherings, church gatherings, social gatherings, community gatherings, club gatherings. I've been to all sorts of gatherings. Have you? When people gather together, they usually have a common thread that brings them together. It's that way for this family in our chapter 49. The patriarchal of the family called his sons to gather together. Let's find out why.

Gather around, boys. I've something to tell you. Well, that wasn't the exact words of Jacob in his last days.

Apart from Joseph's dying oath in 50:25, this is the last of the great sayings of destiny, the blessings, the curses, the judgment, and the promises that fill the book of Genesis. (Falwell)

With Judah and Joseph receiving the most attention, the father's blessing portrayed the future history of each son, seemingly based upon their characters up to that time. (MacArthur)

One day all of God's children will be gathered together and worship around the throne. What a day that will be! Will you be there with me, friend?
Meanwhile, do you gather with other believers to worship King Jesus each Sunday?

LET IT GROW

In the last days refers to Israel's future in two ways: the period of their occupation of Canaan, and the time of the coming of Messiah. Sometimes it refers to Israel at the end of the Tribulation period, to the history of Gentile nations, or to the present church age in its entirety. (Falwell)

Jacob's pronouncements in chapter 49 included both prophecy and blessing. (Ryrie)

Jacob had received a double blessing, spiritual and temporal; the promise of being progenitor of the Messiah, and the promise of the land of Canaan. the promised land he might divide among his children as he pleased, but the other must be confined to one of his sons; he therefore assigns to each son a portion in the land of Canaan, but limits the descent of the blessed seed to the tribe of Judah.
(Matthew Henry)

Wouldn't it be something to have your father prophecy your future as did Jacob? Especially, down through future generations. Are you trusting in your name?

LET IT GO

Keep gathering with believers to worship the Risen Savior.

Lay aside things of the world and study the Bible daily.

Trust in the One who has control of the Last Days-God.

Share with my descendants what God has done in my life.