1. The scepter will not depart from Judah (1-21)

Jacob struggled with men and got what he wanted. But when he struggled with God, God changed him into a man of blessing. In this chapter, he blesses his sons with blessings which are appropriate to each. These blessings are prophecies. Judah, the 4th son of Leah, received the most important blessing. He is the ancestor of David and of Christ. His three elder brothers lost their priority because of their evil acts (Ge 35:22;34:30). Read verse 10. The obedience of the nations belongs to Jesus through the preaching of the gospel to all nations.

2. Joseph is a fruitful vine (22-26)

Joseph's son Ephraim ('twice fruitful') became the ancestor of the largest tribe of Israel. Perhaps Jacob wanted him to be the covenant son, but this was not God's plan. However, Joseph's faith and character point to Jesus, so he is the spiritual ancestor of Jesus.

Application: Praise the God of blessing who sent Jesus to be a blessing to all nations.
One Word: A source of blessing