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

Jacob was a man of blessing and patriarch of the nation of Israel. He blessed each of his 12 sons appropriately. He recognized Judah as chosen for the most important blessing. He is the ancestor of David and of Christ. His older brothers lost their priority because of their violent acts. Jacob spoke of a time of fulfillment, when all nations would be ruled by Jesus and live in obedience to his rule.

2. Joseph is a fruitful vine (22-28)

Jacob loved Joseph and poured out his blessing on him. Joseph’s sons Ephraim and Manasseh each received a tribe in the nation of Israel. Joseph was not the covenant son, but he was a beautiful reflection of the gospel of Jesus in the Old Testament. He suffered greatly to bring his brothers to live under God’s blessing.


Application: Lord, make me a source of blessing. Use me to call others to live under your blessing.
One Word: Live in God’s blessing