Sunday School Lesson February 6, 2022

Subject: The Pitfall of Injustice

The Point: Press forward in spite of injustice.

The Passages: Genesis 39:21-23, 40:4-8,20-23

Study The Bible: Genesis 39:21-23

1). Keep doing good in the face of injustice.

21. But the Lord was with Joseph and extended kindness to him. He granted him favor with the prison warden.
22. The warden put all the prisoners who were in the prison under Joseph’s authority, and he was responsible for everything that was done there.
23. The warden did not bother with anything under Joseph’s authority, because the Lord was with him, and the Lord made everything that he did successful.

Lasting truths from: Genesis 39:21-23                           

* God’s kindness and His favor can override unjust actions made by humans.

* God will give us new tasks of service when we are faithful to Him.

* Even unbelievers can recognize God’s hand on our lives.

2). When you’re a victim, don’t take it out on others.

Genesis 40:4-8

4. The captain of the guards assigned Joseph to them as their personal attendant, and they were in custody for some time.
5. The king of Egypt’s cupbearer and baker, who were confined in the prison, each had a dream. Both had a dream on the same night, and each dream had its own meaning.
6. When Joseph came to them in the morning, he saw that they looked distraught.
7. So he asked Pharaoh’s officers who were in custody with him in his master’s house, “Why do you look so sad today?”
8. “We had dreams,” they said to him, “but there is no one to interpret them.” Then Joseph said to them, “Don’t interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dream.”

Lasting truth from: Genesis 40:4-8

* We can serve God effectively wherever we are.

*  God will bring people who need Him across our paths.

*  We should make every effort to take intentional steps to point people toward God.

3). Don’t be discouraged by delays.

Genesis 40:20-23

20. On the third day, which was Pharaoh’s birthday, he gave a feast for all his servants. He elevated the chief cupbearer and the chief baker among his servants.
21. Pharaoh restored the chief cupbearer to his position as cupbearer, and he placed the cup in Pharaoh’s hand .
22. But Pharaoh hanged the chief baker, just as Joseph had explained to them.
23. Yet the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.

Lasting truth from: Genesis 40:20-23

* God often works His purpose through human agents.

*  Believers will experience God’s restoration just as the chief cupbearer experienced restoration to his position.

* We should be quick to glorify God by mentioning others and the work they have done for His kingdom.

Live It Out

As you reflect on this session, respond to the following questions:

1. What obstacles have you seen Him overcome when you are determined to stay faithful in the midst of injustice?
2. Identify positions of service at your church that are less public or visible. How do they support the church’s overall purpose?
3. We know ultimate justice will occur wen Jesus returns. Meanwhile, how can we avoid discouragement when the dispensing of justice is delayed?

Closing Prayer:

“Dear God, I know I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died on the cross to forgive me of my sins and rose from the dead to give me new life. I’m sorry for all the wrong I’ve done and ask You to forgive me. I now accept Your gift of eternal life. Thank You for Your love, forgiveness, and a new life in Jesus Christ. From this day forward, I choose to follow You. In Jesus’ name Amen.”