When the nine sons of Jacob return to Canaan, they present a softened account of the events in Egypt, omitting the fact that Simeon remains behind. Upon discovering that all the money has been returned to their sacks, Jacob notes that all his sons have been taken away from him. Reuben makes a misguided offer to give his sons in place of Benjamin, and Jacob puts the matter to rest until the issue of hunger comes up once more. This time, Judah speaks to his father and offers himself as pledge and protection for Benjamin, who must go to Egypt. Jacob reluctantly agrees, placing the matter in the hands of God Almighty.

Rev. Matt Ulmer, pastor at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church—Friedheim, just outside Decatur, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 42:29-43:15.

To learn more about Zion Lutheran, visit zionfriedheim.org.

“In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God’s entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy’s head.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org