January 21

Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children.— Genesis 37:3.

THIS we do not vindicate, and the manifestation of this extreme partiality was fraught with much bitterness. But at present we are to see in what respects Joseph seemed to have prefigured the Redeemer. His name signifies, increase. Of Christ, the prophet says, "of the increase of his government there shall be no end." (Isaiah 9:7.) John the Baptist said "I must decrease, but he must increase." (iii. 30.) Joseph was the greatly beloved of his father; in Christ, God's soul delighted, in him he was ever well pleased. Joseph was imbued with the spirit of wisdom, and hence was called Zaphneth-paaneah, that is expounder of secrets. In Jesus dwelt all the fulness of wisdom and knowledge. He came and revealed the mystery which had been hid for ages, and published the glorious doctrines of life and immortality. Joseph was distinguished for the integrity of his heart, and the uprightness of his life. Christ was holy, harmless, and undefiled, guile was never found in his mouth. Joseph was sent to seek his brethren, and to promote their welfare. Christ was sent as the brother of man, to promote the eternal well-being of the human family. Joseph was hated of his brethren, and they conspired to take away his life. Christ came to his own, but his own received him not, but sought to kill him, and long thirsted for his blood. Joseph was sold for twenty pieces of silver, Christ also was cruelly betrayed, and for thirty pieces of silver was delivered into the hands of his enemies. Joseph was falsely accused and cast into prison, Christ also was subjected to a mock trial, falsely condemned, and cast into the prison of the grave. Joseph predicted the restoration of one, and the execution of the other of those who were in prison with him. Christ also on the cross assured one of the malefactors that, on that day he should be with him in Paradise, while it is to be feared the other perished in unbelief. Joseph was afterwards exalted to sit on the throne of Pharoah, and to govern the whole land. Jesus also when he had suffered, was exalted to the right hand of the Majesty on High, where he sits as the universal governor, and the especial ruler of his church. Joseph forgave his cruel brethren and provided for his father's house, in the rich and fruitful land of Goshen. Jesus now waits to shed down the tokens of his grace upon the children of men, and finally to receive all true believers to his kingdom of glory. Am I interested in his gracious regards? Do I enjoy his heavenly favor? Am I now living to his honor, so that I may anticipate the enjoyment of his presence for ever? As none but Joseph could give corn to the famishing of old, so none but Jesus can give the bread of life to the hungry perishing sinner.