READ: Gen. 49:1-4: … my firstborn … you shall not excel …
After arriving in Egypt, Jacob’s faith took a turn for the better. This is evident in the blessings he gives his children on his deathbed. Prior to this, Jacob often seemed focused on himself, his possessions, and his prosperity. Think of how he purchased Esau’s birthright, deceived his father Isaac for the blessing, and schemed to gain wealth from Laban.
But now, all of that has changed. Jacob is focused on God’s promises and the future of his descendants.
On his deathbed, Jacob acts as a prophet of God. The blessings, admonitions, and predictions are inspired by the Holy Spirit. His sons must take these words to heart, letting go of their own efforts to seize the promises, just as Jacob learned at Peniel.
This is why he refers to himself as “Israel in verse 2—the name God gave him there, meaning “Struggler with God” or “Prince of God”. Jacob urges his sons to fight the LORD’s battles and to rely on Him (cf. Romans 4:17ff).
Jacob gathers all his sons at his bedside to hear the prophecy concerning the nation of Israel, of which they are the patriarchs. Yet, each receives an individual blessing, tailored to their character and legacy.
Reuben, the firstborn, is called first. As the eldest, he should have been a leader, an example, and the recipient of a double portion of the inheritance. Jacob acknowledges this, but a shadow hangs over Reuben due to his past sin. Reuben acted disgracefully by having relations with Bilhah, his father’s concubine (Gen. 35:22). This act defiled his father’s bed and violated God’s law.
Though Reuben remains a patriarch, he forfeits the rights of the firstborn, which are instead given to Joseph.
Does God punish the descendants of sinful parents?
Sing: Ps. 51:3