ABOUT JUDAH

0. About Judah

a) People who are leaders stand out. They don't necessarily look or act a certain way until the need for their action is apparent. Among their skills are outspokenness, decisiveness, action, and control. These skills can be used for great good or great evil. Jacob's fourth son, Judah, was a natural leader. The events of his life provided many opportunities to exercise those skills. Unfortunately Judah's decisions were often shaped more by the pressures of the moment than by a conscious desire to cooperate with God's plan. But when he did recognize his mistakes, he was willing to admit them. His experience with Tamar and the final confrontation with Joseph are both examples of Judah's willingness to bear the blame when confronted. It was one of the qualities he passed on to his descendant David.

b) Whether or not we have Judah's natural leadership qualities, we share with him a tendency to be blind toward our own sin. Too often, however, we don't share his willingness to admit mistakes. From Judah we can learn that it is not wise to wait until our errors force us to admit to wrongdoing. It is far better to admit our mistakes openly, to shoulder the blame, and to seek forgiveness.

1. What were his strengths and accomplishments?

a) Was a natural leader - outspoken and decisive.

b) Thought clearly and took action in high-pressure situations.

c) Was willing to stand by his word and put himself on the line when necessary.

d) Was the fourth son of 12, through whom God would eventually bring David and Jesus.

2. What were his weaknesses and mistakes?

a) Suggested to his brothers they sell Joseph into slavery.

b) Failed to keep his promise to his daughter-in-law, Tamar.

3. What can we learn from his life?

a) God is in control, far beyond the immediate situation.

b) Procrastination often makes matter worse.

c) Judah's offer to substitute his life for Benjamin's is a picture of what his descendant Jesus would do for all people.

4. What are the key verses?

a) ⁸ “Judah, your brothers will praise you; your hand will be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons will bow down to you. ⁹ You are a lion’s cub, Judah; you return from the prey, my son.
Like a lion he crouches and lies down, like a lioness—who dares to rouse him? ¹⁰ The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come
and the obedience of the nations shall be his. (Genesis 49:8-10 NIV)

b) Judah's story is told in Genesis 29:35-50:26. He is also mentioned in 1 Chronicles 2-4.