Lutheran Lens Commentary: Genesis 50:1-14

Lutheran Lens Reading of Genesis 50:1-14

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Genesis 50:1-14 through the Lutheran Lens by focusing on the tension between Law and Gospel. This passage, detailing Joseph's mourning and burial of his father Jacob, is a powerful reminder of the Law's work in confronting us with death, the ultimate consequence of sin. Yet, we also see the Gospel in Joseph's faithful actions, pointing to Christ's burial and resurrection. The emphasis on the fulfillment of Jacob's wish to be buried in the promised land foreshadows our hope in Christ's promise of resurrection and eternal life, which comes to us by grace through faith.

Key Language Decisions

In this passage, the Hebrew verb 'chazaq' (חָזַק) used in Genesis 50:1, translated as 'embraced' or 'clung to,' underscores the deep human grief that confronts us with the Law's reality of death. The term 'Shalom' (שָׁלוֹם) mentioned in the context of peace and reconciliation at the funeral reflects the peace brought by Christ, serving as a Gospel promise. Our tradition emphasizes these translations to highlight the Law's demands and the Gospel's comfort.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions that may read this passage as emphasizing covenant faithfulness and human responsibility, we focus on the Law's condemnation of sin through death and the Gospel's promise of life in Christ. Catholic traditions might view Joseph's actions as meritorious, whereas we see them as responses to God's grace, not contributing to justification. The difference lies in our emphasis on grace alone through faith alone, rejecting any works-based righteousness.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, a Lutheran Lens pastor would emphasize the reality of death as the Law's unyielding demand, exposing our sin and helplessness. Yet, we would proclaim the Gospel's assurance of resurrection through Christ, who has overcome death for us. We would comfort the congregation with the promise of eternal life, pointing to the sacraments as means of grace that deliver this promise. A Lutheran congregation would expect to hear about the theology of the cross, where God meets us in our suffering and weakness, transforming our grief into hope through Christ's victory.

Cross-References: Romans 6:3-5; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57; Isaiah 25:8; John 11:25-26; Revelation 21:4

Doctrinal Connections: theology of the cross; simul justus et peccator; justification by faith alone; means of grace; resurrection hope