Joseph and the Way of Forgiveness: A Biblical Tale Retold

In this captivating contemporary retelling of the biblical story of Joseph, independent scholar Mitchell (The Gospel According to Jesus) delivers a strong message of forgiveness. In witty prose, he introduces the reader to Joseph, the beautiful, favored son of Jacob. Because of Jacob’s favoritism and Joseph’s tattling, Joseph’s brothers’ resentment of him intensifies to hatred when Jacob presents Joseph with the lavish gift of a multicolored coat. Meanwhile, Joseph has dreams of his brothers bowing down to him, and when he shares them with his brothers and Jacob, they are displeased. Jacob is convinced Joseph is destined for greatness, but he admonishes him to keep his dreams to himself, while the brothers contemplate how much better life would be without their spoiled younger brother. “No one, of course, wants to suffer. And yet the fortunate among us manage to learn from our suffering what can be learned nowhere else.” Mitchell takes a novelistic approach as he shares Joseph’s suffering through betrayal, slavery, and false accusations against him by his brothers. Also included are a helpful prologue and epilogue (as well as a section of “Notes and References”) that provide context. Focusing on themes of humility, redemption, and forgiveness, Mitchell’s retelling will be perfect for bible study groups and Christian readers looking for an easy point of entry into the Book of Genesis. [em](Sept.) [/em]