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Week of October 11, 2026
Joseph: Dreams and Destiny

How to Know If You’ve Really Changed

Genesis 43:1-34
The big idea

Real repentance shows up when what we love and what we’re willing to sacrifice begins to change.

Talk about it

To start
Think of a big change you announced, like a gym membership or a diet. How long did it last?
1
Judah says, “From my hand you shall require him” (v. 9). What is he willing to risk, and who is it for?
2
Read Genesis 43:15-34. What do the brothers fear will happen in Joseph’s house, and what actually happens? How does Benjamin’s larger portion bring the family’s old struggle with favoritism back into view? What does the text reveal about their response?
3
Who currently carries a burden created by your choices, habits, or avoidance? What would taking responsibility look like this week, and what comfort or convenience would you need to surrender?
4
Where are you tempted to protect your reputation, money, or control by hiding something or telling only part of the truth? How does Christ’s love give you courage to be honest, and what specific step could you take toward truth and repair?
5
Whose success do you quietly treat as a threat? How does Christ’s love free you to celebrate them, and what act of encouragement could you give this week?
This week

Give Up, Seek Their Good

Finish this sentence: “Because Christ has loved me, this week I will give up ______ so I can seek ______’s good by ______.” Use a real name and action. Text it to one person in your group, then do it before we meet again.

Emmaus Churchemmauschurchtn.com
Walking with Jesus. Together.