Judah had not exactly been a model citizen. From his behavior in selling Joseph into slavery to his behavior with Tamar, Judah had many faults. But when he and his brothers were traveling back from Egypt after purchasing grain the second time, only to be stopped and accused of stealing, Judah showed how much he had grown (Genesis 44). He had become surety for his brother Benjamin, guaranteeing to Jacob, his father, that the youngest son would return safely. Then after a cup was found in Benjamin’s sack, requiring Benjamin to return to Egypt as a slave, Judah steps in and offers himself as a slave instead of his brother.
When he encouraged his brothers to sell Joseph, he was purely selfish, looking for gain. His actions in regard to Tamar were unfair, and he broke his word. But now we see a different Judah. He is not thinking selfishly, but rather is concerned about his brother and father. He is not about to break his word, but he tells others of his promise. Judah was willing to be a living sacrifice, a slave in a foreign country, because of a promise he made and because of his love for others.
When we obey the Gospel, we make a promise to God to do His will (Romans 12:1-2). When we said we would follow Christ, it meant putting others first (Philippians 2:4). Judah grew out of selfishness and into sacrifice. Is it not time that we all did?
