Character Study Of Reuben Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF REUBEN – FIRSTBORN OF JACOB

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:

Genesis 29:32 – “And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the Lord hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will love me.”

Supporting Texts:

Genesis 35:22, Genesis 37:21-22, Genesis 42:22, Genesis 49:3-4, 1 Chronicles 5:1-2

INTRODUCTION

Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah. His name means "Behold, a son!" which reflected Leah’s hope that bearing him would win her Jacob’s love. As the firstborn, Reuben was naturally positioned to inherit the birthright and leadership of the family. However, his actions led to the loss of his privileges and the prophecy of instability over his life.

Although he had moments of good intentions, Reuben often lacked the strength of character to follow through. His life is a mixture of leadership, failure, and missed opportunities. He sought to protect Joseph from being killed by his brothers but failed to prevent his sale into slavery. Later, he offered to take responsibility for Benjamin’s safety, but his father did not trust him.

The story of Reuben is a lesson in how moral failures and instability can cost a person their destiny. His life teaches us the importance of self-control, responsibility, and maintaining God’s favour.

1. REUBEN – THE FIRSTBORN WITH GREAT POTENTIAL

a) The meaning of his name – Leah named him Reuben, meaning "See, a son!" in the hope that Jacob would love her. (Genesis 29:32)

b) He was Jacob’s first strength – Jacob acknowledged Reuben’s natural position as the firstborn. (Genesis 49:3)

c) He was supposed to receive the birthright – The firstborn traditionally received double inheritance and leadership of the family. (Deuteronomy 21:17)

d) His potential was wasted – Despite his position, his character flaws prevented him from achieving greatness. (Genesis 49:4)

e) Biblical Example: Esau also lost his birthright due to carelessness. (Genesis 25:29-34)

2. REUBEN’S MORAL FAILURE

a) He committed immorality with Bilhah – He defiled his father’s concubine, an act of dishonour. (Genesis 35:22)

b) His action disrespected Jacob – Sleeping with Bilhah was a sign of rebellion and disrespect. (1 Chronicles 5:1)

c) He lost his birthright because of instability – His father described him as “unstable as water.” (Genesis 49:4)

d) His tribe never produced kings or priests – The leadership position went to Judah, and the priesthood to Levi. (Genesis 49:10, Numbers 3:6-7)

e) Biblical Example: Samson also lost his destiny due to lack of self-control. (Judges 16:18-21)

3. REUBEN TRIED TO SAVE JOSEPH

a) His brothers plotted to kill Joseph – The jealousy of Joseph’s dreams led them to seek his death. (Genesis 37:18-20)

b) Reuben advised against murder – He convinced them not to shed blood but to throw Joseph into a pit. (Genesis 37:21-22)

c) He planned to rescue Joseph later – His intention was to return and save him. (Genesis 37:22)

d) He was absent when Joseph was sold – His plan failed because he was not present to stop them. (Genesis 37:29-30)

e) Biblical Example: Pilate also tried to save Jesus but did not have the courage to resist the crowd. (Matthew 27:24-26)

4. REUBEN’S ATTEMPT TO RESTORE HIS HONOUR

a) He took responsibility for Benjamin – He offered his sons as security for Benjamin’s safety. (Genesis 42:37)

b) His father did not trust him – Jacob refused his offer and later entrusted Benjamin to Judah. (Genesis 43:8-9)

c) His tribe settled outside the Promised Land – The tribe of Reuben chose land outside Canaan. (Numbers 32:1-5)

d) His descendants lacked prominence – Unlike Judah and Joseph’s descendants, Reuben’s tribe did not produce great leaders. (1 Chronicles 5:1-2)

e) Biblical Example: King Saul also lost his position due to disobedience. (1 Samuel 15:26-28)

5. LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF REUBEN

a) Character is more important than position – Being the firstborn did not guarantee success. (Genesis 49:4)

b) Self-control is necessary for greatness – His instability cost him everything. (Proverbs 25:28)

c) Good intentions are not enough without action – He wanted to save Joseph but failed to act decisively. (James 2:17)

d) Some mistakes have lasting consequences – His sin with Bilhah permanently altered his destiny. (Galatians 6:7-8)

e) Biblical Example: Judas Iscariot also lost his place due to bad choices. (Acts 1:16-20)

6. STRENGTHS OF REUBEN

a) A natural leader – As the firstborn, he was expected to lead his siblings. (Genesis 49:3)

b) Compassionate – He did not want Joseph to be killed and tried to save him. (Genesis 37:21-22)

c) Took responsibility – He was willing to stand for Benjamin’s safety. (Genesis 42:37)

d) A man of remorse – He expressed deep regret for what happened to Joseph. (Genesis 42:22)

e) Biblical Example: Peter also showed remorse after denying Jesus. (Luke 22:61-62)