Just when the spotlight turns to Joseph’s trials in Egypt, Genesis 38 takes a shocking detour into scandal, sin, and surprising grace. Judah, the ancestor of Christ, falls into deception, sexual sin, and hypocrisy. Tamar, also caught up in deception, leads us to question if perceived injustice is an excuse for her sinful behavior. This chapter teaches us about God's mercy, human failure, and the messy lineage of our Savior.

The Rev. Gregory Alms, St. Paul Lutheran Church and School in Catonsville, MD, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 38.

To learn more about St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, visit stpaulcatonsville.org.

Genesis isn’t just the start of the Bible; it’s the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal.

In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you’ve read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith.