Joseph became an important person: he was ruler over Egypt. But in the history of Israel, David is the great king. One can also mention David’s son Solomon. Why are they not mentioned in Hebrews 11:1–40? That is striking. It shows the wisdom of the writer of Hebrews. He wants to encourage the Hebrews (Hebrews 13:22) who became Christians. He tells them about the people who lived like them. Joseph lived far from Jerusalem in Egypt. He died far from home. But by faith he was assured of the things he hoped for (Hebrews 11:1). Even though Joseph was a ruler in Egypt, he recognized that he was an exile, that his true home was Canaan. So too, the readers should recognize that their true home is the heavenly city; and like Isaac, Jacob and Joseph they should trust God’s promise even in death.
1
22 By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave directions concerning his bones.