genesis 37 - joseph narrative

Genesis 37 - Joseph Narrative

Genesis 37 - Joseph Narrative

How does chap. 36 fit?How does chap. 36 fit?

Isaac’s blessing to Esau 27:39-40. Apparent fulfillment of this

blessing in secular strength and might.

(next slide)

Isaac’s blessing to Esau 27:39-40. Apparent fulfillment of this

blessing in secular strength and might.

(next slide)

Esau = Edom (vs. 1,8)Esau = Edom (vs. 1,8)

3 wives|

5 sons*|

10 grandsons*

* 13 Chiefs

3 wives|

5 sons*|

10 grandsons*

* 13 Chiefs

Horites in SeirHorites in Seir

20-30 = 7 sons became chiefs and 21 tribes were conquered by Esau

31-39 = 8 Kings in succession

40-43 = Chiefs in 11 districts

20-30 = 7 sons became chiefs and 21 tribes were conquered by Esau

31-39 = 8 Kings in succession

40-43 = Chiefs in 11 districts

Deu. 2:12

How does chap. 36 fit?How does chap. 36 fit?

Setting for the opening of chapter 37

Contrast of Esau and Joseph

Setting for the opening of chapter 37

Contrast of Esau and Joseph

Overview of Chapter 37Overview of Chapter 37

1-4 Jacob favors Joseph 5-11 Joseph relates his two

dreams 12-35 Joseph sold by his brothers



Read 37:1-11Read 37:1-11

1-4 Jacob favors Joseph1-4 Jacob favors Joseph

Joseph brings a bad report of his brothers to Jacob.

Jacob’s love for Joseph shown in his robe.

Brother’s response was one of hate and broken relationship.

Joseph brings a bad report of his brothers to Jacob.

Jacob’s love for Joseph shown in his robe.

Brother’s response was one of hate and broken relationship.

Joseph relates his two dreamsJoseph relates his two dreams

Agricultural dream Response of the brothers Celestial dream Response of the brothers and

Jacob

Agricultural dream Response of the brothers Celestial dream Response of the brothers and

Jacob

What do we know so far?What do we know so far? The contrast between Esau (who has

everything -land, generations, chiefs) and Jacob (a sojourner, father of 11 evil sons and whose generations are defined by a 17 year old boy - Joseph)

Jacob favors Joseph and gives him a long robe. This favor and the robe bring hate from his brothers.

The contrast between Esau (who has everything -land, generations, chiefs) and Jacob (a sojourner, father of 11 evil sons and whose generations are defined by a 17 year old boy - Joseph)

Jacob favors Joseph and gives him a long robe. This favor and the robe bring hate from his brothers.

What do we know so far?What do we know so far?

Joseph receives two dreams that evoke even more hate from his brothers.

Jacob sends Joseph out to check on his brothers.

The brothers plot to kill “this dreamer of dreams.”

Joseph receives two dreams that evoke even more hate from his brothers.

Jacob sends Joseph out to check on his brothers.

The brothers plot to kill “this dreamer of dreams.”

Joseph sold by his brothersJoseph sold by his brothers Joseph sent to inquire about his brothers. Brothers plot against him Reuben intercedes to save his life Judah’s plan not to shed his blood Joseph sold to the Ishmaelites. Robe dipped in blood and shown to Jacob The Ishmaelites sell Joseph to Potiphar in

Egypt.

Joseph sent to inquire about his brothers. Brothers plot against him Reuben intercedes to save his life Judah’s plan not to shed his blood Joseph sold to the Ishmaelites. Robe dipped in blood and shown to Jacob The Ishmaelites sell Joseph to Potiphar in

Egypt.

An interesting pictureAn interesting picture

The scene for the eventual redemption of the nation of Israel

has now been set up. An innocent, righteous and faithful person has suffered unjustly at the hands of

his own brothers - does this sound familiar?

The scene for the eventual redemption of the nation of Israel

has now been set up. An innocent, righteous and faithful person has suffered unjustly at the hands of

his own brothers - does this sound familiar?

What can we learn?What can we learn? Righteous and faithful behavior

(regardless of the circumstances) often meets with jealousy and evil from others.

Suffering often does not mean I am doing something wrong, but perhaps the right thing!

Circumstances do not define our hope.

Righteous and faithful behavior (regardless of the circumstances) often meets with jealousy and evil from others.

Suffering often does not mean I am doing something wrong, but perhaps the right thing!

Circumstances do not define our hope.

Chapter 38Chapter 38

Judah’s follies meet with a righteous woman

Judah’s follies meet with a righteous woman

First - a broader context First - a broader context 49:8-12 Jacob’s blessing of rulership 43:8-10 Faithful behavior 44:18-34 Plea to Joseph concerning

Benjamin

49:8-12 Jacob’s blessing of rulership 43:8-10 Faithful behavior 44:18-34 Plea to Joseph concerning

Benjamin

Overview of Chapter 38Overview of Chapter 38 1-11 Judah’s Corruption 12-19 Tamar’s deception of Judah. 20-26 Revelation of righteousness 27-30 In the line of Christ

1-11 Judah’s Corruption 12-19 Tamar’s deception of Judah. 20-26 Revelation of righteousness 27-30 In the line of Christ

1-11 Judah’s Corruption1-11 Judah’s Corruption Judah leaves the family and turns to the

Canaanites. Three sons are born. Two sons die due to wickedness Shelah is withheld from Tamar. Tamar left a barren widow.

Judah leaves the family and turns to the Canaanites.

Three sons are born. Two sons die due to wickedness Shelah is withheld from Tamar. Tamar left a barren widow.

Overview of Chapter 38Overview of Chapter 38 1-11 Judah’s Corruption 12-19 Tamar’s deception of Judah 20-26 Revelation of righteousness 27-30 In the line of Christ

1-11 Judah’s Corruption 12-19 Tamar’s deception of Judah 20-26 Revelation of righteousness 27-30 In the line of Christ

12-19 Tamar’s deception of Judah


Tamar uses deception to gain what is rightfully hers (see next slide)

Tamar uses deception to gain what is rightfully hers (see next slide)

Levirate Marriage and HalizahLevirate Marriage and Halizah

According to Biblical law, the brother of a deceased childless man is required to marry his brother's widow. The levirate marriage is referred to in Hebrew, as yibbum. When the levir (yavam) does not wish to marry the childless widow (yevamah), the ceremony of halizah (Heb. lit. removing the shoe) must take place. This ceremony releases the woman from the levirate tie (zikkat ha-yibbum) and she is free to marry someone else.

Levirate Marriage and Halizah



Tamar uses deception to gain what is rightfully hers.

Judah gives a pledge Tamar conceives

Tamar uses deception to gain what is rightfully hers.

Judah gives a pledge Tamar conceives

What we have so farWhat we have so far Joseph, the favored son, hated by his brothers,

has been sold into slavery in Egypt. An interlude in the narrative concerning Judah,

(4th son of Leah) Judah has three sons and two die while

married to Tamar (the practice of Levirate marriage). The text calls them wicked and God took their lives.

Joseph, the favored son, hated by his brothers, has been sold into slavery in Egypt.

An interlude in the narrative concerning Judah, (4th son of Leah)

Judah has three sons and two die while married to Tamar (the practice of Levirate marriage). The text calls them wicked and God took their lives.

What we have so farWhat we have so far Judah’s third son is withheld from Tamar until

he grows up. Shelah grows up, but is not given to Tamar. Tamar deceives Judah by dressing as a

prostitute and lures him to her. She requests a pledge for the future payment of their transaction.

Judah gives up his cord and seal and his staff.

Judah’s third son is withheld from Tamar until he grows up.

Shelah grows up, but is not given to Tamar. Tamar deceives Judah by dressing as a

prostitute and lures him to her. She requests a pledge for the future payment of their transaction.

Judah gives up his cord and seal and his staff.

20-26 Revelation of Righteousness


The pledge is sent, but no “cult prostitute” was found.

Judah is informed of Tamar’s pregnancy The righteousness of Tamar

The pledge is sent, but no “cult prostitute” was found.

Judah is informed of Tamar’s pregnancy The righteousness of Tamar



Ruth 4:11-12

11 All the people who were in the court, and the elders, said, "We are witnesses. May the LORD make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, both of whom built the house of Israel; and may you achieve wealth in Ephrathah and become famous in Bethlehem.

12 "Moreover, may your house be like the house of Perez whom Tamar bore to Judah, through the offspring which the LORD will give you by this young woman."

Ruth 4:11-12

11 All the people who were in the court, and the elders, said, "We are witnesses. May the LORD make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, both of whom built the house of Israel; and may you achieve wealth in Ephrathah and become famous in Bethlehem.

12 "Moreover, may your house be like the house of Perez whom Tamar bore to Judah, through the offspring which the LORD will give you by this young woman."

27-30 In the line of Christ27-30 In the line of Christ The younger struggles to overcome the

elder. The younger struggles to overcome the

elder.

27-30 In the line of Christ27-30 In the line of Christ

Ruth 4

18 Now these are the generations of Perez: to Perez was born Hezron,

19 and to Hezron was born Ram, and to Ram, Amminadab,

20 and to Amminadab was born Nahshon, and to Nahshon, Salmon,

21 and to Salmon was born Boaz, and to Boaz, Obed, 22 and to Obed was born Jesse, and to Jesse, David.

Ruth 4

18 Now these are the generations of Perez: to Perez was born Hezron,

19 and to Hezron was born Ram, and to Ram, Amminadab,

20 and to Amminadab was born Nahshon, and to Nahshon, Salmon,

21 and to Salmon was born Boaz, and to Boaz, Obed, 22 and to Obed was born Jesse, and to Jesse, David.

Lessons from Chapter 38Lessons from Chapter 38

In spite of unrighteous and unfaithful men, a righteous woman can save a generation.

Unrighteous men complicate things, but do not stop the plan of God.

In spite of unrighteous and unfaithful men, a righteous woman can save a generation.

Unrighteous men complicate things, but do not stop the plan of God.


“From faithful slave to faithful prisoner”“From faithful slave to faithful prisoner”


Faithful slave in the house of Potiphar

Faithfulness in the face of temptation

Faithful prisoner in the prison of Pharoah .




1-10 Faithful slave in the house of Potiphar

1-10 Faithful slave in the house of Potiphar

Bought by the captain of the guard The Lord was with him - he was

successful. Joseph becomes the overseer of

the house.

Bought by the captain of the guard The Lord was with him - he was

successful. Joseph becomes the overseer of

the house.



Refusal to sin Fleeing from sin False accusation

Refusal to sin Fleeing from sin False accusation

19-23 Faithful prisoner in the prison of Pharoah

19-23 Faithful prisoner in the prison of Pharoah

The master was angered (but at whom?)

Joseph receives unjust punishment. The Lord was with Joseph and gave

him favor in the eyes of the keeper. He was made successful.

The master was angered (but at whom?)

Joseph receives unjust punishment. The Lord was with Joseph and gave

him favor in the eyes of the keeper. He was made successful.

What do we know so far?What do we know so far? The favored son is loved by Jacob, yet

hated by his brothers. The favored son is sold into slavery The interjection of the story of Judah

and Tamar. God is with Joseph and he is successful

in the house of Potiphar. He is made in charge of the entire house.

The favored son is loved by Jacob, yet hated by his brothers.

The favored son is sold into slavery The interjection of the story of Judah

and Tamar. God is with Joseph and he is successful

in the house of Potiphar. He is made in charge of the entire house.

What do we know so far?What do we know so far? Joseph withstands temptation. He equates

faithfulness to his responsibilities to his master as faithfulness to God.

The righteous Joseph is unjustly condemned to prison.

Even in prison, Joseph’s faithfulness earns him the role of overseer and keeper of the prison.

Joseph withstands temptation. He equates faithfulness to his responsibilities to his master as faithfulness to God.

The righteous Joseph is unjustly condemned to prison.

Even in prison, Joseph’s faithfulness earns him the role of overseer and keeper of the prison.

The “red threads”The “red threads” God’s choosing and selection of Joseph did not

result in a lack of troubles for Joseph, or instant success.

In every unjust circumstance, Joseph was faithful to his master (his father, Potiphar, the jailor, Pharoah)

Perseverance was the hallmark of Joseph’s life.

God’s choosing and selection of Joseph did not result in a lack of troubles for Joseph, or instant success.

In every unjust circumstance, Joseph was faithful to his master (his father, Potiphar, the jailor, Pharoah)

Perseverance was the hallmark of Joseph’s life.

Let’s read Chapter 40Let’s read Chapter 40


1-8 Two dreams 9-19 Interpretation of the dreams 20-23 Two heads lifted up!


1-8 Two dreams1-8 Two dreams “After some time” came the

cupbearer and the baker of the Pharoah.

Joseph is put in charge of them “for some time.”

Dreams are given to the two and Joseph offers to help.

“After some time” came the cupbearer and the baker of the Pharoah.

Joseph is put in charge of them “for some time.”

Dreams are given to the two and Joseph offers to help.

9-19 Interpretation of the dreams

9-19 Interpretation of the dreams

The cupbearer - a positive outcome.

The baker - not so positive.

The cupbearer - a positive outcome.

The baker - not so positive.

20-23 Two heads lifted up20-23 Two heads lifted up

Veracity of Joseph’s interpretation Joseph forgotten.

Veracity of Joseph’s interpretation Joseph forgotten.

What can we learn?What can we learn? Even though it had been 11 years since

being sold into slavery, Joseph believed God - he knew that only God could interpret the dreams.

Joseph’s suffering revealed his character.

Joseph did all he could to get out of the pit, but God’s timing is what prevails - the double responsibility.

Even though it had been 11 years since being sold into slavery, Joseph believed God - he knew that only God could interpret the dreams.

Joseph’s suffering revealed his character.

Joseph did all he could to get out of the pit, but God’s timing is what prevails - the double responsibility.

God’s timingGod’s timing15: 12 Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell

upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him.

13 God said to Abram, "Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years.

14 "But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward they will come out with many possessions.

15 "As for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you will be buried at a good old age.

15: 12 Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him.

13 God said to Abram, "Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years.

14 "But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward they will come out with many possessions.

15 "As for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you will be buried at a good old age.

Genesis 41Genesis 41

From the pit to the throneFrom the pit to the throne

The last 30 yearsThe last 30 years

Chap. 30-36:From birth to 17Chap. 30-36:From birth to 17 Jacob appeals to Laban to allow him to

leave. Laban changes his agreement, but the Lord increases the wealth of Jacob.

Jacob receives the command of the Lord to return to the land of his fathers. Jacob flees from Laban.

Jacob wrestles with God. Jacob reconciles with Esau.

Jacob appeals to Laban to allow him to leave. Laban changes his agreement, but the Lord increases the wealth of Jacob.

Jacob receives the command of the Lord to return to the land of his fathers. Jacob flees from Laban.

Jacob wrestles with God. Jacob reconciles with Esau.

Chap. 30-36:From birth to 17Chap. 30-36:From birth to 17 Defiling of Dinah, the daughter of Leah. The Lord command Jacob to go to

Bethel. Renaming of Jacob (affirming chap. 32)

Rachael and Isaac die Esau’s great wealth and kingdom.

Defiling of Dinah, the daughter of Leah. The Lord command Jacob to go to

Bethel. Renaming of Jacob (affirming chap. 32)

Rachael and Isaac die Esau’s great wealth and kingdom.

Chap. 37-41:From 17- 30Chap. 37-41:From 17- 30 Israel loved Joseph more than the others and

receives a robe. Joseph receives two dreams and reveals them

to his brothers and father. Joseph is sent to his brothers who strip him of

his robe and sell him to the Ismaelites. Jacob is deceived by the brothers showing him

the bloody robe.

Israel loved Joseph more than the others and receives a robe.

Joseph receives two dreams and reveals them to his brothers and father.

Joseph is sent to his brothers who strip him of his robe and sell him to the Ismaelites.

Jacob is deceived by the brothers showing him the bloody robe.

Chap. 37-41:From 17- 30Chap. 37-41:From 17- 30 The interlude of Judah and Tamar. Joseph bought by Pharaoh’s captain of the guard. The Lord was with Joseph - he becomes the

overseer of the house. Joseph resists temptation and is unjustly accused. Joseph is imprisoned and again becomes the

overseer. The cupbearer and the baker are imprisoned and

each have dreams. Joseph interprets the dreams accurately. Joseph is forgotten for two years.

The interlude of Judah and Tamar. Joseph bought by Pharaoh’s captain of the guard. The Lord was with Joseph - he becomes the

overseer of the house. Joseph resists temptation and is unjustly accused. Joseph is imprisoned and again becomes the

overseer. The cupbearer and the baker are imprisoned and

each have dreams. Joseph interprets the dreams accurately. Joseph is forgotten for two years.

The red threadsThe red threads Lex talionis. (retributive justice - eye for an eye,

etc.) Judah deceived and was himself deceived. Faithfulness: Judah was deceived, but remained

faithful in the service of Laban. Joseph was faithful, regardless of the circumstances.

Sovereign control of God of people, wealth and nations. (gave dreams, increased flocks, protected Jacob from Laban, overcame Jacob’s strength, reconciled brothers, Joseph’s placement with Potiphar, timing of the dreams)

Lex talionis. (retributive justice - eye for an eye, etc.) Judah deceived and was himself deceived.

Faithfulness: Judah was deceived, but remained faithful in the service of Laban. Joseph was faithful, regardless of the circumstances.

Sovereign control of God of people, wealth and nations. (gave dreams, increased flocks, protected Jacob from Laban, overcame Jacob’s strength, reconciled brothers, Joseph’s placement with Potiphar, timing of the dreams)

Overview of Chapter 41Overview of Chapter 41 1-13 Two dreams given to Pharaoh

and Joseph remembered. 14-24 Relating of the dreams. 24-36 Interpretation and solution 37-45 Crowning of Joseph 46-52 Seven years of plenty 53-57 The famine overtakes the world.

1-13 Two dreams given to Pharaoh and Joseph remembered.

14-24 Relating of the dreams. 24-36 Interpretation and solution 37-45 Crowning of Joseph 46-52 Seven years of plenty 53-57 The famine overtakes the world.



Sovereign timing of God - after two years. The dreams came in pairs. (Joseph had two

dreams, the two dreams of the cupbearer and the baker)(Joseph forgotten for two years, he changes clothes twice in 41)

None of the wise men or magicians could interpret the dreams.

The cupbearer remembers Joseph and his ability to interpret the dream.

Sovereign timing of God - after two years. The dreams came in pairs. (Joseph had two

dreams, the two dreams of the cupbearer and the baker)(Joseph forgotten for two years, he changes clothes twice in 41)

None of the wise men or magicians could interpret the dreams.

The cupbearer remembers Joseph and his ability to interpret the dream.

14-24 Relating of the dreams14-24 Relating of the dreams Joseph is called to Pharaoh. Joseph

prepares himself to come before royalty.

Joseph demonstrates faith in God - he is the one who will give a favorable answer.

Pharaoh relates the dreams again (another couplet)

Joseph is called to Pharaoh. Joseph prepares himself to come before royalty.

Joseph demonstrates faith in God - he is the one who will give a favorable answer.

Pharaoh relates the dreams again (another couplet)

24-36: Interpretation and solution

24-36: Interpretation and solution

Seven good years and seven years of famine. God has shown Pharaoh what he will do. God is mentioned four times between 25-32.

Doubling = fixed by God and He will shortly bring it about.

Joseph proceeds with a solution to the impending problem that will save the land.

Seven good years and seven years of famine. God has shown Pharaoh what he will do. God is mentioned four times between 25-32.

Doubling = fixed by God and He will shortly bring it about.

Joseph proceeds with a solution to the impending problem that will save the land.

37-45 Crowning of Joseph37-45 Crowning of Joseph Joseph is chosen above all others Position of Joseph:over my house and all

my people. Given authority and rulership Given a new name and a wife

Joseph is chosen above all others Position of Joseph:over my house and all

my people. Given authority and rulership Given a new name and a wife

46-52 Seven years of plenty46-52 Seven years of plenty Joseph gathers in the time of

plenty Joseph has two sons with Hebrew

names.

Joseph gathers in the time of plenty

Joseph has two sons with Hebrew names.


and Joseph remembered. 14-24 Relating of the dreams. 24-36 Interpretation and solution 37-45 Crowning of Joseph 46-52 Seven years of plenty 53-57 The famine overtakes the world


14-24 Relating of the dreams. 24-36 Interpretation and solution 37-45 Crowning of Joseph 46-52 Seven years of plenty 53-57 The famine overtakes the world

53-57 The famine overtakes the world

53-57 The famine overtakes the world

Joseph’s preparation provided for the Egypt.

Joseph’s preparation provides for the whole earth.

Joseph’s preparation provided for the Egypt.

Joseph’s preparation provides for the whole earth.

What we see so farWhat we see so far Perfect sovereignty of God A chosen and prepared man A man who remains faithful in success The Lord sets things up for the

reunification of the future tribes of Israel.

Perfect sovereignty of God A chosen and prepared man A man who remains faithful in success The Lord sets things up for the

reunification of the future tribes of Israel.

Genesis - Chapter 42Genesis - Chapter 42

The choice of Joseph and the confirmation of this through dreams.

The preparation of Joseph through suffering.

The positioning of Joseph as 2nd in command to Pharaoh and the one who controls the means of life.

God has set the stage for the reconciliation and eventual preservation of Israel through:

Overview of Chapter 42Overview of Chapter 42 1-5 The brothers sent to Egypt. 6-25 The brothers appear before

Joseph/2 tests 26-38 Return home and report to

Jacob.

1-5 The brothers sent to Egypt. 6-25 The brothers appear before


Jacob.

1-5 The brothers sent to Egypt

1-5 The brothers sent to Egypt

Jacob commands the brothers to Egypt - “live and not die”

Jacob fears for Benjamin and he remains.

Jacob commands the brothers to Egypt - “live and not die”

Jacob fears for Benjamin and he remains.

Overview of Chapter 42Overview of Chapter 42 1-5 The brothers sent to Egypt. 6-25 The brothers appear before


Jacob.

1-5 The brothers sent to Egypt. 6-25 The brothers appear before


Jacob.

6-25 The brothers appear before Joseph/2 tests

6-25 The brothers appear before Joseph/2 tests

Joseph remembers his dreams. Unity of the brothers tested through false

accusation and imprisonment. Guilt of the brothers is surfaced. Simeon is taken as the prisoner and Benjamin

is required for more food and a proof of their innocence.

Joseph provided for the family.

Joseph remembers his dreams. Unity of the brothers tested through false

accusation and imprisonment. Guilt of the brothers is surfaced. Simeon is taken as the prisoner and Benjamin

is required for more food and a proof of their innocence.

Joseph provided for the family.

26-28 Return home and report to Jacob

26-28 Return home and report to Jacob

Discovery of the money. Report to Jacob and the requirement of

Benjamin. The fear of Jacob over the possible loss of

Benjamin.

Discovery of the money. Report to Jacob and the requirement of

Benjamin. The fear of Jacob over the possible loss of

Benjamin.

Remembering Chapter 42Remembering Chapter 42 Seven years of plenty had ended, Joseph had two children

and had seen the bearing of fruit from his faithfulness to Pharaoh.

The dreams of Joseph when he was 17 had not yet been fulfilled - something was yet future.

The famine was so severe that Jacob sent his 10 sons (Benjamin remained home) to Egypt to buy grain.

The tranquility of Joseph is interrupted by the sudden appearance of his brothers, yet he remembers the dreams!

Joseph immediately tests the integrity of his brothers by first putting them in prison and then keeping one of them, while the others return.

Seven years of plenty had ended, Joseph had two children and had seen the bearing of fruit from his faithfulness to Pharaoh.

The dreams of Joseph when he was 17 had not yet been fulfilled - something was yet future.

The famine was so severe that Jacob sent his 10 sons (Benjamin remained home) to Egypt to buy grain.

The tranquility of Joseph is interrupted by the sudden appearance of his brothers, yet he remembers the dreams!

Joseph immediately tests the integrity of his brothers by first putting them in prison and then keeping one of them, while the others return.

Remembering Chapter 42Remembering Chapter 42 The guilt of the brothers is surfaced and Joseph hears it. Joseph fills their sacks with grain and returns their

money, unbeknown to them. The brothers discover the money while underway to

Canaan and fear what God is doing to them. The brothers report what happened to Jacob and the

demand that Benjamin go with them on the next trip, but out of fear Jacob refuses.

The guilt of the brothers is surfaced and Joseph hears it. Joseph fills their sacks with grain and returns their

money, unbeknown to them. The brothers discover the money while underway to

Canaan and fear what God is doing to them. The brothers report what happened to Jacob and the

demand that Benjamin go with them on the next trip, but out of fear Jacob refuses.

Overview of Chapter 43Overview of Chapter 43 1-15 Return to Egypt with Benjamin. 16-34 An amazing reception. 1-15 Return to Egypt with Benjamin. 16-34 An amazing reception.

1-15 Return to Egypt with Benjamin

1-15 Return to Egypt with Benjamin

The food is gone and Jacob is at a crossroads. Judah (and not Reuben) becomes the leader

and offers himself as a substitute. A present is prepared. Jacob chooses for the good of his family and

for his own grief. He pronounces his blessing upon them.

The brothers travel to Egypt with double the money and with Benjamin.

The food is gone and Jacob is at a crossroads. Judah (and not Reuben) becomes the leader

and offers himself as a substitute. A present is prepared. Jacob chooses for the good of his family and

for his own grief. He pronounces his blessing upon them.

The brothers travel to Egypt with double the money and with Benjamin.

Overview of Chapter 43Overview of Chapter 43 1-15 Return to Egypt with Benjamin. 16-34 An amazing reception. 1-15 Return to Egypt with Benjamin. 16-34 An amazing reception.

16-34 An Amazing reception16-34 An Amazing reception Brothers arrive in Egypt with Benjamin and a

feast is prepared. The brothers show their fear due to the

invitation. Reunion with Benjamin/Joseph’s compassion. The brothers are seated according to their

birth order Benjamin receives 5 times the amount of the

others.

Brothers arrive in Egypt with Benjamin and a feast is prepared.

The brothers show their fear due to the invitation.

Reunion with Benjamin/Joseph’s compassion. The brothers are seated according to their

birth order Benjamin receives 5 times the amount of the

others.


The final test of the brothers.The final test of the brothers.

Until this point..Until this point.. The brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin. The brothers are fearful because of the invitation to

Joseph’s table. The brothers experience grace through the words of the

steward. Joseph shows his compassion for Benjamin. The brothers enjoy a feast with Joseph - amazed at the

seating arrangement and Benjamin’s portions.

The brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin. The brothers are fearful because of the invitation to

Joseph’s table. The brothers experience grace through the words of the

steward. Joseph shows his compassion for Benjamin. The brothers enjoy a feast with Joseph - amazed at the

seating arrangement and Benjamin’s portions.

What we saw…What we saw… The mercy, grace and provision of God, in spite of who

or what the brothers had done in the past. The brother’s growth in character as witnessed through

Judah’s willingness to substitute himself for Benjamin and the apparent lack of jealousy when Benjamin received the extra portions. They had passed the first two test and one more awaited them.

The mercy, grace and provision of God, in spite of who or what the brothers had done in the past.

The brother’s growth in character as witnessed through Judah’s willingness to substitute himself for Benjamin and the apparent lack of jealousy when Benjamin received the extra portions. They had passed the first two test and one more awaited them.

Outline of Chapter 44Outline of Chapter 44 1-5 Joseph sets up the third test. 6- 13 Caught and returned to Joseph. 14-34 Judah’s appeal to Joseph.

1-5 Joseph sets up the third test. 6- 13 Caught and returned to Joseph. 14-34 Judah’s appeal to Joseph.

1-5 Joseph sets up the third test.

1-5 Joseph sets up the third test.

The chapter begins with the brothers just enjoying a fantastic meal with Joseph. They were relieved about the money, Simeon was given back and Benjamin would go back with them. Things could not be better.

Joseph sets up the test by filling the bags, but putting the cup and money in Benjamin’s sack. The brothers are sent away with apparently everything in order.

Joseph instructs the steward what to do.

The chapter begins with the brothers just enjoying a fantastic meal with Joseph. They were relieved about the money, Simeon was given back and Benjamin would go back with them. Things could not be better.

Joseph sets up the test by filling the bags, but putting the cup and money in Benjamin’s sack. The brothers are sent away with apparently everything in order.

Joseph instructs the steward what to do.

6- 13 Caught and returned to Joseph

6- 13 Caught and returned to Joseph

The brothers are confronted and deny everything.

A vow is made by the brothers- the one with the cup dies and the rest become servants.

The steward changes the vow. Benjamin is found with the cup to the horror of

the brothers. Everything is now unraveling before their eyes!

Notice verse 14 “Judah and his brothers.’ Judah admits their guilt, but what guilt?

The brothers are confronted and deny everything.

A vow is made by the brothers- the one with the cup dies and the rest become servants.

The steward changes the vow. Benjamin is found with the cup to the horror of

the brothers. Everything is now unraveling before their eyes!

Notice verse 14 “Judah and his brothers.’ Judah admits their guilt, but what guilt?

14-34 Judah’s appeal to Joseph.14-34 Judah’s appeal to Joseph. Judah takes the leadership of the situation. Judah retells the history of Joseph’s demands

and their first meeting. Judah recalls the agony of Jacob in sending

Benjamin. Judah offers himself as a substitute for his

brother and is thinking about the best for his father. What a difference from chapter 37!

Bingo - the excitement waits for us in chapter 45!

Judah takes the leadership of the situation. Judah retells the history of Joseph’s demands

and their first meeting. Judah recalls the agony of Jacob in sending

Benjamin. Judah offers himself as a substitute for his

brother and is thinking about the best for his father. What a difference from chapter 37!

Bingo - the excitement waits for us in chapter 45!

Genesis, Chapter 45Genesis, Chapter 45

Surprise of surprises!Surprise of surprises!

What do we know so far…What do we know so far… After 21 years the brothers “show-up” before Joseph,

but do not recognize him. Joseph tests the brothers in three different ways. He

puts them under pressure in order to reveal their character and unity as brothers plus loyalty to their father. First he jails them for 3 days, then he keeps Simeon as ransom for Benjamin and then false accusation regarding his silver cup.

Judah steps in as the leader of the brothers and offers himself as a substitute for Benjamin, if he does not come back from Egypt.

After 21 years the brothers “show-up” before Joseph, but do not recognize him.

Joseph tests the brothers in three different ways. He puts them under pressure in order to reveal their character and unity as brothers plus loyalty to their father. First he jails them for 3 days, then he keeps Simeon as ransom for Benjamin and then false accusation regarding his silver cup.

Judah steps in as the leader of the brothers and offers himself as a substitute for Benjamin, if he does not come back from Egypt.

What do we know so far…What do we know so far… The brothers return to Egypt and enjoy a feast

with Joseph. Having seen all things work out well for them, they return to Canaan, not realizing the last test of unity and loyalty has been set.

The return to Joseph and Judah pleads for Benjamin and offers himself. The brothers have past the tests of unity and loyalty.

The brothers return to Egypt and enjoy a feast with Joseph. Having seen all things work out well for them, they return to Canaan, not realizing the last test of unity and loyalty has been set.

The return to Joseph and Judah pleads for Benjamin and offers himself. The brothers have past the tests of unity and loyalty.

Overview of Chapter 45Overview of Chapter 45 1-15 Joseph reveals his identity 16-24 Pharaoh’s provision 25-28 Jacob’s suffering relieved

1-15 Joseph reveals his identity 16-24 Pharaoh’s provision 25-28 Jacob’s suffering relieved

1-15 Joseph reveals his identity(reveal, reassurance and provision)


Upon hearing the appeal of Judah, Joseph realizes the character of the brothers has tremendously changed. (Jacob’s name mentioned 14 times!)

The room is emptied and Joseph reveals himself to his brothers with loud cries.

The brothers are astounded. (dumbfounded!) Clearly Joseph confront the brothers with their act, but

reassures them his godly perspective. Joseph’s words and attitude toward his brothers are

ones that give life, whereas the brothers had tried to take his life.

Upon hearing the appeal of Judah, Joseph realizes the character of the brothers has tremendously changed. (Jacob’s name mentioned 14 times!)

The room is emptied and Joseph reveals himself to his brothers with loud cries.

The brothers are astounded. (dumbfounded!) Clearly Joseph confront the brothers with their act, but

reassures them his godly perspective. Joseph’s words and attitude toward his brothers are

ones that give life, whereas the brothers had tried to take his life.



Joseph immediately turns to a plan to provide for his family and bring Jacob to him. The second dream will be partially fulfilled.

His embrace with Benjamin and then the brothers talk as brothers - first time in 22 years.

Joseph immediately turns to a plan to provide for his family and bring Jacob to him. The second dream will be partially fulfilled.

His embrace with Benjamin and then the brothers talk as brothers - first time in 22 years.

16-24 Pharaoh’s provision16-24 Pharaoh’s provision

Pharaoh confirms Joseph’s provision to his family.

Joseph gives gifts to his brothers. As his “clothes” were taken from him, he now gives them new ones.

Benjamin receives five times as much. “Do not quarrel on the way.” (Do not engage

in mutual recrimination)

Pharaoh confirms Joseph’s provision to his family.

Joseph gives gifts to his brothers. As his “clothes” were taken from him, he now gives them new ones.

Benjamin receives five times as much. “Do not quarrel on the way.” (Do not engage

in mutual recrimination)

25-28 Jacob’s suffering relieved25-28 Jacob’s suffering relieved

Initial disbelief upon their arrival. He states the main goal and that is to see his

son before his death.

Initial disbelief upon their arrival. He states the main goal and that is to see his

son before his death.

What can we learn?What can we learn?

Life is preserved by God’s sovereign choosing of a man to be a deliverer of the people.

The evil plans of man are used by God for his end result. Acts 2:

23 this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death.24 "But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power.

Life is preserved by God’s sovereign choosing of a man to be a deliverer of the people.

The evil plans of man are used by God for his end result. Acts 2:

23 this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death.24 "But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power.

What can we learn?What can we learn?

Knowing that God can and does use the evil of man for his good, leaves us with no room for retaliation or bitterness.

Romans 12:17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men.18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord.

20 "BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD."

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Knowing that God can and does use the evil of man for his good, leaves us with no room for retaliation or bitterness.

Romans 12:17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men.18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord.

20 "BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD."

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

What is ahead?What is ahead?

The journeying of Jacob to Egypt and the listing of the genealogy. The fulfillment of Genesis 15.

Jacob blesses Pharaoh - the greater blesses the lesser. Joseph’s faithfulness to Pharaoh - the people give all

they have for life! Joseph provides life to the people by giving back seed. The blessing of Joseph’s children - looking to the

Messianic Kingdom- Ezekiel 37 Jacob’s blessings to each son. The end of the patriarchs.

The journeying of Jacob to Egypt and the listing of the genealogy. The fulfillment of Genesis 15.

Jacob blesses Pharaoh - the greater blesses the lesser. Joseph’s faithfulness to Pharaoh - the people give all

they have for life! Joseph provides life to the people by giving back seed. The blessing of Joseph’s children - looking to the

Messianic Kingdom- Ezekiel 37 Jacob’s blessings to each son. The end of the patriarchs.

genesis 37 - joseph narrative

Documents

joseph narrativehow

brothers response

jacoboverview of chapter

josephoverview of chapter

opening of chapter

benjaminoverview of

brothersoverview of

evil sons