Genesis 42:1-38

JOSEPH BEGINS TO TEST HIS BROTHERS

Keywords 42:21

They said to one another, "Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw how distressed he was when he pleaded with us for his life, but we would not listen; that's why this distress has come upon us."

 

1. Joseph sees his brothers again (1-24)

The famine afflicted the land of Canaan also, so Jacob sent all of his remaining

sons except Benjamin to Egypt to buy food. When they saw Joseph, they did not

recognize him and bowed down, fulfilling Joseph’s dream from many years before.

Joseph spoke harshly to them and demanded that they return home and bring

back Benjamin, keeping Simeon as prisoner. Joseph overheard their remorseful

confession and was moved to tears.

 

2. Another test (25-38)

Because Joseph genuinely cared for his family, he sent grain back with his

brothers and also gave back their money. But even this kindness became

another test for the brothers; they were terrified that Joseph would accuse them

of stealing. Jacob also revealed his deep fatalism. Joseph had no desire to get

revenge on his brothers, because he lived before God. But he knew the sin in their

hearts. He used his authority from God to help repent.

 

Prayer Father, thank you for convicting me of sin, even when it is painful. Help

me be purified within.

One Word God touches our conscience to repent