The Genesis [Series] Lesson 66 How could this Egyptian ruler know the name of their deceased brother? Why is he claiming to be somebody they know is dead? But if he truly is Joseph, why has he been treating them this way and what will he do to punish them for their sins? They were speechless. Every mouth was stopped as they stood guilty before their judge. But two things should have encouraged them: He was asking them to come closer, something Egyptians didnt do with the Hebrews (Gen. 43:32), and he was weeping uncontrollably. This is now the third time Joseph has wept because of his brothers, but this is the first time publicly. He spoke to them again and not only identified himself as Joseph but also told them what they had done to him! The family secret was a secret no more. Chapter 45 (vv. 5-8). Since Joseph could see his brothers mixed responses of fear and bewilderment, he encouraged them with words that came from a loving and forgiving heart. Yes, they had done wrong and were guilty, yet he told them not to dwell on their sins but on what God had done for all of them. God overruled the brothers hateful attitude and cruel actions and worked it all out for good. Which is the Old Testament version of Romans 8:28.) His brothers were responsible for Josephs sufferings, but God used them to accomplish His divine purposes. The story of Joseph and his brothers encourages us to recognize the sovereignty of God in the affairs of life and to trust His promises no matter how dark the day may be. There are many plans in a mans heart, nevertheless the Lords counsel-that will stand (Prov. 19:21 ). God sent Joseph to Egypt so that Jacobs family could be preserved and the nation of Israel be born and ultimately give the Word of God and the Savior to the world. Since Joseph was lord of all (v. 8; why should his family live in destitution in Canaan? Five more years of famine were ahead of them, and it would be foolish to make repeated trips to Egypt to obtain food. Joseph instructed his brothers to hurry home, give the good news to his father that he was alive, pack whatever belongings they needed, and come to Egypt to live permanently. He promised to protect them and provide for them. The land of Goshen was a fertile area of Egypt where Jacobs family and their descendants could live close to one another without fear. The news was too good to be true, and perhaps some of the brothers exhibited skepticism and hesitation (Luke 24:41). Was this offer just another clever trap, like the hidden grain money and the stolen cup? But Joseph was speaking to them in their own Hebrew tongue and not through an interpreter. and though they hadnt seen him for twenty- two years, surely they could recognize their own brothers voice and manner of speech. At least Benjamin would recognize his own full brother! (vv. 14-15). It wasnt a time for explanations and excuses but for honest expressions of love and forgiveness. Joseph embraced his brothers and kissed them, especially Benjamin, and they all wept together. Because hidden sin had been exposed and dealt with, and forgiveness had been granted, mercy and truth met together, and righteousness and truth kissed each other (Ps. 85:10) that is what happened when we were forgiven , remember!
Posted on: Tue, 12 Aug 2014 02:48:12 +0000
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