Genesis Bible Study notes- Chapter 45 & 46

2/14/12

Genesis 45

-Joseph cannot keep up the charade any longer and sends everyone away but his brothers to reveal himself to them weeping so loudly that the Egyptians heard it with the news even reaching the household of Pharaoh. The Bible tell us that his brothers were greatly disturbed (the sense of the word here would probably be terrified) at, literally, his face. This could mean his appearance stunned them, which it obviously would have. But, I think it indicates the realization to them of Joseph’s power and authority over their lives at this point and how the dreams had come true with justice coming around full circle under the providence of Almighty God.

-At this point Joseph’s grace and mercy shine through as he tells them to come closer to him in a demonstration of kindness and welcome. He told them not to be grieved or angry with themselves because of their deeds in selling him as a slave. The reason was clear now. God had sent Joseph ahead to preserve their lives. The famine was two years in and there would be five more lean years, which would have destroyed the Abrahamic line had not these providential things occurred. This is what Joseph calls, “a great deliverance (Genesis 45:7).” *Application* Jesus is the great Deliverer. He is the one who rescues us from spiritual depravity and offers us new life in Him. Trust His grace and mercy immediately if you have not already.

-Joseph reassures them by stating that it was actually not them who sent him to Egypt, but God. Joseph indeed sees the hand of the LORD in all his life’s dealings and knows that nothing happens apart from His divine and overarching will. *Application* This should be a source of great comfort for our lives. At times life can seem very unfair, complicated, and chaotic, but those who trust in the LORD and are called according to His purpose will have everything turn out good in the end (Romans 8:28). That is a promise of God, which releases us from fear, anxiety, and earthly tension.

-Joseph and his brothers have a sweet reunion at this point as he tells them not to delay in bringing his father’s entire household to Goshen in Egypt for sustenance and prosperity. He weeps with them in loving embrace and they kissed with brotherly affection. The news pleased Pharaoh and he instructs nothing but the best for them in getting the family down to a place of safety during the famine.

-As they depart to get their father and the rest of the family Joseph gives them this advice, “Do not quarrel on the journey (Genesis 45:24).” Joseph knows his brothers and human nature well. This to me is humorous that after all they had been through and were going to undertake, the spoiled little brat brother is the one who is trying to unify them. Spiritually it is awesome to see the progression and maturity of this great man of faith. His leadership skills are very apparent. *Application* Unity is key in any endeavor. We must learn to work together under the direction of the LORD and not quarrel and fight all the time. This has to do with our attitudes and words, which have a tremendous impact on others.

-Joseph’s brothers return to Hebron and bring the incredible news to their father that Joseph is alive and ruling in Egypt. This news obviously stuns Jacob and he does not believe them at first. This family has been known to tell a lie or two J. When Jacob sees the wagons and gifts that the brothers brought from Egypt, his spirit revived and he exclaimed with renewed hope and vigor, “It is enough; my son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die (Genesis 45:28).” *Application* Isn’t it awesome to hear great news? We can all imagine the thrill that went through this old patriarch’s spirit when he heard his son, whom he thought was dead, was alive. Sometimes a good word of hope is all it takes to get a person kick started on their way to great and incredible things. Be a bearer of good tidings wherever you go.

-I was wondering as I read this chapter whether or not Jacob ever got the full story of what happened to get Joseph down to Egypt for the earthly salvation of his family. I wonder if the brothers ever came clean in honesty and confession, or if they took those events and hid them from their father, as children will sometimes do, until the end of his life. In my pondering of this dilemma, I believe they never told him. To my knowledge the Scripture never states that he knew of the brothers selling Joseph into slavery. Thus, Israel had more incentive to bless Judah with the Messianic promise at the end of his life (Genesis 37:26-27; 49:10). Who knows?

Verse to memorize: Genesis 45:28

2/14/12

Genesis 46 

-Israel sets out with all he had and came to Beersheba, where he offered a sacrifice unto the LORD of his father Isaac. God reveals Himself to Israel again here in visions of the night instructing him not to be afraid and to go ahead down to Egypt. God promised he would surely bring him back up again to Canaan and that Joseph would close his eyes (be with him in his time of death). They go on to the land of Goshen.

-The record of all the family is listed. There were 66 people in all who went down to Egypt and there they met up with Joseph’s four in his family to make 70. There would be an estimated million or so when they left Egypt 400 years later.

-Judah, the brother of surety, is sent ahead to point them to Goshen and get Joseph. Joseph prepared his chariot and went up to Goshen to meet his father Israel in a magnificent reunion. As soon as he appeared before him, he fell on his neck and wept for a long time. *Application* Seeing someone we love dearly after a long absence is one of the great joys in life. The old saying is true, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”

-Joseph instructs his family to maintain their identity as shepherds and keepers of livestock. The reason for this is simple. The Egyptians loathed shepherds, which would keep Israel’s people distinct in the land of Goshen. This becomes a trademark of Jewish people as the LORD keeps them separated for His salvific purposes.

Verse to memorize: Genesis 46:29

Genesis Bible Study notes- Chapter 44

2/13/12

Genesis 44

-Joseph commands that his brother’s sacks be filled with as much grain as they could carry and each man’s money was returned to them in the mouth of the sack. He also had his house steward put his silver cup in Benjamin’s bag because he had a plan to retrieve them probably in an effort to keep his younger, biological brother.

-It is fascinating and perplexing the references to this cup as being used for divination (Genesis 44:5, 15). Divination is clearly outlawed in the Law of the LORD (Deuteronomy 18:9-13, 1 Samuel 15:23, 2 Kings 17:17; 21:6, Jeremiah 14:14, Acts 16:16) It is reasonable to say that Joseph is using these statements as a gimmick to play his role as the Egyptian so that they would not suspect him to be their brother. Why Joseph carried this play acting out to such an extent is unknown and should be considered a sin on his part again in the realm of dishonesty. Joseph would not have ever needed an omen like this silver cup to predict the future because of his relationship with God. He had already clearly and courageously stated that every interpretation belongs to the LORD (Genesis 40:8; 41:16).

-The brothers are of course dumbfounded when they are questioned about the cup and welcome any search for the missing item. They agree to the grievous nature of stealing from this high official and the penalty of slavery if caught never suspecting that it would be Benjamin who would be found with the good.

-When the cup is found in Benjamin’s bag, the brothers tear their clothes as a sign of terrible anguish and returned to the city worried and afraid. They fall to the ground before Joseph and plead mercy.

-It is here that Judah takes his stand as one of the greats of the sons of Israel. He takes the responsibility for his brother as he said he would do (Genesis 43:8-9). He relates the story of his old father and how news of Benjamin becoming a slave in Egypt would more than likely destroy the earthly life of Israel in sorrow. Judah claims his surety for the lad, Benjamin, and wants to bear the blame for his supposed misconduct for the fear that evil would overtake his father if his youngest son did not return. *Application* We see heroic action here on the part of Judah in wanting to take the punishment for his brother. The giving of his life, the innocent for the guilty, is the mark of the Messianic line, which he would be blessed with soon (Genesis 49:10). When Shiloh comes, Jesus tells that there is no greater love than that one give his life for his friends (John 15:13). This self-sacrificing attitude should not only be demonstrated by our Savior, but us as well. Who are you willing to lay your life and good times down to?

-One final thought, Israel is referred to as the servant of Joseph three times in this passage (Genesis 44:24, 27, 30). This is simply fulfillment of the prophetic dream of Joseph in Genesis 37:9-11).

Verse to memorize: Genesis 44:32

Genesis Bible Study notes- Chapter 43

2/12/12

Genesis 43

-Israel and his family were not quick in returning to Egypt to get Simeon, the ransomed brother. The hesitation was the issue of taking Benjamin away and the uncertainty of his well being. But the famine got so severe in the land of Canaan that drastic measures had to be considered and acted upon. The decision to go back to buy a little food was finally made simply because their food had run out and the prospect of starvation was very real.

-There is an interesting discussion between Israel and his sons as they communicate on the return requirements laid down by “the man” (Joseph unbeknownst to them). Israel doesn’t understand why they didn’t lie about the reality of their youngest brother. *Application* Honesty is always the best policy. If the brothers would have lied about their youngest brother, Joseph would have been aware of their deception anyway. What we think is a way out usually simply is not. We need to trust God with the facts of the matter and receive His just rewards.

-The trend of dishonesty continues to run through the textual tread and storyline in this patriarchal family. It seems as if the deceptive nature never ends, which further clarifies for us the fallen nature of man and the righteous of God to be faithful to the unfaithful.

-Israel’s sons make a good case for their forthright answers to “the man,” and Judah steps forward and puts his life on the line for the surety of his younger brother, Benjamin. This is our first indication of the greatness of this all important son of Israel who would carry the Messianic line. There seems to have been a spiritual change in Judah to bring him to this point where he would be willing to lay down his life for the security and well being of another. He takes on the responsibility for his brother’s safety and will take the blame. The theological and prophetical implications of this event cannot be overstated. This is HUGE! It sets up the blessing upon his life in Genesis 49:8-12. *Application* At this point let us review an important equation. Fear of God + Trusting in Him + Obedience to Him = Blessings of the LORD. I believe Judah realized all these important elements at this point of his life and you can too!

-Israel reluctantly agrees to send them back with Benjamin when he sees no other better option. He has come to the end of himself and is bereaved. He calls upon the LORD for compassion and gives them double the money (to pay back for the sums of money put back in their original bags). He provides the best gifts available and sends them off on their trip.

-The scene shifts back down to Egypt as the brothers stand once again before Joseph without recognizing who he actually is. Joseph has a feast prepared for them and puts them at ease of their guilty consciences and fears. *Application* People with the propensity for deception live in constant fear of getting caught. Oh that we would realize the peace of mind of living in our integrity and trust in the LORD to provide in all situations. God never fails and rescues His righteous ones.

-Joseph is careful to find out about the well being of their father, and the brothers bow before him in homage (fulfillment of the prophetic dreams, Genesis 37:5-11). There is also an emotional reuniting with his biological brother Benjamin, but Joseph has to hide his face because the time has not yet come to reveal himself to them. He composes himself for the feast and dines with them to their amazement. Benjamin is given a portion five times greater than his brothers, but all ate and drank freely.

Verse to memorize: Genesis 43:30

Genesis Bible Study notes- Chapter 42

2/11/12

Genesis 42

-The scene shifts back to Canaan and Jacob’s desperate decision to send ten of his sons to Egypt to buy grain for their survival. God had providentially provided for them and others through the dreams of Pharaoh and the interpretations with wisdom of Joseph.

-Upon their arrival, Joseph immediately recognizes his brothers but disguises himself so that they cannot make him out as their brother. He now is speaking another language and he successfully hides his identity. What a shock and surprise this must have been to Joseph in some respects as his brothers pleaded their cause before him as subservients, but he remembered his dreams and everything began to come together in his righteous mind. God’s plan was becoming apparent.

-It is interesting to note how often Joseph’s ten brothers claim they are “honest men” in the conversations they have. There is perceived skepticism from Joseph as to their truthfulness (for good reason). The virtue of honesty continues to weave its thematic web through the narrative as Joseph accuses them of being spies coming against Egypt.

-Joseph has them put in prison for three days, but then tells them he fears God and will test them to see if they are honest men by sending them back with grain to their household on the condition that one of them stays confined in prison until the youngest brother is brought back to him as proof of their story.

-The ten brothers say to one another, “Truly we are guilty concerning our brother, because we saw the distress of his soul when he pleaded with us, yet we would not listen; therefore this distress has come upon us (Genesis 42:21).” Reuben reminds them of his position back when of not wanting them to sin against the boy and fears the reckoning that is now occurring over his brother’s blood (he is assuming as they all have that Joseph has died). Joseph of course understands everything they are saying even though he is still disguising himself and has an interpreter with him. He turns away from them and weeps. *Application* This is the point of forgiveness, and restoration begins in this all important biblical family. We also need to come to the point in our lives where we see the sin that we have committed and it’s just consequences. We need to turn from our sin and back toward what we know is right in the eyes of God. This is true biblical repentance and is the first step in calling upon the LORD in faith (Acts 3:19; 20:21; 26:20, 2 Corinthians 7:9-10, and many more).

-Simeon is then bound before their eyes and Joseph gave orders to fill their bags with grain along with all the money they had given for their product. This is discovered on their journey back to Canaan and it made their hearts sink because they felt like someone was setting them up and God was against them.

-They return home to their father Jacob and tell him all that occurred in Egypt. Jacob is distressed but Reuben assures him that Benjamin will be taken care of by him for his return. This is a promise of surety and Judah actually is the one who fulfills it (Genesis 44:32). *Application* This matter of surety is a guarantee. It is the same type of promise our LORD gives Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob for His plan of salvation through the Messiah. These are looking forward in faith to the One, Jesus Christ, who is able to take their sins and make them pure before the God of the universe (for more insight on this see… Beach, J. Mark. Christ and the Covenant: Francis Turretin's Federal Theology as a Defense of the Doctrine of Grace. Gottingen: Vandenhoeck and Ruprecht, 2007).

Verse to memorize: Genesis 42:3

Genesis Bible Study notes- Chapter 41

2/10/12

Genesis 41

-In this chapter we see the turning point in Joseph’s life. In the land of his affliction, he is raised up and given incredible honor and power because of the LORD his God.

-Two full years after the cupbearer was released, Pharaoh had a dream that no one could interpret. He was standing by the Nile and seven sleek and fat cows came up from it grazing in the marsh grass. Then seven ugly and emaciated cows came up and ate the healthy cows. Then Pharaoh had a second dream. Seven ears of grain came up on a single stalk that were plump and good. After this seven thin ears scorched by the east wind sprouted up. When Pharaoh awoke, his spirited was troubled and he sought in vain for answers in all the land.

-It was at this point that the cupbearer related his experience when Pharaoh was furious with him and put him in prison where he met Joseph, the interpreter of his dream that came true. He also recounted what happened with the chief baker and the hanging.

-Pharaoh immediately calls for Joseph and after a shave and change of clothes he came before the king of Egypt. Pharaoh speaks of his reputation as an interpreter of dreams. Joseph’s response once again reveals his Godly character. He says, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer (Genesis 41:16).” *Application* God will eventually lift up His servants and those who will give Him ultimate glory.

-Joseph interprets the dreams and reveals that God is showing Pharaoh what is about to take place in the next fourteen years with seven years of blessing and prosperity followed by seven years of famine and incredible worldwide need. The dream was given twice because the matter was determined by God and would happen quickly. Joseph recommends actions to be taken in preparation for the seven lean years and Pharaoh fully supports his ideas.

-In fact Pharaoh is so supportive and realizes that Joseph has the Divine Spirit within him that he places him as second in command in the whole nation with the signet ring, garments of fine linen and the golden necklace. He had Joseph ride in his second chariot and made the people pay him homage.

-Joseph has charge of all the taxation of food in the country and he goes about faithfully fulfilling his duties just as he had done in Potiphar’s house and the jail where he was incarcerated. The Pharaoh had shown great faith and trust in the words of Joseph as to the interpretation of the dream. Pharaoh obviously took the matter seriously and responded as the LORD would have desired. It is unclear if this Pharaoh had a relationship with God, but he no doubt has a great respect for the things of God and acts in accordance to the LORD’s will for the salvation of many lives. For this he is to be highly commended.

-Joseph is given an Egyptian name, Zaphenath-paneah (possibly the Egyptian term for God speaks; He lives). He is also given a wife, Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On (Heliopolis). Before the famine came, Joseph had two sons, Manasseh “making to forget,” and Ephraim “fruitfulness.” God had made him forget all his trouble and his father’s household and made him fruitful in the land of his affliction. These names of his sons represent the faithfulness of God to His servant even in difficult circumstances. *Application* Stay faithful and true to a faithful and true God. He will deliver and rescue.

-The famine comes just as prophesied and people begin to cry out for food and sustenance. Now Joseph opens up all the storehouses in the cities where he had collected. He had authority over all of this from Pharaoh to sell to whomever he chose. The peoples of all the earth came to him because there was food in Egypt. *Application* God works His plan and favors His people in every situation. Trust Him and do not give up hope.

Verse to memorize: Genesis 41:16

Genesis Bible Study notes- Chapter 40

2/9/12

Genesis 40

-Joseph finds himself joined by the cupbearer and baker of the king of Egypt, who had gotten furious with them and put them in the prison of the captain of the bodyguard, Potiphar. Joseph had charge over them as the caretaker and they were there for some time.

-They both had a dream in the same night. Each dream was different with its own interpretation. Joseph noticed their countenance was down and had the presence of mind to ask them what the matter was. They told him about their dreams, but the lack of interpretation bothered them. Then Joseph told them the truth, “Do not interpretations belong to God (Genesis 40:8)?” Then he asked them to tell him their respective dreams. *Application* God gives certain dreams and visions to His people. There will be periods and even eras of silence, but when He is ready to move on the earth He reveals His intentions for His good purposes (Numbers 12:6, Joel 2:28-29, Acts 2:16-17). His Spirit is alive and well in us, His chosen people who know Him.

-The chief cupbearer is given a good interpretation and will soon be a free man. Joseph asked him to remember him before the Pharaoh to get him out of the jail house. He maintained his innocence in Potiphar’s house after his kidnapping in the land of the Hebrews. *Fascinating Biblical Facts* Here we see the term Hebrews beginning to be used with more frequency. Potiphar’s wife referred to Joseph as a Hebrew (Genesis 39:14), and early on Abram is referred to a Hebrew (Genesis 14:13). This raises the question, where does this term “Hebrew” come from? It apparently is an ancestral name of one of Abram’s forefathers. For more explanation see http://www.ancient-hebrew.org/emagazine/003.html, under “Name of the Month, Eber.”

-The chief baker now boldly approaches Joseph with great expectations since the cupbearer had received good news. However, his interpretation was completely opposite. He would soon be hanged, which came about on the third day after this dream on Pharaoh’s birthday as a part of a feast for all his servants.

-The cupbearer was restored to his position at the same time, but he did not remember Joseph, but forgot about him. *Application* When we tell people something, we need to be true to our word and not forgetful. For example, saying that we will pray for someone in a particular situation is important. When we tell people we will pray for them, we need to actually do it, and I would say do it quickly while it is fresh in your mind. The human brain has the propensity to forget things. Be an effectual doer (James 1:23-25).

Verse to memorize: Genesis 40:8

Genesis Bible Study notes- Chapter 39

2/8/12

Genesis 39

-The narrative reverts back to Joseph’s situation in Egypt as a slave in the household of Potiphar, an Egyptian officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the bodyguard. He had been sold by his brothers to Ishmaelite traders and now he was working for his master in Egypt. But, the LORD was with him, so he became a successful man finding God’s favor and blessing in all his work. He soon was in charge of everything in Potiphar’s house, which showed his master’s trust and faith in him as a good steward. The character of Joseph is beginning to show up in the biblical account.

-Joseph had his mother’s good looks and form, which made Potiphar’s wife desire him and want to lie with him. However, Joseph would not “do this great evil and sin against God (Genesis 39:9).” She came on to him day after day, but he did not listen to her enticements. His character was impeccable. *Application* How is our character (what God knows about us when no one else is watching)? We need to follow the example of Joseph here and do right no matter what the situation or person brings in the way of temptation.

-Now it happened one particular day that Joseph went in to work and none of the men of the household were around. *Application* We should never enter a situation with a member of the opposite sex alone who is not our spouse. Too many bad things could happen as we see here in our story even if we have innocent intentions.

-Potiphar’s wife came on strong towards Joseph and she caught him by his garment. Of course, once again Joseph resisted and fled the scene going outside, but he left his garment in his haste. This was the pivotal mistake, and Potiphar’s wife took advantage of it in her jilted state. She screams that her slave has tried to make sport of her and totally lies about what transpired.

-When Joseph’s master came home, his wife lied to him and his anger obviously burned against his slave to the point of throwing him into the jail where the king’s prisoners were confined.

-But this was in the LORD’s will for Joseph’s life and He was still right there with him extending His kindness and blessing upon His righteous servant. *Application* Do not be worried or fearful of being falsely accused. Know that the LORD is still with you even when circumstances may indicate that He is not. God works all things for good to them who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

-Joseph again finds favor with his overseer and is given charge over all the prisoners in the jail. “Whatever was done there, he was responsible for it (Genesis 39:22).” The LORD was indeed with him and working His ultimate plan for salvation. Joseph prospered in tough times (Isaiah 40:31). *Application* He who is faithful in little will also be faithful in much (Luke 16:10). Joseph personifies this as he goes through God’s training school for the bigger tasks that He has for him later down the road. God is a God of order and He won’t put you into any situation you can’t handle. Take the time and have the patience to learn through the processes God takes you through in life. He doesn’t waste experiences!

Verse to memorize: Genesis 39:2