Genesis 43
BSB1 Now the famine was still severe in the land. 2 So when Jacob’s sons had eaten all the grain they had brought from Egypt, their father said to them, “Go back and buy us a little more food." 3 But Judah replied, “The man solemnly warned us, ‘You will not see my face again unless your brother is with you.’ 4 If you will send our brother with us, we will go down and buy food for you. 5 But if you will not send him, we will not go; for the man told us, ‘You will not see my face again unless your brother is with you.’" 6 “Why did you bring this trouble upon me?” Israel asked. “Why did you tell the man you had another brother?" 7 They replied, “The man questioned us in detail about ourselves and our family: ‘Is your father still alive? Do you have another brother?’ And we answered him accordingly. How could we possibly know that he would say, ‘Bring your brother here’?" 8 And Judah said to his father Israel, “Send the boy with me, and we will go at once, so that we may live and not die—neither we, nor you, nor our children. 9 I will guarantee his safety. You may hold me personally responsible. If I do not bring him back and set him before you, then may I bear the guilt before you all my life. 10 If we had not delayed, we could have come and gone twice by now." 11 Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your packs and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds. 12 Take double the silver with you so that you may return the silver that was put back into the mouths of your sacks. Perhaps it was a mistake. 13 Take your brother as well, and return to the man at once. 14 May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man, that he may release your other brother along with Benjamin. As for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved." 15 So the men took these gifts, along with double the amount of silver, and Benjamin as well. Then they hurried down to Egypt and stood before Joseph. 16 When Joseph saw Benjamin with his brothers, he said to the steward of his house, “Take these men to my house. Slaughter an animal and prepare it, for they shall dine with me at noon." 17 The man did as Joseph had commanded and took the brothers to Joseph’s house. 18 But the brothers were frightened that they had been taken to Joseph’s house. “We have been brought here because of the silver that was returned in our bags the first time,” they said. “They intend to overpower us and take us as slaves, along with our donkeys." 19 So they approached Joseph’s steward and spoke to him at the entrance to the house. 20 “Please, sir,” they said, “we really did come down here the first time to buy food. 21 But when we came to the place we lodged for the night, we opened our sacks and, behold, each of us found his silver in the mouth of his sack! It was the full amount of our silver, and we have brought it back with us. 22 We have brought additional silver with us to buy food. We do not know who put our silver in our sacks." 23 “It is fine,” said the steward. “Do not be afraid. Your God, the God of your father, gave you the treasure that was in your sacks. I received your silver.” Then he brought Simeon out to them. 24 And the steward took the men into Joseph’s house, gave them water to wash their feet, and provided food for their donkeys. 25 Since the brothers had been told that they were going to eat a meal there, they prepared their gift for Joseph’s arrival at noon. 26 When Joseph came home, they presented him with the gifts they had brought, and they bowed to the ground before him. 27 He asked if they were well, and then he asked, “How is your elderly father you told me about? Is he still alive?" 28 “Your servant our father is well,” they answered. “He is still alive.” And they bowed down to honor him. 29 When Joseph looked up and saw his brother Benjamin, his own mother’s son, he asked, “Is this your youngest brother, the one you told me about?” Then he declared, “May God be gracious to you, my son." 30 Joseph hurried out because he was moved to tears for his brother, and he went to a private room to weep. 31 Then he washed his face and came back out. Regaining his composure, he said, “Serve the meal." 32 They separately served Joseph, his brothers, and the Egyptians. They ate separately because the Egyptians would not eat with the Hebrews, since that was detestable to them. 33 They were seated before Joseph in order by age, from the firstborn to the youngest, and the men looked at one another in astonishment. 34 When the portions were served to them from Joseph’s table, Benjamin’s portion was five times larger than any of the others. So they feasted and drank freely with Joseph.
Study Notes — Genesis 43
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Genesis 43
- Themes from Genesis 43
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Genesis 43
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with the report of the brothers to Jacob about their first visit to Egypt, including the demand to bring Benjamin back with them (Genesis 43:1-5). Jacob reluctantly agrees, and the brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin, where they are warmly received by Joseph (Genesis 43:6-25). Joseph tests their character by accusing them of spying and imprisoning Simeon, but they pass the test by showing concern for their brother and taking responsibility for their actions (Genesis 43:14, 26-34). The chapter concludes with Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin and his decision to reveal his identity to his brothers, setting the stage for the events of the next chapter.
Context for the Chapter
Genesis 43 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Genesis, which tells the story of creation, the early history of humanity, and the story of the patriarchs. The chapter is also part of the larger story of the Bible, which culminates in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The events of Genesis 43 set the stage for the eventual reunion of the family and the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Heart Application
The narrative of Genesis 43 encourages readers to trust in God's sovereignty and providence, even in the midst of uncertainty and potential danger. It also highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and demonstrating concern for others, as seen in the brothers' care for Benjamin. As we face our own challenges and uncertainties, we can learn from the example of Jacob and the brothers, who trusted in God's mercy and providence.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Genesis 43 tells the story of Jacob's sons returning to Egypt with Benjamin, where they are tested by Joseph and ultimately pass the test. The chapter highlights God's sovereignty and providence, as He works out the details to bring about the good of the brothers and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity. As we read this chapter, we can learn to trust in God's mercy and providence, even in the midst of uncertainty and potential danger.
Voices from the Church
“The Lord's ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. He often brings about great blessings through great difficulties, and He can turn even the darkest night into a bright and glorious morning.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The providence of God is the sovereign and all-wise governance of all things, whereby He directs and disposes all events to the accomplishment of His own purposes and the glory of His own name.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction (Genesis 43:1-5) — The chapter begins with the report of the brothers to Jacob about their first visit to Egypt, including the demand to bring Benjamin back with them.
- The Brothers' Second Journey to Egypt (Genesis 43:6-14) — The brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin, where they are warmly received by Joseph.
- The Testing of the Brothers (Genesis 43:14-25) — Joseph tests the brothers by accusing them of spying and imprisoning Simeon, but they pass the test by showing concern for their brother and taking responsibility for their actions.
- Joseph's Emotional Response (Genesis 43:26-31) — Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlights the depth of his love and compassion for his family, despite their past betrayals.
- Conclusion (Genesis 43:32-34) — The chapter concludes with Joseph's decision to reveal his identity to his brothers, setting the stage for the events of the next chapter.
Core Doctrines
- Providence
- The narrative of Genesis 43 demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence, as He works out the details to bring about the good of the brothers and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity.
- Redemption
- The chapter points to the larger story of God's redemption, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Just as Joseph's actions, though seemingly harsh, were part of a larger plan to bring about the good of his brothers, God's sovereignty and providence work together for the good of those who love Him.
- Forgiveness
- The narrative of Genesis 43 highlights the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation, which is central to the gospel message, as seen in Jesus' teaching on forgiveness and reconciliation.
- Sovereignty
- The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty, as He works out the details to bring about the good of the brothers and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity.
Lessons from Genesis 43
- Lesson 1: Trust in God's Sovereignty — The narrative of Genesis 43 teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and providence, even in the midst of uncertainty and potential danger.
- Lesson 2: Take Responsibility for Your Actions — The chapter highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and demonstrating concern for others, as seen in the brothers' care for Benjamin.
- Lesson 3: Forgive and Reconcile — The narrative of Genesis 43 highlights the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation, which is central to the gospel message, as seen in Jesus' teaching on forgiveness and reconciliation.
- Lesson 4: Depend on God's Mercy — The chapter teaches us to depend on God's mercy and providence, even in the midst of uncertainty and potential danger, as seen in Jacob's trust in God's sovereignty.
- Lesson 5: Cultivate Love and Compassion — Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlights the importance of cultivating love and compassion for others, despite their past betrayals or failures.
Themes from Genesis 43
- Theme 1: God's Sovereignty — The narrative of Genesis 43 demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence, as He works out the details to bring about the good of the brothers and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity.
- Theme 2: Forgiveness and Reconciliation — The chapter highlights the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation, which is central to the gospel message, as seen in Jesus' teaching on forgiveness and reconciliation.
- Theme 3: Dependence on God — The chapter teaches us to depend on God's mercy and providence, even in the midst of uncertainty and potential danger, as seen in Jacob's trust in God's sovereignty.
- Theme 4: Love and Compassion — Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlights the importance of cultivating love and compassion for others, despite their past betrayals or failures.
- Theme 5: Redemption — The chapter points to the larger story of God's redemption, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Just as Joseph's actions, though seemingly harsh, were part of a larger plan to bring about the good of his brothers, God's sovereignty and providence work together for the good of those who love Him.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from the brothers' growth in character, and how can we apply this to our own lives?
- How does Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlight the depth of his love and compassion for his family?
- What does the narrative of Genesis 43 teach us about God's sovereignty and providence, and how can we trust in these attributes in our own lives?
- How does the chapter highlight the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation, and what implications does this have for our relationships with others?
- What can we learn from Jacob's dependence on God's mercy and providence, and how can we cultivate this same dependence in our own lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction (Genesis 43:1-5)
| Genesis 43:1 | The chapter begins with the report of the brothers to Jacob about their first visit to Egypt, including the demand to bring Benjamin back with them. |
| Genesis 43:2 | The brothers return to Jacob and tell him about the demand to bring Benjamin back with them. |
2. The Brothers' Second Journey to Egypt (Genesis 43:6-14)
| Genesis 43:6 | The brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin, where they are warmly received by Joseph. |
| Genesis 43:8 | Judah speaks up and takes responsibility for bringing Benjamin back to Egypt, demonstrating his growth in character. |
3. The Testing of the Brothers (Genesis 43:14-25)
| Genesis 43:14 | Joseph tests the brothers by accusing them of spying and imprisoning Simeon, but they pass the test by showing concern for their brother and taking responsibility for their actions. |
| Genesis 43:16 | The brothers are invited to eat with Joseph, but they are separated from the Egyptians, highlighting the cultural and social differences between the two groups. |
4. Joseph's Emotional Response (Genesis 43:26-31)
| Genesis 43:26 | Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlights the depth of his love and compassion for his family, despite their past betrayals. |
| Genesis 43:29 | Joseph is deeply moved by the sight of his brother Benjamin and is forced to leave the room to compose himself. |
5. Conclusion (Genesis 43:32-34)
| Genesis 43:32 | The chapter concludes with Joseph's decision to reveal his identity to his brothers, setting the stage for the events of the next chapter. |
| Genesis 43:34 | The brothers are given a banquet, and Benjamin is given a larger portion, highlighting Joseph's favor towards him. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the brothers' second journey to Egypt?
The brothers' second journey to Egypt represents their growth in character and their willingness to face the consequences of their past actions, as they return with Benjamin and are tested by Joseph (Genesis 43:1-14).
Why does Joseph test the brothers?
Joseph tests the brothers to see if they have changed and are willing to take responsibility for their actions, as well as to prepare them for the eventual revelation of his identity (Genesis 43:14-25).
What is the significance of Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin?
Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlights the depth of his love and compassion for his family, despite their past betrayals, and sets the stage for the eventual reunion of the family (Genesis 43:26-31).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 43:1 → Psalm 37:3-7 | The chapter begins with the report of the brothers to Jacob about their first visit to Egypt, which is similar to the theme of trusting in God's sovereignty and providence found in Psalm 37:3-7. |
| 2 | Genesis 43:14 → Romans 8:28 | Joseph's testing of the brothers is similar to the theme of God's sovereignty and providence found in Romans 8:28, where Paul writes that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him. |
| 3 | Genesis 43:26 → John 13:1 | Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin is similar to the theme of love and compassion found in John 13:1, where Jesus washes the feet of His disciples and demonstrates His love for them. |
| 4 | Genesis 43:32 → Luke 15:20-24 | The chapter concludes with Joseph's decision to reveal his identity to his brothers, which is similar to the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation found in Luke 15:20-24, where the prodigal son is forgiven and welcomed back by his father. |
| 5 | Genesis 43:1-5 → Matthew 6:25-34 | The brothers' concern for food and their trust in God's provision is similar to the theme of trusting in God's provision found in Matthew 6:25-34, where Jesus teaches about seeking first the kingdom of God and trusting in His provision. |
| 6 | Genesis 43:6-14 → Hebrews 11:1-3 | The brothers' faith and trust in God's sovereignty and providence is similar to the theme of faith found in Hebrews 11:1-3, where the author writes about the faith of the patriarchs and their trust in God's promises. |
| 7 | Genesis 43:14-25 → 1 Peter 1:6-7 | Joseph's testing of the brothers is similar to the theme of refining and testing found in 1 Peter 1:6-7, where Peter writes about the refining fire of trials and the testing of our faith. |
| 8 | Genesis 43:26-31 → Psalm 103:8-14 | Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin is similar to the theme of God's love and compassion found in Psalm 103:8-14, where the psalmist writes about God's mercy and compassion towards His people. |
| 9 | Genesis 43:32-34 → John 1:1-14 | The chapter concludes with Joseph's decision to reveal his identity to his brothers, which is similar to the theme of revelation and redemption found in John 1:1-14, where Jesus is revealed as the Word of God and the Savior of the world. |
| 10 | Genesis 43:1-34 → Romans 5:1-5 | The narrative of Genesis 43 is similar to the theme of redemption and forgiveness found in Romans 5:1-5, where Paul writes about the peace and reconciliation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. |
Sermons on Genesis 43
| Sermon | Description | |
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(Genesis) Genesis 44:16-17 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the 44th chapter of Genesis, which tells the story of Joseph and his brothers. The brothers have come to Egypt to buy corn, and Joseph tests |
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(Genesis) Genesis 43:31-34 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joseph and his brothers from the book of Genesis. He highlights the moment when Joseph reveals himself to his brothers after yea |
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(Genesis) Genesis 43:24-30 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the emotional reunion between Joseph and his brothers. Joseph is overwhelmed with emotion and quickly leaves the room to weep in private. He |
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(Genesis) Genesis 43:1-15 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the dramatic section of the book of Genesis where Benjamin appears before Joseph. The famine in the land forces Jacob to send his sons back |
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(Genesis) Genesis 43:16-23 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the guilt complex that Joseph's brothers have after selling him into slavery. The brothers are invited to dine with Joseph, but they are fille |
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Joseph Reminds Me of Jesus-05 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for people to give up their sins and choose Christ. He uses the analogy of chains of sin that bind individuals and urges them to ex |
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The Peaceable Fruit by Watchman Nee | Watchman Nee explores the transformative journey of Jacob, illustrating how God's discipline reshaped him from a self-serving schemer into a loving and mature individual. Through e |
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The Fear Nots of the Old and New Testament. by Andrew Bonar | Andrew Bonar emphasizes the recurring theme of 'Fear Not' throughout the Bible, illustrating how God's promises are fulfilled in Christ Jesus. He highlights various instances where |
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1 Thessalonians 3:5-8 by St. John Chrysostom | John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of faith, love, and the need for continual growth in holiness. He emphasizes the role of love in overcoming temptations and the power |
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A Little Honey Sweet - Gen. 43:11 by Bernard Fell | Bernard Fell preaches on the story of Joseph and his brothers from Genesis 43:11, highlighting the act of kindness and love shown by the sons of Jacob when they carried down a pres |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Genesis 43
In this chapter, we see the brothers returning to Egypt with Benjamin, where they are tested by Joseph and ultimately pass the test. This narrative teaches us about God's sovereignty and providence, as He works out the details to bring about the good of the brothers and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity. We also see the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation, as Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlights the depth of his love and compassion for his family. As we read this chapter, we are reminded to trust in God's sovereignty and providence, even in the midst of uncertainty and potential danger, and to cultivate love and compassion for others, despite their past betrayals or failures. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Brothers' Growth
The brothers demonstrate growth in character, as they show concern for Benjamin and take responsibility for their actions. This growth is a result of God's refining work in their lives, as they face the consequences of their past actions and learn to trust in His sovereignty.
Joseph's Emotional Response
Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin highlights the depth of his love and compassion for his family, despite their past betrayals. This response foreshadows the eventual revelation of his identity and the reunion of the family.
God's Sovereignty
The narrative of Genesis 43 demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence, as He works out the details to bring about the good of the brothers and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity.