Genesis 47
BSB1 So Joseph went and told Pharaoh: “My father and my brothers, with their flocks and herds and all they own, have come from the land of Canaan and are now in Goshen." 2 And he chose five of his brothers and presented them before Pharaoh. 3 “What is your occupation?” Pharaoh asked Joseph’s brothers. “Your servants are shepherds,” they replied, “both we and our fathers." 4 Then they said to Pharaoh, “We have come to live in the land for a time, because there is no pasture for the flocks of your servants, since the famine in the land of Canaan has been severe. So now, please allow your servants to settle in the land of Goshen." 5 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Now that your father and brothers have come to you, 6 the land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and brothers in the best part of the land. They may dwell in the land of Goshen. And if you know of any talented men among them, put them in charge of my own livestock." 7 Then Joseph brought in his father Jacob and presented him before Pharaoh, and Jacob blessed Pharaoh. 8 “How many years have you lived?” Pharaoh asked. 9 “My travels have lasted 130 years,” Jacob replied. “My years have been few and hard, and they have not matched the years of the travels of my fathers." 10 Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh and departed from his presence. 11 So Joseph settled his father and brothers in the land of Egypt and gave them property in the best part of the land, the district of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. 12 Joseph also provided his father and brothers and all his father’s household with food for their families. 13 There was no food, however, in all that region, because the famine was so severe; the lands of Egypt and Canaan had been exhausted by the famine. 14 Joseph collected all the money to be found in the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan in exchange for the grain they were buying, and he brought it into Pharaoh’s palace. 15 When the money from the lands of Egypt and Canaan was gone, all the Egyptians came to Joseph and said, “Give us food. Why should we die before your eyes? For our funds have run out!" 16 “Then bring me your livestock,” said Joseph. “Since the money is gone, I will sell you food in exchange for your livestock." 17 So they brought their livestock to Joseph, and he gave them food in exchange for their horses, their flocks and herds, and their donkeys. Throughout that year he provided them with food in exchange for all their livestock. 18 When that year was over, they came to him the second year and said, “We cannot hide from our lord that our money is gone and all our livestock belongs to you. There is nothing left for our lord except our bodies and our land. 19 Why should we perish before your eyes—we and our land as well? Purchase us and our land in exchange for food. Then we, along with our land, will be slaves to Pharaoh. Give us seed that we may live and not die, and that the land may not become desolate." 20 So Joseph acquired for Pharaoh all the land in Egypt; the Egyptians, one and all, sold their fields because the famine was so severe upon them. The land became Pharaoh’s, 21 and Joseph reduced the people to servitude from one end of Egypt to the other. 22 However, he did not acquire the priests’ portion of the land, for it had been given to them by Pharaoh. They ate the rations that Pharaoh supplied; so they did not sell their land. 23 Then Joseph said to the people, “Now that I have acquired you and your land for Pharaoh this day, here is seed for you to sow in the land. 24 At harvest time, you are to give a fifth of it to Pharaoh, and four-fifths will be yours as seed for the field and food for yourselves and your households and children." 25 “You have saved our lives,” they said. “We have found favor in our lord’s eyes, and we will be Pharaoh’s servants." 26 So Joseph established a law that a fifth of the produce belongs to Pharaoh, and it is in effect in the land of Egypt to this day. Only the priests’ land does not belong to Pharaoh. 27 Now the Israelites settled in the land of Egypt, in the region of Goshen. They acquired property there and became fruitful and increased greatly in number. 28 And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years, and the length of his life was 147 years. 29 When the time drew near for Israel to die, he called his son Joseph and said to him, “If I have found favor in your eyes, put your hand under my thigh and promise to show me kindness and faithfulness. Do not bury me in Egypt, 30 but when I lie down with my fathers, carry me out of Egypt and bury me with them.” Joseph answered, “I will do as you have requested." 31 “Swear to me,” Jacob said. So Joseph swore to him, and Israel bowed in worship at the head of his bed.
Study Notes — Genesis 47
- 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 47
- Themes from Genesis 47
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Genesis 47
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Genesis 47 begins with Joseph presenting his brothers to Pharaoh, who welcomes them and offers them the best of the land (Genesis 47:1-6). Joseph then settles his family in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded, and provides for them during the famine (Genesis 47:7-12). As the famine worsens, Joseph implements a plan to store up grain and eventually buys up all the land in Egypt for Pharaoh, except for the priests' lands (Genesis 47:13-26). The chapter concludes with Jacob's blessing and his request to be buried in the cave of Machpelah, which Joseph promises to fulfill (Genesis 47:27-31). Throughout the chapter, we see God's hand guiding and providing for Joseph and his family, even in the midst of trial and hardship.
Context for the Chapter
Genesis 47 is part of the larger narrative of Genesis, which tells the story of creation, the early history of humanity, and the patriarchs of the Israelites. This chapter follows the story of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become a high-ranking official in Egypt. The chapter sets the stage for the Israelites' eventual migration to Egypt and their subsequent slavery, which will be redeemed by God through the Exodus.
Heart Application
As we read Genesis 47, we are reminded of God's providence and care for His people, even in times of trial and hardship. We can apply this truth to our own lives by trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult. By putting our trust in Him, we can experience peace and confidence, knowing that He is working all things together for our good.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Genesis 47 tells the story of Joseph and his family, who were forced to move to Egypt because of a famine. Joseph, who was a high-ranking official in Egypt, helped his family settle in the land and provided for them during the famine. This chapter reminds us that God is always working to provide for and protect His people, even in difficult circumstances. As we read in Genesis 47:25, Joseph's brothers acknowledged that he had saved their lives, and we can trust in God's provision and care for us as well.
Voices from the Church
“The Lord's people are never in darkness, for He is their light; and even in the darkest night, His presence is their consolation.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The providence of God is the sovereign and all-embracing government of all things, which He exercises over the world and all its creatures.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Joseph Presents His Brothers to Pharaoh (Genesis 47:1-6) — Joseph presents his brothers to Pharaoh, who welcomes them and offers them the best of the land.
- Joseph Settles His Family in the Land (Genesis 47:7-12) — Joseph settles his family in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded, and provides for them during the famine.
- The Famine Worsens and Joseph Implements a Plan (Genesis 47:13-26) — As the famine worsens, Joseph implements a plan to store up grain and eventually buys up all the land in Egypt for Pharaoh, except for the priests' lands.
- Jacob's Blessing and Request (Genesis 47:27-31) — The chapter concludes with Jacob's blessing and his request to be buried in the cave of Machpelah, which Joseph promises to fulfill.
- Conclusion and Transition (Genesis 47:27-31) — The chapter sets the stage for the Israelites' eventual migration to Egypt and their subsequent slavery, which will be redeemed by God through the Exodus.
Core Doctrines
- Providence
- Genesis 47 teaches us about God's providence and care for His people, even in times of trial and hardship. We see how God works all things together for good, even when circumstances seem bleak.
- Stewardship
- The chapter also teaches us about the importance of stewardship and responsible management of resources. Joseph's plan to store up grain and provide for his family during the famine demonstrates his trust in God and his commitment to caring for those in need.
- Faith
- Genesis 47 emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty and provision. Joseph's story demonstrates how God can use difficult circumstances to bring about good and to refine our faith.
- Family
- The chapter highlights the importance of family and the need to care for one another, especially in times of trial. Joseph's actions demonstrate the value of putting others before oneself and trusting in God's provision.
Lessons from Genesis 47
- God's Providence — We can learn to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in difficult circumstances, by studying Joseph's story in Genesis 47.
- Stewardship — The chapter teaches us about the importance of responsible management of resources and caring for those in need.
- Faith — Genesis 47 emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult.
- Family — The chapter highlights the importance of family and the need to care for one another, especially in times of trial.
- Redemption — The chapter sets the stage for the Israelites' eventual migration to Egypt and their subsequent slavery, which will be redeemed by God through the Exodus.
Themes from Genesis 47
- Providence — Genesis 47 teaches us about God's providence and care for His people, even in times of trial and hardship.
- Stewardship — The chapter emphasizes the importance of responsible management of resources and caring for those in need.
- Faith — The chapter highlights the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult.
- Family — Genesis 47 emphasizes the importance of family and the need to care for one another, especially in times of trial.
- Redemption — The chapter sets the stage for the Israelites' eventual migration to Egypt and their subsequent slavery, which will be redeemed by God through the Exodus.
Questions for Meditation
- How does Genesis 47 demonstrate God's providence and care for His people?
- What can we learn from Joseph's character and actions in this chapter?
- How does the theme of family relate to our own lives and relationships?
- What are some ways we can trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in difficult circumstances?
- How does Genesis 47 set the stage for the Israelites' eventual migration to Egypt and their subsequent slavery?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Joseph Presents His Brothers to Pharaoh (Genesis 47:1-6)
| Genesis 47:1 | Joseph presents his brothers to Pharaoh, who welcomes them and offers them the best of the land. |
| Genesis 47:2 | Joseph selects five of his brothers to present to Pharaoh, who is pleased with them and offers them the best of the land. |
| Genesis 47:3 | Pharaoh asks Joseph's brothers about their occupation, and they reply that they are shepherds. |
| Genesis 47:4 | Joseph's brothers ask Pharaoh for permission to settle in the land, and he grants their request. |
| Genesis 47:5 | Pharaoh tells Joseph to settle his brothers in the best of the land, and Joseph does so. |
| Genesis 47:6 | Pharaoh welcomes Joseph's brothers and offers them the best of the land, which they accept. |
2. Joseph Settles His Family in the Land (Genesis 47:7-12)
| Genesis 47:7 | Joseph settles his family in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. |
| Genesis 47:8 | Joseph provides for his family during the famine, and they prosper in the land. |
| Genesis 47:9 | Jacob tells Pharaoh about his life and his years, and Pharaoh is pleased with him. |
| Genesis 47:10 | Jacob blesses Pharaoh, and Pharaoh is grateful for his presence. |
| Genesis 47:11 | Joseph settles his family in the best of the land, and they prosper. |
| Genesis 47:12 | Joseph provides for his family during the famine, and they are grateful for his care. |
3. The Famine Worsens and Joseph Implements a Plan (Genesis 47:13-26)
| Genesis 47:13 | The famine worsens, and Joseph implements a plan to store up grain and provide for the people. |
| Genesis 47:14 | Joseph buys up all the money in Egypt and Canaan, and the people become dependent on him for food. |
| Genesis 47:15 | The people come to Joseph and ask for food, and he provides for them. |
| Genesis 47:16 | Joseph buys up all the land in Egypt, except for the priests' lands, and the people become servants of Pharaoh. |
| Genesis 47:17 | Joseph buys up all the animals in Egypt, and the people become dependent on him for their livelihood. |
| Genesis 47:18 | The people come to Joseph and ask for food, and he provides for them. |
| Genesis 47:19 | Joseph buys up all the land in Egypt, and the people become servants of Pharaoh. |
| Genesis 47:20 | Joseph buys up all the people in Egypt, and they become servants of Pharaoh. |
| Genesis 47:21 | Joseph settles the people in the cities, and they become servants of Pharaoh. |
| Genesis 47:22 | Joseph buys up all the land in Egypt, except for the priests' lands, and the people become servants of Pharaoh. |
| Genesis 47:23 | Joseph provides for the people during the famine, and they prosper. |
| Genesis 47:24 | Joseph takes a fifth of the produce as taxes, and the people are grateful for his care. |
| Genesis 47:25 | The people thank Joseph for saving their lives, and they acknowledge his provision and care. |
| Genesis 47:26 | Joseph makes a law that a fifth of the produce will be given to Pharaoh, and the people accept this law. |
4. Jacob's Blessing and Request (Genesis 47:27-31)
| Genesis 47:27 | Israel settles in the land of Egypt, and they prosper. |
| Genesis 47:28 | Jacob lives in Egypt for 17 years, and he blesses his sons before his death. |
| Genesis 47:29 | Jacob calls for Joseph and asks him to swear an oath to bury him in the cave of Machpelah. |
| Genesis 47:30 | Joseph swears an oath to bury Jacob in the cave of Machpelah, and Jacob is comforted. |
| Genesis 47:31 | Jacob worships God, and Joseph is grateful for his father's blessing and request. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Joseph's brothers being presented to Pharaoh?
The presentation of Joseph's brothers to Pharaoh signifies the beginning of the Israelites' migration to Egypt and their eventual slavery, which will be redeemed by God through the Exodus (Genesis 47:1-6).
How does Joseph provide for his family during the famine?
Joseph provides for his family by storing up grain and implementing a plan to care for them during the famine (Genesis 47:7-12).
What is the outcome of the famine in Egypt?
The famine leads to Joseph's plan to store up grain and provide for the people, resulting in the people becoming dependent on him for food and the land being bought up by Pharaoh (Genesis 47:13-26).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 47:1 → Acts 7:10 | The presentation of Joseph's brothers to Pharaoh is referenced in Acts 7:10, where Stephen recounts the history of the Israelites. |
| 2 | Genesis 47:6 → Genesis 46:34 | The land of Rameses, where Joseph settles his family, is also mentioned in Genesis 46:34, where Jacob and his sons settle in the land. |
| 3 | Genesis 47:11 → Genesis 45:10 | The land of Rameses, where Joseph settles his family, is also mentioned in Genesis 45:10, where Joseph tells his brothers to settle in the best of the land. |
| 4 | Genesis 47:13 → Genesis 41:30 | The famine in Genesis 47:13 is the same famine that Joseph had predicted in Genesis 41:30, where he interprets Pharaoh's dreams. |
| 5 | Genesis 47:20 → Leviticus 25:23 | The concept of buying and selling land in Genesis 47:20 is also referenced in Leviticus 25:23, where God instructs the Israelites not to sell their land permanently. |
| 6 | Genesis 47:22 → Genesis 41:34 | The plan to store up grain in Genesis 47:22 is similar to the plan that Joseph had proposed in Genesis 41:34, where he advises Pharaoh to store up grain during the years of plenty. |
| 7 | Genesis 47:25 → Ruth 2:10 | The phrase 'you have saved our lives' in Genesis 47:25 is similar to the phrase in Ruth 2:10, where Ruth thanks Boaz for saving her life. |
| 8 | Genesis 47:27 → Genesis 46:3 | The settlement of Israel in Egypt in Genesis 47:27 is also mentioned in Genesis 46:3, where God appears to Israel and tells him to go down to Egypt. |
| 9 | Genesis 47:29 → Genesis 50:5 | The request of Jacob to be buried in the cave of Machpelah in Genesis 47:29 is also mentioned in Genesis 50:5, where Joseph swears an oath to bury his father in the cave. |
| 10 | Genesis 47:31 → Genesis 22:5 | The worship of Jacob in Genesis 47:31 is similar to the worship of Abraham in Genesis 22:5, where Abraham worships God before sacrificing his son Isaac. |
Sermons on Genesis 47
| Sermon | Description | |
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(Genesis) Genesis 47:10-14 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a friend who was initially ashamed of his preacher father. However, after going to college and entering the business world |
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(Genesis) Genesis 47:15-26 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joseph and the famine in Egypt. He explains that Jacob and his family had to move to Egypt because Canaan was suffering from the |
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(Genesis) Genesis 47:27-31 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joseph in the Bible, specifically on how he managed the famine in Egypt. The sermon begins by highlighting how the Egyptians an |
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(Genesis) Genesis 47:7-9 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the transformation of Jacob and his encounter with Pharaoh. Jacob, who was known for his deceitful nature, has now become a witness for God. |
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(Genesis) Genesis 47:1-6 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Joseph and his family's arrival in Egypt during a time of famine. Joseph strategically places his family in the land of Goshen, |
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Genesis #25 Ch. 46-48 & 50 Jacob's & Joseph's Faith by Chuck Missler | In this sermon, Chuck Missler discusses Genesis chapters 46, 47, 48, and 50. He highlights the provision of God for His people, as seen in Pharaoh giving the land of Goshen to the |
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(Genesis) 62 - the Grandeur of God's Glory by S. Lewis Johnson | The sermon transcript discusses the character of Jacob and his blessing of Pharaoh before leaving his presence. It then transitions to discussing Joseph and his economic policies a |
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Joseph Reminds Me of Jesus-07 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of honoring God in all aspects of life. He uses the example of Joseph from the Bible, who went through many trials but was ult |
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The God of Jacob by Robert Constable | In this sermon, the speaker recounts the story of Jacob from the Bible. Jacob had worked for seven years to marry Rachel, but on the wedding day, he discovered that he had been dec |
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Jacob Before Pharaoh by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith focuses on the actions of Jacob as he is brought before Pharaoh. Joseph brings his father Jacob to Pharaoh, and Jacob blesses Pharaoh. Pastor Chu |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Genesis 47
In Genesis 47, we see the providence of God in the life of Joseph and his family. Despite the famine, Joseph is able to provide for his family and settle them in the land of Rameses. The chapter highlights the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even in difficult circumstances. As Matthew Henry notes, 'the Lord's people are never in darkness, for He is their light; and even in the darkest night, His presence is their consolation.' We can learn from Joseph's example to trust in God's provision and care, even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult. By putting our trust in Him, we can experience peace and confidence, knowing that He is working all things together for our good. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
God's Providence
Throughout Genesis 47, we see God's providence and care for His people, even in the midst of trial and hardship. Joseph's story demonstrates how God works all things together for good, even when circumstances seem bleak.
Joseph's Character
Joseph's character is on display in Genesis 47, as he provides for his family and helps them settle in the land. His actions demonstrate his trust in God and his commitment to caring for those in need.
The Importance of Family
Genesis 47 highlights the importance of family and the need to care for one another, especially in times of trial. Joseph's actions demonstrate the value of putting others before oneself and trusting in God's provision.