Israel said to him, "Are not your brothers pasturing the flocks at Shechem? Get ready; I am sending you to them." "I am ready," Joseph replied. Israel said to him,This phrase refers to Jacob, who was renamed Israel after wrestling with God (Genesis 32:28). As the patriarch of the family, Israel's words carry authority and significance. His relationship with Joseph is particularly close, as Joseph is the son of his beloved wife Rachel. This sets the stage for the unfolding events, highlighting the familial dynamics and favoritism that contribute to the brothers' jealousy. 1Sa 17:17-18 One day Jesse said to his son David, “Take this… “Are not your brothers pasturing the flocks at Shechem? Shechem is a significant location in biblical history. It is where God first promised the land to Abraham (Genesis 12:6-7) and where Jacob's sons previously avenged their sister Dinah (Genesis 34). The mention of Shechem may evoke memories of past violence and tension, foreshadowing the conflict that will arise. The brothers' presence there suggests they are engaged in their pastoral duties, a common occupation in ancient Near Eastern culture. 1Sa 17:15 David went back and forth from Saul to tend his sheep… Get ready; I am sending you to them.” Israel's directive to Joseph indicates trust and responsibility, as he is tasked with checking on his brothers' welfare. This journey will set in motion a series of events leading to Joseph's eventual rise in Egypt. The act of sending Joseph can be seen as a type of Christ, who was sent by the Father to His brethren, ultimately leading to salvation through suffering. Exo 3:10 Therefore, go! I am sending you to Pharaoh… “I am ready,” Joseph replied. Joseph's response demonstrates obedience and willingness, traits that are consistently seen throughout his life. His readiness to serve his father mirrors the obedience of Christ to the will of the Father. This phrase also highlights Joseph's innocence and naivety, as he is unaware of the danger that awaits him. His willingness to go foreshadows his future role as a leader and savior for his family during the famine. Isa 6:8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying… Persons / Places / Events 1. Israel (Jacob)The patriarch of the family, also known as Jacob, who is the father of Joseph and his brothers. He plays a significant role in the unfolding of God's covenant promises. 2. Joseph The favored son of Jacob, known for his dreams and future leadership in Egypt. His journey begins with obedience to his father’s request. 3. Joseph's Brothers They are tending the flocks at Shechem. Their relationship with Joseph is strained due to jealousy and resentment. 4. Shechem A significant location in biblical history, previously associated with both Abraham and Jacob. It is a place of past family events and covenants. 5. The Flocks Represent the family's wealth and livelihood, which the brothers are responsible for managing. Teaching Points Obedience to AuthorityJoseph's immediate response, "I am ready," exemplifies a heart of obedience and readiness to serve, which is a model for believers in responding to God's call and authority figures in our lives. Family Dynamics and God's Sovereignty Despite the dysfunction and jealousy within Jacob's family, God's sovereign plan is at work. This encourages believers to trust in God's overarching plan even amidst family challenges. Significance of Place in God's Plan Shechem is a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of places in biblical history. Believers can reflect on how God uses specific locations in their own lives for His purposes. Faithfulness in Small Tasks Joseph's willingness to undertake a seemingly mundane task of checking on his brothers is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness in small things, which God often uses to prepare us for greater responsibilities. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Joseph's response to his father's request demonstrate his character, and what can we learn from it about obedience?2. In what ways does the location of Shechem play a role in the broader account of Genesis, and how does this inform our understanding of God's promises? 3. How can the account of Joseph and his brothers help us navigate complex family relationships while trusting in God's sovereignty? 4. What are some "small tasks" in your life that God might be using to prepare you for future responsibilities, and how can you approach them with faithfulness? 5. How does the theme of obedience in Genesis 37:13 connect with other biblical examples of obedience, such as David or Abraham, and what lessons can we draw for our own lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 37:4-11Provides context for the brothers' jealousy and animosity towards Joseph, setting the stage for the events that follow. Genesis 12:6-7 Shechem is first mentioned as a place where God appeared to Abraham, establishing its importance in the account of God's promises. 1 Samuel 17:17-18 Similar to Joseph, David is sent by his father to check on his brothers, highlighting themes of obedience and family duty. Hebrews 11:8 Reflects on the faith and obedience of the patriarchs, which can be seen in Joseph's willingness to go to Shechem.
People Bilhah, Ishmaelites, Jacob, Joseph, Medanites, Midianites, Pharaoh, Potiphar, Reuben, ZilpahPlaces Canaan, Chezib, Dothan, Egypt, Gilead, Shechem, Valley of HebronTopics Aren't, Brethren, Brothers, Feed, Feeding, Flock, Flocks, Grazing, Joseph, Pasturing, Replied, ShechemDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 37:13Library Joseph, the Prime Minister'And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is? And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Trials and visions of Devout Youth Man's Passions and God's Purpose Talmage -- a Bloody Monster The Crucifixion. The Sixth Commandment Appendix 2 Extracts from the Babylon Talmud Genesis Links Genesis 37:13 NIVGenesis 37:13 NLT Genesis 37:13 ESV Genesis 37:13 NASB Genesis 37:13 KJV Genesis 37:13 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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