Now Joseph's brothers saw him in the distance, and before he arrived, they plotted to kill him. Now Joseph’s brothers saw him in the distance,Joseph's brothers were tending their father's flocks in Dothan, a location approximately 13 miles north of Shechem. This area was known for its pastures and trade routes. The brothers' ability to see Joseph from afar suggests the open landscape typical of the region. Joseph's distinctive coat, a symbol of his father's favoritism, likely made him recognizable from a distance. This moment foreshadows the unfolding of God's providential plan, as Joseph's journey to his brothers sets in motion events that will lead to the fulfillment of his earlier dreams (Genesis 37:5-11). Luk 15:20 So he got up and went to his father… and before he arrived, The anticipation of Joseph's arrival indicates the brothers' premeditated thoughts and emotions. Their actions were not impulsive but rather a culmination of deep-seated jealousy and resentment. This moment highlights the human tendency to harbor grudges and the destructive power of envy, which is warned against in scriptures such as James 3:16. Pro 1:11 If they say, “Come along, let us lie in wait for blood…”… they plotted to kill him. The brothers' conspiracy to kill Joseph reflects the severity of their animosity. This act of plotting is reminiscent of Cain's murder of Abel (Genesis 4:8), showcasing the recurring theme of sibling rivalry and violence in Genesis. The brothers' plan also serves as a type of Christ, as Joseph, the beloved son, is rejected and betrayed by his own, paralleling Jesus' rejection by His people (John 1:11). This plot, however, is ultimately thwarted by God's sovereign plan, which uses human evil to bring about His purposes, as seen in Joseph's eventual rise to power in Egypt and the preservation of his family during famine (Genesis 50:20). Mat 21:38 But when the tenants saw the son, they said to one another,… Persons / Places / Events 1. JosephThe favored son of Jacob, known for his dreams that foretold his future rise to power. His brothers' jealousy towards him is a central theme in this account. 2. Joseph's Brothers The sons of Jacob, who are envious of Joseph's favored status and his dreams. Their jealousy leads them to plot against him. 3. Dothan The place where Joseph's brothers were pasturing their father's flocks and where they plotted against Joseph. It is significant as the location of the brothers' betrayal. 4. Plot to Kill The brothers' conspiracy to murder Joseph, which marks a pivotal moment of betrayal and sets the stage for Joseph's eventual journey to Egypt. Teaching Points The Destructive Power of JealousyJealousy can lead to devastating actions, as seen in the brothers' plot against Joseph. Believers are called to guard their hearts against envy and seek contentment in God's provision. God's Sovereignty in Adversity Despite the brothers' evil intentions, God's plan for Joseph's life was not thwarted. This teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when faced with betrayal or hardship. The Importance of Forgiveness Joseph's account ultimately leads to reconciliation and forgiveness. Christians are encouraged to forgive those who wrong them, following Joseph's example and Christ's teaching. Family Dynamics and Favoritism Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph contributed to the brothers' jealousy. This serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of favoritism within families and the importance of treating all family members with love and fairness. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the jealousy of Joseph's brothers compare to other biblical examples of envy, and what can we learn from these accounts about handling jealousy in our own lives?2. In what ways does the account of Joseph foreshadow the life and mission of Jesus Christ, particularly in terms of betrayal and redemption? 3. How can we apply the lessons of God's sovereignty in Joseph's life to our own situations of adversity or betrayal? 4. What steps can we take to prevent favoritism in our families or communities, and how can we promote unity and love instead? 5. Reflect on a time when you experienced betrayal or hurt. How can Joseph's response to his brothers inspire you to pursue forgiveness and reconciliation? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 4:8The account of Cain and Abel, where jealousy leads to murder, parallels the brothers' plot against Joseph. Matthew 27:18 Pilate recognizes that Jesus was handed over out of envy, similar to Joseph's situation, highlighting the destructive power of jealousy. Acts 7:9 Stephen recounts how the patriarchs, moved by envy, sold Joseph into Egypt, drawing a direct line from the Old Testament account to the New Testament understanding of God's providence.
People Bilhah, Ishmaelites, Jacob, Joseph, Medanites, Midianites, Pharaoh, Potiphar, Reuben, ZilpahPlaces Canaan, Chezib, Dothan, Egypt, Gilead, Shechem, Valley of HebronTopics Afar, Close, Conspire, Conspired, Death, Design, Distance, Draweth, Kill, Plotted, Reached, Secret, SlayDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 37:1-35 5047 opportunities, in life 5828 danger Library 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 37:18 NIVGenesis 37:18 NLT Genesis 37:18 ESV Genesis 37:18 NASB Genesis 37:18 KJV Genesis 37:18 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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