"Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits. We can say that a vicious animal has devoured him. Then we shall see what becomes of his dreams!" “Come now, let us kill himThis phrase reflects the deep-seated jealousy and animosity Joseph's brothers harbored against him. Joseph was favored by their father, Jacob, which fueled their resentment. This act of plotting murder highlights the severity of their hatred. In biblical context, this mirrors the story of Cain and Abel, where jealousy led to fratricide. It also foreshadows the rejection and eventual crucifixion of Jesus Christ, who was also despised by those He came to save. Mat 21:38-39 But when the tenants saw the son, they said to one another,… and throw him into one of the pits. The "pits" refer to cisterns or dry wells common in the region, used to collect rainwater. These pits were often deep and difficult to escape from, making them suitable for imprisoning someone. This act of casting Joseph into a pit symbolizes the depths of betrayal and abandonment. It prefigures Christ's descent into the grave and His subsequent resurrection, as Joseph's eventual rise to power in Egypt mirrors Christ's victory over death. Jer 38:6 So they took Jeremiah and dropped him into the cistern… We can say that a vicious animal has devoured him. This deception planned by Joseph's brothers is significant in its attempt to cover up their sin. The use of a "vicious animal" as an excuse is ironic, as it reflects their own beastly behavior. This lie parallels the deceit of Satan, the "father of lies," and the false accusations brought against Jesus. It also underscores the theme of sin leading to further sin, as the brothers' initial jealousy spirals into a web of deceit. Gen 44:28 When one of them was gone, I said: “Surely he has been”… Then we shall see what becomes of his dreams!” Joseph's dreams, which foretold his rise to prominence and his brothers bowing to him, were a source of their envy. This statement is filled with sarcasm and disbelief, as the brothers sought to thwart God's revealed plan. However, their actions inadvertently set the stage for the fulfillment of those dreams. This reflects the biblical principle that God's purposes prevail despite human opposition, as seen in Romans 8:28. Joseph's story is a type of Christ, who was also rejected and yet fulfilled God's redemptive plan through His suffering and exaltation. Gen 42:6 Now Joseph was the ruler of the land; … Persons / Places / Events 1. JosephThe favored son of Jacob, known for his dreams which foretold his future rise to prominence. His brothers' jealousy leads them to plot against him. 2. Joseph's Brothers The sons of Jacob, who are envious of Joseph's favored status and his dreams, which suggest he will rule over them. 3. The Pit A cistern or dry well where Joseph's brothers plan to throw him, symbolizing betrayal and abandonment. 4. Dothan The location where Joseph's brothers conspire against him, highlighting a place of treachery. 5. Dreams Joseph's dreams are central to the account, representing God's revelation and future plans for Joseph. Teaching Points Jealousy and Its ConsequencesThe account of Joseph's brothers teaches us about the destructive power of jealousy and how it can lead to sinful actions. Believers are called to guard their hearts against envy and to seek contentment in God's provision. God's Sovereignty in Adversity Despite the evil intentions of Joseph's brothers, God's plan prevails. This reminds us that God can use even the most difficult circumstances for His purposes and our good. The Power of Forgiveness Joseph's eventual forgiveness of his brothers is a powerful example of grace and reconciliation. Christians are encouraged to forgive others as God has forgiven them. The Role of Dreams and Visions Joseph's dreams were a form of divine revelation. While not all dreams are from God, believers should be open to how God might communicate His will through various means. Trusting God's Timing Joseph's journey from the pit to the palace was marked by patience and trust in God's timing. We are reminded to wait on the Lord and trust His perfect timing in our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the jealousy of Joseph's brothers compare to instances of jealousy in your own life, and how can you address it biblically?2. In what ways can you see God's sovereignty at work in your current circumstances, even if they seem challenging? 3. Reflect on a time when you had to forgive someone who wronged you. How does Joseph's account inspire you to offer forgiveness? 4. How can you discern whether a dream or vision is from God, and what steps should you take to seek His guidance? 5. What are some practical ways you can cultivate patience and trust in God's timing, especially when facing uncertainty? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 50:20This verse reflects Joseph's understanding of God's sovereignty, where he acknowledges that what his brothers intended for harm, God intended for good. Matthew 27:18 The jealousy of Joseph's brothers parallels the envy of the religious leaders towards Jesus, leading to His crucifixion. Acts 7:9 Stephen's speech references Joseph's betrayal by his brothers, illustrating God's providence and faithfulness.
People Bilhah, Ishmaelites, Jacob, Joseph, Medanites, Midianites, Pharaoh, Potiphar, Reuben, ZilpahPlaces Canaan, Chezib, Dothan, Egypt, Gilead, Shechem, Valley of HebronTopics Animal, Beast, Becomes, Body, Cast, Cisterns, Death, Devoured, Dreams, Evil, Ferocious, Holes, Kill, Let's, Pit, Pits, Slay, Throw, We'll, WildDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 37:1-35 5047 opportunities, in life 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 37:20 NIVGenesis 37:20 NLT Genesis 37:20 ESV Genesis 37:20 NASB Genesis 37:20 KJV Genesis 37:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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