1 Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him. He cried, “Make everyone go out from me.” So no one stayed with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers.
2 And he wept aloud, so that the Egyptians heard it, and the household of Pharaoh heard it.
3 And Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence.
4 So Joseph said to his brothers, “Come near to me, please.” And they came near. And he said, “I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt.
5 And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.
6 For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest.
7 And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors.
8 So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
9 Hurry and go up to my father and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph, God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; do not tarry.
10 You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near me, you and your children and your children’s children, and your flocks, your herds, and all that you have.
11 There I will provide for you, for there are yet five years of famine to come, so that you and your household, and all that you have, do not come to poverty.’”
12 And now your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin see, that it is my mouth that speaks to you.
13 You shall tell my father of all my honor in Egypt, and of all that you have seen. And you shall hurry and bring my father down here.”
14 Then he fell upon his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept upon his neck.
15 And he kissed all his brothers and wept upon them. After that his brothers talked with him.
16 When the report was heard in Pharaoh’s house, “Joseph’s brothers have come,” it pleased Pharaoh and his servants.
17 And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Say to your brothers, ‘Do this: load your beasts and go back to the land of Canaan,
18 and take your father and your households, and come to me, and I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you shall eat the fat of the land.’
19 You are also commanded to say, ‘Do this: take wagons from the land of Egypt for your little ones and for your wives, and bring your father, and come.
20 Also do not concern yourselves with your goods, for the best of all the land of Egypt is yours.’”
21 The sons of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the command of Pharaoh, and gave them provisions for the journey.
22 To each and all of them he gave a change of clothes, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silver and five changes of clothes.
23 To his father he sent as follows: ten donkeys loaded with the good things of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain, bread, and provision for his father on the journey.
24 So he sent his brothers away, and as they departed, he said to them, “Do not quarrel on the way.”
25 So they went up out of Egypt and came to the land of Canaan to their father Jacob.
26 And they told him, “Joseph is still alive, and he is ruler over all the land of Egypt.” And his heart became numb, for he did not believe them.
27 But when they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had said to them, and when he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of their father Jacob revived.
28 And Israel said, “It is enough; Joseph my son is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”
The True Meaning of Genesis 45
This chapter of Genesis is written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. He recounts the remarkable events that took place when Joseph, the son of Jacob, revealed his true identity to his brothers, who had sold him into slavery years earlier.
The chapter opens with Joseph finally disclosing his identity to his brothers, who had come to Egypt seeking food during a time of famine. This dramatic moment sets the stage for the reconciliation between Joseph and his family, as well as the unfolding of God’s greater plan for the Israelites. We will see how Joseph’s trials and tribulations ultimately led to the preservation of his family and the fulfillment of the divine promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Throughout this passage, we are reminded of the sovereignty of God and His ability to work all things together for the good of those who love Him, as mentioned in Romans 8:28. The events in Genesis 45 also foreshadow the coming of the Messiah, who would one day reconcile all of humanity to God the Father.
Genesis 45:1-5
We witness a profound and moving moment in the story of Joseph and his brothers in Genesis 45:1-5. The section begins with Joseph revealing his true identity to his brothers by declaring, “I am Joseph!” This declaration is significant not only because it marks the moment of Joseph finally revealing himself to his brothers after years of separation and deception but also because it symbolizes a powerful moment of reconciliation and restoration in their relationship.
Joseph’s revelation of his identity as their long-lost brother is a moment filled with deep emotion and significance. His brothers, who had betrayed him by selling him into slavery out of jealousy, are rightfully shocked and fearful when they realize who he is. Joseph’s brothers were no doubt filled with guilt and regret for their past actions, and Joseph himself likely experienced a mixture of emotions at the sight of his brothers, including forgiveness and compassion.
This moment in Genesis 45 demonstrates the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. Despite the betrayal and suffering Joseph endured at the hands of his brothers, he chooses to extend grace and mercy to them. Instead of seeking vengeance or holding onto bitterness, Joseph chooses to offer forgiveness and understanding. This act of forgiveness not only brings healing to Joseph and his brothers but also serves as a powerful example of the importance of reconciliation in relationships.
Throughout the Bible, the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation is central to many stories. For instance, in the New Testament, Jesus teaches the importance of forgiveness in the Lord’s Prayer, emphasizing the need to forgive others in order to receive forgiveness ourselves (Matthew 6:14-15). Joseph’s act of forgiveness towards his brothers serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the ultimate forgiveness and reconciliation that Christ offers to all who believe in Him.
Furthermore, this moment in Genesis 45 also highlights the sovereignty of God and His ability to work all things together for good. Despite the trials and hardships that Joseph faced, God used those experiences to bring about a greater purpose and to ultimately save his family from famine. Joseph himself recognizes this divine intervention when he declares to his brothers, “Do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. Genesis 45:1-5 is a powerful reminder of the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and trusting in God’s sovereignty. Through Joseph’s act of forgiveness towards his brothers and his recognition of God’s hand in his life, we are reminded of the transformative power of grace and the ultimate redemption that comes from placing our trust in the Lord.
Genesis 45:6-8
Joseph reveals his true identity to his brothers who had sold him into slavery many years before in Genesis 45:6-8. This moment is crucial in the story of Joseph as it showcases forgiveness, reconciliation, and the working of God’s plan even through difficult circumstances.
Joseph’s declaration, “I am Joseph,” is a powerful revelation that must have struck his brothers to the core. After years of separation and deceit, Joseph finally unveils himself to his siblings. This moment not only signifies a physical reunion but also a spiritual and emotional one. Joseph’s past suffering and his rise to power in Egypt all come together in this scene to demonstrate God’s hand in orchestrating events for the good of those who trust in Him. It portrays the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation, echoing the importance of letting go of past grievances and embracing grace as exemplified by Joseph towards his brothers.
Furthermore, Joseph’s message to his brothers to not be distressed or angry with themselves for selling him into slavery is a reflection of his profound understanding of God’s providence. He acknowledges that it was not his brothers who sent him to Egypt but God, who had a greater plan in store for him. This mindset of Joseph echoes the biblical principle found in Romans 8:28, where it says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Joseph’s ability to see beyond the betrayals and hardships he endured exemplifies a deep faith in God’s sovereignty.
Lastly, Joseph instructs his brothers to bring their father, Jacob, and their entire household to Egypt, where he promises to provide for them during the remaining years of the famine. This act of Joseph not only displays his filial piety and care for his family but also foreshadows the future exodus of the Israelites into Egypt. This event sets the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding his descendants being sojourners in a foreign land (Genesis 15:13). It is a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Israelites’ history, setting in motion their journey towards becoming a great nation. Genesis 45:6-8 encapsulates themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, providence, and divine sovereignty. Through Joseph’s actions and words, we see the power of forgiveness in healing broken relationships, the importance of trusting in God’s plan even in times of adversity, and the fulfillment of God’s promises through the unfolding of history. It serves as a reminder for us today to trust in God’s sovereignty, practice forgiveness, and seek reconciliation in our relationships, knowing that His plans are always for our good and His glory.
Genesis 45:9-15
Joseph reveals himself to his brothers, who had come to Egypt seeking food during the famine, in Genesis 45:9-15. This passage is a pivotal moment in the story of Joseph and his brothers, showcasing themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and God’s divine plan. Joseph reassures his brothers not to be distressed or angry with themselves for selling him into slavery in the first part of this passage, as he recognizes that it was ultimately God who sent him to Egypt to preserve life. This statement demonstrates Joseph’s deep faith in God’s sovereignty and his ability to see past the betrayal and suffering he endured at the hands of his own family. It also shows Joseph’s forgiveness towards his brothers, as he does not hold their past actions against them.
The mention of the ‘two years of famine’ in verse 11 is significant as it reflects the fulfillment of the dreams Joseph had interpreted earlier in Genesis 41, where he predicted a seven-year period of abundance followed by seven years of famine. This reference not only highlights Joseph’s wisdom and ability to interpret dreams but also serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.
Joseph’s instructions to his brothers to go back to Canaan and bring their father, Jacob, and their families to Egypt is a powerful scene of reconciliation and restoration within the family. After years of separation and deceit, Joseph is now extending grace and generosity towards his brothers, inviting them to share in the blessings of Egypt and be reunited with their father. This act of kindness and reconciliation reflects the biblical theme of reconciliation and the importance of forgiveness in repairing broken relationships. Joseph symbolizes his desire to care for and provide for his family as he sends his brothers off with gifts and provisions for the journey, despite the years of hardship they had faced. This act of generosity and compassion is a reflection of God’s character, the ultimate provider and sustainer of His people. This passage in Genesis 45:9-15 encapsulates the themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, redemption, and God’s sovereign plan at work. It serves as a reminder that no matter the challenges we face or the betrayals we experience, God can use all things for His glory and to bring about His purposes. Joseph’s story is a powerful example of how forgiveness and reconciliation can lead to healing and restoration within families and communities, pointing towards the ultimate reconciliation we have through Christ.
Genesis 45:16-20
Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers in an emotionally charged and poignant moment in Genesis 45:16-20, bringing them before Pharaoh. This passage is a culmination of the narrative of Joseph and his brothers which began with jealousy, betrayal, and ultimately forgiveness and reconciliation. Joseph discloses his true identity, filling his brothers with shock and fear, but he reassures them with comforting words, urging them not to be distressed or angry with themselves for selling him into slavery, as it was part of God’s plan to preserve life during the famine that had befallen the land.
This moment highlights the theme of forgiveness and God’s overarching sovereignty in the lives of His people. Despite the brothers’ past transgressions against Joseph, he chooses to forgive them and even provides for them during the famine, illustrating the power of redemption and reconciliation. Joseph’s forgiveness echoes the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, where He instructs His followers to forgive others as they have been forgiven by God (Matthew 6:14-15).
Furthermore, this passage underscores the importance of trust in God’s providence and timing. Joseph acknowledges that it was not his brothers who sent him to Egypt, but God, in order to fulfill His divine purpose. This echoes the sentiment expressed in Romans 8:28, where it is stated that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Joseph’s journey from being a betrayed brother to a powerful ruler in Egypt exemplifies how God can turn even the most dire circumstances into opportunities for His glory and the well-being of His people. Joseph presents his brothers before Pharaoh and ensures that they receive favorable treatment by instructing them to relay the message of his identity as their brother when speaking to Pharaoh. This act of solidarity and protection towards his family reveals Joseph’s deep sense of loyalty and compassion, characteristics that are valued and exemplified throughout the Bible. Proverbs 17:17 states that a friend loves at all times and a brother is born for a time of adversity, emphasizing the importance of familial bonds and support during trials and tribulations. The narrative in Genesis 45:16-20 reinforces the timeless themes of forgiveness, redemption, trust in God’s plan, and the importance of familial relationships. Through Joseph’s actions and interactions with his brothers, we are reminded of the transformative power of forgiveness and reconciliation, as well as the profound impact of trusting in God’s sovereignty and providence. This passage serves as a powerful example of God’s faithfulness and the potential for restoration and healing even in the midst of brokenness and betrayal.
Genesis 45:21-24
Joseph generously provided his brothers with wagons to transport their families and belongings from the land of Canaan to Egypt at the command of Pharaoh in Genesis 45:21-24. This act of kindness marked a turning point in the story of Joseph and his brothers, symbolizing not only Joseph’s forgiveness but also the reconciliation of the family that had been torn apart by jealousy and betrayal.
Joseph’s gift of wagons to his brothers was not just a practical gesture to help them with their journey; it was a symbolic act of restoration and care. The provision of wagons signifies Joseph’s desire to ensure his brothers’ welfare and ease their burdens during their relocation to Egypt. This reflects the theme of compassion and forgiveness, as Joseph goes above and beyond to alleviate any hardship his brothers may face.
The choice of wagons as a mode of transportation is significant as it showcases the abundance and wealth Joseph had acquired in Egypt. Joseph facilitated the logistics of the journey and demonstrated the prosperity and success he had achieved after years of struggle and adversity by providing wagons. This highlights the theme of God’s faithfulness and provision, as Joseph had risen from being a slave and prisoner to becoming a powerful ruler in Egypt, all according to God’s plan.
Furthermore, the mention of Jacob’s reaction to the news of Joseph being alive and ruling in Egypt adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative. Jacob, who had mourned the loss of his beloved son for years, was initially stunned by the news but ultimately rejoiced at the prospect of seeing Joseph again before his death. This reunion between Joseph and his father Jacob is a poignant moment that showcases the overarching theme of restoration and redemption in the face of past pain and suffering.
The act of Joseph sending his brothers back to Canaan with supplies and provisions can be seen as a reflection of Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament regarding forgiveness and reconciliation. Just as Joseph forgave his brothers and sought to reconcile with them, Jesus calls on his followers to forgive others and seek unity and peace. This episode in Genesis serves as a powerful example of the transformative power of forgiveness and the restoration of broken relationships through grace and mercy, echoing timeless messages that resonate throughout the Bible.
Genesis 45:25-28
Joseph’s brothers returned to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan after their dramatic reunion with Joseph in Egypt, as we read in Genesis 45:25-28. The verse says, “So they went up out of Egypt and came to the land of Canaan to their father Jacob. And they told him, ‘Joseph is still alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt.’ And Jacob’s heart stood still because he did not believe them. But when they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had said to them, and when he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of their father Jacob revived.”
This section of the verse showcases the overwhelming mix of emotions experienced by Jacob upon hearing that his beloved son Joseph is indeed alive. Initially, Jacob is in disbelief when his sons inform him about Joseph, as he had long believed his son to be dead after the brothers deceived him by presenting Joseph’s bloodied coat as evidence of his demise. The news that Joseph is not only alive but also holds a prominent position in Egypt as the governor fills Jacob with a range of emotions.
The mention of the wagons that Joseph had sent for Jacob is significant. Wagons were a symbol of wealth and provision in those times. Joseph is not only demonstrating his filial love but also providing tangible proof of his new position and ability to care for his family by sending wagons to carry his father and family to Egypt. This act of sending wagons was Joseph’s way of showing his father that he was serious about reuniting the family and ensuring their well-being in Egypt.
Jacob’s spirit being revived upon hearing all this news highlights the power of hope, faith, and reconciliation within families. Despite the years of separation, deception, and pain that the family had endured, the prospect of being reunited with Joseph brings a renewed sense of life and purpose to Jacob. This event symbolizes the restoration of the broken relationship between Joseph and his brothers, as well as the healing of the family as a whole. The story of Joseph and his brothers in the broader context of the Bible serves as a powerful example of forgiveness, redemption, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plans. Joseph’s journey from being sold into slavery by his brothers to becoming a ruler in Egypt illustrates how God can turn adversity into triumph. The reconciliation between Joseph and his family members demonstrates the importance of forgiveness and the transformative power of God’s grace.
This verse also foreshadows the future events that will lead to the Israelites settling in Egypt and eventually becoming enslaved. It sets the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding his descendants being strangers in a land not their own but ultimately being delivered and led to the Promised Land. Genesis 45:25-28 portrays a poignant moment of reunion, forgiveness, and restoration within the family of Jacob. It underscores the themes of God’s sovereignty, forgiveness, and the importance of family bonds in the overall narrative of the Bible. Believers can draw lessons from this passage about the power of reconciliation, the necessity of forgiveness, and the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises.
After Genesis 45
The brothers were stunned by Joseph’s revelation. They had not expected their long-lost brother to be the second-in-command of Egypt. Joseph forgave them and reassured them, saying that God had sent him ahead to preserve their family. He urged them to return home and bring their father Jacob to Egypt, where they would be provided for during the famine. Joseph gave the brothers final instructions as they prepared to depart. He knew their journey home would be filled with a mix of emotions – joy at being reunited, but also lingering guilt and uncertainty. Yet, he also recognized this was a pivotal moment, not just for his family, but for the unfolding of God’s greater plan. For as the brothers made their way back, they carried with them a message that would change the course of history forever.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.