As we read Genesis chapter 45 we find one of the most emotional, powerful scenes in all of ancient literature, but more importantly, we are seeing the providence of God on full display.
The Revelation of the Brother
In Genesis chapter 45, verses 1 through 2, we see Joseph reaching a breaking point. He can no longer maintain the “Egyptian lord” persona. He commands every Egyptian servant to leave the room. He wants this moment to be intimate. He breaks down in such loud weeping that the people outside the doors hear him. Imagine the shock of the brothers! This powerful ruler, who has been testing them, suddenly breaks into tears and cries out in their own language: “I am Joseph; does my father still live?”
In verse 3, we see the brothers are absolutely speechless. They aren’t cheering yet; they are terrified. The last time they saw Joseph, they were throwing him into a pit and selling him into slavery. They are “troubled at his presence,” likely expecting a death sentence.
But look at the heart of Joseph in verses 4 through 5. He says, “Come near to me.” He doesn’t pull away in bitterness; he draws them in. He tells them, “Do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life.”
Seeing Beyond Secondary Causes
This is a massive spiritual lesson for us. Joseph had every “right” in the flesh to be vindictive. But he had a spiritual perspective. He understood that while his brothers’ actions were evil, God’s purpose was supreme.
In Genesis chapter 45, verses 7 and 8, he repeats it: “God sent me before you… So now it was not you who sent me here, but God.”
Often in our lives, we get so caught up in “secondary causes”—the person who cut us off, the boss who treated us unfairly, the friend who betrayed us. We focus on the person and let bitterness take root. But Joseph saw the primary cause: The hand of God. He realized that God used the rebellion of man to position Joseph to save the world from famine.
Practical Application: Are you struggling with a “secondary cause” today? Maybe someone did you wrong. Can you trust that God is big enough to take even the “pits” of your life and use them to position you for His “palace” purposes? Stop looking at the brothers and start looking at God the Father.
A Type of Christ
As we study the Old Testament, we remember that Jesus told the disciples on the road to Emmaus that all the Scriptures testify of Him. Joseph is a beautiful “type” or picture of Jesus Christ.
- Joseph was rejected by his own brothers; Jesus came unto His own, and His own received Him not.
- Joseph was sold for silver; Jesus was betrayed for thirty pieces of silver.
- Joseph was “dead” to his father but was actually alive, ruling at the right hand of the throne.
Just as Joseph revealed himself to his brothers at their second meeting, the Bible tells us that when Jesus returns, those who rejected Him will look upon Him whom they have pierced and recognize Him. And just like Joseph, Jesus doesn’t meet His repentant people with a sword of judgment, but with the open arms of grace.
The Invitation to the Father
In Genesis chapter 45, verses 9 through 28, Joseph sends his brothers back with a message for Jacob: “Come down to me, do not tarry!” He sends wagons, riches, and provisions. When Jacob finally sees the wagons, his spirit revives. He realizes his son is alive.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is our “wagon” from heaven. It is the proof that Jesus is not just a teacher or a martyr, but He is God, Savior, and Lord. When He shed His blood on the cross, He paid the debt for every “brother” who ever betrayed Him—and that includes you and me.
A Challenge for the Believer
Are you walking in the “fat of the land” spiritually, or are you still living in the famine of bitterness? I challenge you this week to release the “secondary causes.” Stop blaming people and start trusting God’s sovereignty. Live like a child of the King who has been given the best of Egypt.
An Invitation to the Unbeliever
Perhaps you feel like those brothers—troubled at the presence of God because you know you’ve rebelled. The Great Joseph, Jesus Christ, is saying to you today, “Come near to me.” He isn’t looking to condemn you; He died to preserve your life. He shed His blood so your sins could be washed away, and He rose again to give you a seat at His table. Will you stop running? Give your life to Him today.