EXPLORE IT - Genesis 42:29-43:15

Scripture tells us that “there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9) and our passage this week (Genesis 42:29-43:15) illustrates this principle well.  We’ve all sugarcoated the stories we have shared from time to time.  We try to soften the blow of bad news.  We try to lessen the intensity of a situation in order not to cause someone unwarranted stress.  As Joseph’s brothers arrive home, the tale they tell their father Jacob is not quite an accurate account of events.

As they share their experiences, the brothers change their wording order slightly to make a better impression on Jacob.  When speaking to Joseph, the brothers said they were, “the sons of one man” and when speaking to Jacob they are, “the sons of the same father.”  The comments about Joseph and Benjamin are reversed.  When addressing Joseph, they say, “The youngest is now with our father, and the other one is gone.”  When relaying their story of Jacob, they say, “the one is gone, and the youngest is now with our father.” 

In order to make the situation seem less critical, the brothers omit their three day stint in jail.  They also alter Joseph’s “let one of your brothers be detained in your place of custody” to “leave one of your brothers here with me” as if Simeon were a guest instead of being held in jail.  The brothers also leave out the “your words shall be verified, and you will not die” and just intimate their brother will be returned to them upon their return to Egypt with Benjamin.

Even though the brothers attempt to soften their story, they are still not allowed to return right away to Egypt with Benjamin.  Jacob is still afraid what might befall Benjamin if he leaves.  Eventually, the food runs out again and he has no option but to let the ten remaining brothers journey once more to Egypt. 

Join us next Sunday as the adventure continues!

Blessings,
Pastor Amy