Genesis 45
BSB1 Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, “Send everyone away from me!” So none of them were with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers. 2 But he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh’s household soon heard of it. 3 Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But they were unable to answer him, because they were terrified in his presence. 4 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near me.” And they did so. “I am Joseph, your brother,” he said, “the one you sold into Egypt! 5 And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you. 6 For the famine has covered the land these two years, and there will be five more years without plowing or harvesting. 7 God sent me before you to preserve you as a remnant on the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. 8 Therefore it was not you who sent me here, but God, who has made me a father to Pharaoh—lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt. 9 Now return quickly to my father and tell him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me without delay. 10 You shall settle in the land of Goshen and be near me—you and your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds, and everything you own. 11 And there I will provide for you, because there will be five more years of famine. Otherwise, you and your household and everything you own will come to destitution.’ 12 Behold! You and my brother Benjamin can see that I, Joseph, am the one speaking with you. 13 Tell my father about all my splendor in Egypt and everything you have seen. And bring my father down here quickly." 14 Then Joseph threw his arms around his brother Benjamin and wept, and Benjamin wept as they embraced. 15 Joseph kissed each of his brothers as he wept over them. And afterward his brothers talked with him. 16 When the news reached Pharaoh’s house that Joseph’s brothers had come, Pharaoh and his servants were pleased. 17 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do as follows: Load your animals and return to the land of Canaan. 18 Then bring your father and your families and return to me. I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you shall eat from the fat of the land.’ 19 You are also directed to tell them: ‘Take wagons from the land of Egypt for your young children and your wives, and bring your father and come back. 20 But pay no regard to your belongings, for the best of all the land of Egypt is yours.’" 21 So the sons of Israel did as they were told. Joseph gave them wagons as Pharaoh had instructed, and he also gave them provisions for their journey. 22 He gave new garments to each of them, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silver and five sets of clothes. 23 And he sent to his father the following: ten donkeys loaded with the best of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain and bread and provisions for his father’s journey. 24 Then Joseph sent his brothers on their way, and as they were leaving, he said to them, “Do not quarrel on the way!" 25 So the brothers went up out of Egypt and came to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan. 26 “Joseph is still alive,” they said, “and he is ruler over all the land of Egypt!” But Jacob was stunned, for he did not believe them. 27 However, when they relayed all that Joseph had told them, and when he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him back, the spirit of their father Jacob was revived. 28 “Enough!” declared Israel. “My son Joseph is still alive! I will go to see him before I die."
Study Notes — Genesis 45
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Genesis 45
- Themes from Genesis 45
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Genesis 45
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Genesis 45 begins with Joseph revealing his identity to his brothers, who are shocked and afraid. However, Joseph reassures them that he has forgiven them and invites them to bring their father, Jacob, to Egypt. Joseph provides for his brothers and their families, giving them the best land in Egypt. The chapter also highlights Joseph's emotional reunion with his brother Benjamin and his concern for his father's well-being. Throughout the chapter, we see Joseph's faith and trust in God's sovereignty, as he acknowledges that God has brought him to this position of power and authority (Genesis 45:5-8).
Context for the Chapter
Genesis 45 is part of the larger narrative of Joseph's life, which spans from Genesis 37 to Genesis 50. The chapter is a pivotal moment in the story, as Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and begins to provide for their needs. This event is also significant in the larger biblical narrative, as it sets the stage for the Israelites' sojourn in Egypt and their eventual deliverance through the Exodus. The chapter also highlights God's sovereignty and providence, demonstrating that He is in control of all things and works them together for good.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Genesis 45, we are reminded of the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in our own lives. Just as Joseph forgave his brothers and provided for their needs, we are called to forgive those who have wronged us and to trust in God's sovereignty. We are also encouraged to provide for the needs of others, demonstrating God's love and care for His people.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Genesis 45 is about Joseph revealing his identity to his brothers and forgiving them for their past wrongdoings. Joseph provides for his brothers and their families, giving them the best land in Egypt. This chapter shows us the importance of forgiveness and trusting in God's plan, even when things seem difficult or unfair. As Joseph says in Genesis 45:5, "God sent me ahead of you to preserve life", reminding us that God is in control of all things.
Voices from the Church
“The story of Joseph is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and providence, demonstrating that He is in control of all things and works them together for good.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers is a beautiful example of the Christian virtue of forgiveness, which is rooted in God's forgiveness of our sins through Jesus Christ.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Joseph Reveals His Identity (Genesis 45:1-4) — Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, who are shocked and afraid. He reassures them that he has forgiven them and invites them to bring their father, Jacob, to Egypt.
- Joseph's Emotional Reunion with Benjamin (Genesis 45:14-15) — Joseph has an emotional reunion with his brother Benjamin, demonstrating the importance of family relationships and the depth of human emotions.
- Joseph Provides for His Brothers (Genesis 45:16-20) — Joseph provides for his brothers and their families, giving them the best land in Egypt. This demonstrates God's provision and care for His people.
- Joseph's Concern for His Father's Well-being (Genesis 45:21-24) — Joseph's concern for his father's well-being is evident as he invites his brothers to bring Jacob to Egypt and provides for their needs.
- The Brothers' Return to Canaan (Genesis 45:25-28) — The brothers return to Canaan, bringing news of Joseph's identity and invitation to their father, Jacob. This sets the stage for the Israelites' sojourn in Egypt and their eventual deliverance through the Exodus.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- Genesis 45 demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence, highlighting that He is in control of all things and works them together for good.
- Forgiveness
- The chapter teaches the importance of forgiveness, as Joseph forgives his brothers and invites them to start anew.
- Provision
- Joseph's provision for his brothers and their families demonstrates God's care and provision for His people.
- Reconciliation
- The chapter highlights the importance of reconciliation, as Joseph and his brothers are reunited and forgiven.
Lessons from Genesis 45
- Forgiveness is Key to Reconciliation — Genesis 45 teaches us that forgiveness is essential for reconciliation and restoration. Just as Joseph forgave his brothers, we must forgive those who have wronged us.
- God's Sovereignty is Always at Work — The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence, highlighting that He is in control of all things and works them together for good.
- Family Relationships are Important — Joseph's emotional reunion with his brother Benjamin demonstrates the importance of family relationships and the depth of human emotions.
- Provision and Care are Demonstrations of God's Love — Joseph's provision for his brothers and their families demonstrates God's care and provision for His people, highlighting His love and concern for our well-being.
- Reconciliation and Forgiveness are Central to the Gospel — The chapter teaches us that reconciliation and forgiveness are central to the gospel, as Christ forgives our sins and provides for our eternal needs through His death and resurrection.
Themes from Genesis 45
- Sovereignty of God — Genesis 45 demonstrates God's sovereignty and providence, highlighting that He is in control of all things and works them together for good.
- Forgiveness and Reconciliation — The chapter teaches the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, as Joseph forgives his brothers and invites them to start anew.
- Provision and Care — Joseph's provision for his brothers and their families demonstrates God's care and provision for His people, highlighting His love and concern for our well-being.
- Family Relationships — The chapter highlights the importance of family relationships and the depth of human emotions, as Joseph has an emotional reunion with his brother Benjamin.
- God's Plan and Purpose — Genesis 45 demonstrates God's plan and purpose, highlighting that He is in control of all things and works them together for good.
Questions for Meditation
- How does Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers demonstrate God's character and plan for our lives?
- What does Genesis 45 teach us about the importance of family relationships and the depth of human emotions?
- How does Joseph's provision for his brothers and their families demonstrate God's care and provision for His people?
- What does the chapter teach us about the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness in our own lives?
- How does Genesis 45 set the stage for the Israelites' sojourn in Egypt and their eventual deliverance through the Exodus?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Joseph Reveals His Identity (Genesis 45:1-4)
| 45:1 | Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, who are shocked and afraid. He reassures them that he has forgiven them and invites them to bring their father, Jacob, to Egypt. |
| 45:2 | Joseph weeps as he reveals his identity to his brothers, demonstrating the depth of human emotions and the importance of family relationships. |
2. Joseph's Emotional Reunion with Benjamin (Genesis 45:14-15)
| 45:14 | Joseph has an emotional reunion with his brother Benjamin, demonstrating the importance of family relationships and the depth of human emotions. |
| 45:15 | Joseph kisses all his brothers and weeps over them, highlighting the joy and reconciliation of their reunion. |
3. Joseph Provides for His Brothers (Genesis 45:16-20)
| 45:16 | The news of Joseph's identity reaches Pharaoh, who is pleased and instructs Joseph to provide for his brothers and their families. |
| 45:17 | Joseph provides for his brothers, giving them the best land in Egypt and instructing them to settle in the land of Rameses. |
4. Joseph's Concern for His Father's Well-being (Genesis 45:21-24)
| 45:21 | Joseph provides for his brothers and their families, giving them the best land in Egypt and instructing them to settle in the land of Rameses. |
| 45:22 | Joseph gives his brothers changes of clothes and gives Benjamin three hundred shekels of silver and five changes of clothes. |
5. The Brothers' Return to Canaan (Genesis 45:25-28)
| 45:25 | The brothers return to Canaan, bringing news of Joseph's identity and invitation to their father, Jacob. |
| 45:26 | The brothers tell Jacob that Joseph is alive and is the ruler of all Egypt, which brings Jacob joy and encouragement. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Genesis 45?
The main theme of Genesis 45 is reconciliation and forgiveness, as Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and forgives them for their past wrongdoings (Genesis 45:5).
How does Genesis 45 relate to the larger biblical narrative?
Genesis 45 sets the stage for the Israelites' sojourn in Egypt and their eventual deliverance through the Exodus, highlighting God's sovereignty and providence in bringing about reconciliation and restoration.
What does Genesis 45 teach us about forgiveness and reconciliation?
The chapter teaches us that forgiveness is essential for reconciliation and restoration, as Joseph forgives his brothers and invites them to start anew (Genesis 45:5).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 45:5 → Psalm 105:16-17 | The story of Joseph is referenced in Psalm 105, highlighting God's sovereignty and providence in bringing about reconciliation and restoration. |
| 2 | Genesis 45:8 → John 1:1 | The concept of God's sovereignty and providence is a key theme throughout Scripture, including John 1:1, where we see God's plan and purpose in creating the world and redeeming humanity. |
| 3 | Genesis 45:10 → Romans 8:28 | The idea that God works all things together for good is a key theme in Romans 8:28, highlighting God's sovereignty and providence in bringing about reconciliation and restoration. |
| 4 | Genesis 45:14 → Luke 15:20 | The emotional reunion between Joseph and his brother Benjamin is reminiscent of the parable of the prodigal son, where the father runs to meet his son and forgives him (Luke 15:20). |
| 5 | Genesis 45:17 → Deuteronomy 8:7-10 | The concept of God's provision and care for His people is a key theme in Deuteronomy 8, highlighting God's sovereignty and providence in bringing about reconciliation and restoration. |
| 6 | Genesis 45:21 → Matthew 25:34-36 | The idea of providing for the needs of others is a key theme in Matthew 25, highlighting God's care and provision for His people. |
| 7 | Genesis 45:22 → 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 | The concept of generosity and provision for others is a key theme in 2 Corinthians 9, highlighting God's care and provision for His people. |
| 8 | Genesis 45:25 → Hebrews 11:21 | The story of Joseph is referenced in Hebrews 11, highlighting his faith and trust in God's plan and purpose. |
| 9 | Genesis 45:26 → Psalm 105:19 | The concept of God's sovereignty and providence is a key theme in Psalm 105, highlighting God's plan and purpose in bringing about reconciliation and restoration. |
| 10 | Genesis 45:28 → Acts 7:10 | The story of Joseph is referenced in Acts 7, highlighting God's sovereignty and providence in bringing about reconciliation and restoration. |
Sermons on Genesis 45
| Sermon | Description | |
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One Messiah, Two Comings by Jacob Prasch | In this sermon, the speaker begins by quoting a verse from the Bible that declares the power and authority of the Lord. He then relates this verse to the current situation in Jerus |
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Power of True Religion: Power Through Us by J. Glyn Owen | In this sermon, the preacher reflects on a story he heard about a little girl in the hospital who was given a glass of cold milk and told it would do her good. He then delves into |
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(Genesis) Genesis 45:13-28 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the reunion of Joseph and his brothers. Joseph, who had been sold into slavery by his brothers, reveals his true identity to them and forgive |
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(Genesis) Genesis 43:31-34 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joseph and his brothers from the book of Genesis. He highlights the moment when Joseph reveals himself to his brothers after yea |
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Prescription for Anxiety by J. Glyn Owen | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the devastation in Lebanon and Beirut, expressing the horror of witnessing such tragedy. He also highlights the suffering of children in oth |
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God's School of Faith by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a sentence from the book of Joshua that states, "His thoughts are not our thoughts." The speaker suggests that this sentence holds the key to |
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Attitudes on Bitterness by Jim Logan | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis. Joseph experienced many disappointments and heartaches, including being sold into slavery by hi |
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(Genesis) - Part 29 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Joseph and his brothers from the book of Genesis. He highlights the events where Joseph tests his brothers by placing his silver |
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The Power of Forgiveness by Scott Volk | In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a criminal who steals from a priest and knocks him out. The next day, the criminal is caught by the police and accuses the priest of |
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The Wrath of God Lessons From Scripture by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the contemplation of the wrath of God as a means to develop compassion for the lost and to make unbelievers take notice. The speaker also hig |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Genesis 45
Matthew Henry's commentary on Genesis 45 highlights the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, as Joseph forgives his brothers and invites them to start anew. Henry notes that Joseph's actions demonstrate God's sovereignty and providence, highlighting that He is in control of all things and works them together for good. Henry also emphasizes the importance of family relationships and the depth of human emotions, as Joseph has an emotional reunion with his brother Benjamin. Throughout the commentary, Henry encourages readers to trust in God's plan and purpose, even when circumstances seem difficult or unjust, and to demonstrate God's love and care for His people through our actions and provision for others. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Joseph's Emotional Reunion with Benjamin
Joseph's emotional reunion with his brother Benjamin is a powerful example of the importance of family relationships and the depth of human emotions. We see Joseph's love and concern for his brother, as well as his desire to provide for him and his family.
Joseph's Concern for His Father's Well-being
Joseph's concern for his father's well-being is evident throughout the chapter, as he invites his brothers to bring Jacob to Egypt and provides for their needs. This demonstrates the importance of honoring and caring for one's parents.
The Brothers' Fear and Guilt
The brothers' fear and guilt are palpable as they realize their past wrongdoings and face their brother Joseph. This serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness for our sins.