Genesis 40:4

The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he became their personal attendant. After they had been in custody for some time,

Study Bible

The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph
In the context of Genesis, the "captain of the guard" refers to Potiphar, who had previously purchased Joseph as a slave. This indicates a level of trust and authority given to Joseph, despite his status as a prisoner. Potiphar's role as captain of the guard suggests he was responsible for the security of Pharaoh's interests, including the prison. Joseph's assignment to care for the chief cupbearer and the chief baker, both high-ranking officials, highlights his administrative skills and God's favor upon him. This trust foreshadows Joseph's future rise to power in Egypt.

and he became their personal attendant
Joseph's role as a personal attendant to these officials demonstrates his humility and willingness to serve, even in difficult circumstances. This service-oriented attitude is a recurring theme in Joseph's life and is reflective of the biblical principle that those who are faithful in small things will be entrusted with greater responsibilities (Luke 16:10). Joseph's service also prefigures Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).

After they had been in custody for some time
The phrase "for some time" suggests a period of waiting and uncertainty, which is a common experience for many biblical figures. This waiting period is significant as it sets the stage for the unfolding of God's plan through dreams and their interpretations. It also mirrors the theme of patience and endurance found throughout Scripture, such as in the lives of Abraham and David. The delay in their release serves to highlight God's perfect timing in bringing about His purposes, as seen in Romans 8:28.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man sold into slavery by his brothers, who rose to a position of trust in Potiphar's house and later in the prison. He is known for his ability to interpret dreams, which plays a crucial role in his life and the lives of others.

2. Captain of the Guard
Likely Potiphar, who was an officer of Pharaoh and the one who initially purchased Joseph as a slave. He is responsible for the prison where Joseph is held.

3. The Prison
The place where Joseph is confined after being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. It becomes a setting for divine appointments and Joseph's continued faithfulness.

4. The Cupbearer and the Baker
Two officials of Pharaoh who were imprisoned and placed under Joseph's care. Their dreams and Joseph's interpretations of them are pivotal to the unfolding of God's plan for Joseph.

5. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose officials are imprisoned and whose dreams later lead to Joseph's rise to power.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph's consistent faithfulness, even in unjust circumstances, serves as a model for believers to trust God and remain diligent in their duties regardless of their situation.

Divine Appointments
God orchestrates events and relationships for His purposes. Joseph's interactions with the cupbearer and baker were not coincidental but part of God's plan to elevate him.

Serving Others
Joseph's willingness to serve others, even in prison, reflects a Christ-like attitude of humility and service, which believers are called to emulate.

God's Timing
The phrase "for some time" indicates a period of waiting and preparation. Believers are reminded that God's timing is perfect, and patience is often required as His plans unfold.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's attitude and behavior in prison reflect his faith in God, and how can we apply this to our own lives when facing difficult circumstances?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph in Genesis 40 demonstrate God's sovereignty and providence, and how can this encourage us in our personal walk with God?

3. How can we identify and respond to "divine appointments" in our own lives, similar to Joseph's interactions with the cupbearer and baker?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's service to others, even in a place of confinement, and how can we apply these lessons in our communities and workplaces?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for God's timing. How did that experience shape your faith, and what biblical principles can help you during periods of waiting?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 39
Provides context for Joseph's imprisonment and his rise to a position of trust even in prison, highlighting God's favor upon him.

Genesis 41
Shows the fulfillment of Joseph's interpretations of the dreams and his subsequent rise to power in Egypt, demonstrating God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

Psalm 105:17-19
Reflects on Joseph's journey and God's purpose in his trials, emphasizing the testing of his character.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen's speech recounts Joseph's account, illustrating God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises.