Genesis 42:28

"My silver has been returned!" he said to his brothers. "It is here in my sack." Their hearts sank, and trembling, they turned to one another and said, "What is this that God has done to us?"

Study Bible

My silver has been returned
The phrase "My silver has been returned" is a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting the unexpected and mysterious return of the payment. In Hebrew, the word for silver, "כֶּסֶף" (kesef), often symbolizes wealth and transaction. This return of silver is not just a physical act but a divine intervention that sets the stage for the brothers' introspection and fear. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His plan, even when human understanding is limited.

he said to his brothers
The act of speaking to his brothers signifies a moment of shared realization and collective anxiety. The Hebrew word for "said," "אָמַר" (amar), is frequently used in the Bible to denote communication that carries weight and significance. This communication among the brothers is crucial as it reflects their unity in facing the unknown and their shared guilt over past actions, particularly their treatment of Joseph.

Here it is in my sack
The phrase "Here it is in my sack" underscores the tangible evidence of the silver's return. The sack, or "שַׂק" (saq) in Hebrew, is a simple container, yet it holds profound implications. This moment of discovery is a catalyst for the brothers' fear and confusion, as it challenges their understanding of justice and divine retribution. It is a physical manifestation of the unexpected ways God can work in their lives.

Their hearts sank
The expression "Their hearts sank" captures the emotional turmoil and dread experienced by the brothers. In Hebrew thought, the heart, "לֵב" (lev), is the center of emotion and will. This sinking of the heart indicates a deep, visceral reaction to the situation, reflecting their inner turmoil and the weight of their conscience. It is a moment of vulnerability that opens the door to repentance and transformation.

and trembling, they turned to one another
The trembling and turning to one another signifies a shared fear and a search for understanding among the brothers. The Hebrew word for trembling, "חָרַד" (charad), conveys a sense of fear and anxiety. This reaction is not just physical but spiritual, as they grapple with the implications of the silver's return. Their turning to one another highlights the importance of community and support in times of crisis, as well as the collective nature of their guilt and redemption.

What is this that God has done to us?
This rhetorical question reveals the brothers' recognition of divine involvement in their circumstances. The Hebrew word for God, "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), emphasizes His power and authority. This acknowledgment of God's hand in their situation marks a turning point in their spiritual journey. It reflects a growing awareness of divine justice and mercy, prompting them to reflect on their past actions and seek reconciliation. This question encapsulates the mystery of God's ways and the transformative power of His providence in the lives of those who seek Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who traveled to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. They are unaware that the Egyptian official they are dealing with is their brother Joseph, whom they sold into slavery years earlier.

2. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power as the second-in-command under Pharaoh. It is a place of refuge during the famine but also a place of testing for Joseph's brothers.

3. The Return of the Money
The event where the brothers discover their money returned in their sacks, causing fear and confusion. This act is part of Joseph's test to see if his brothers have changed.

4. God's Providence
The brothers attribute the mysterious return of their money to God's actions, indicating their awareness of divine involvement in their circumstances.

5. Famine
The severe famine affecting the region, which forces Jacob's family to seek sustenance in Egypt, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's plan for Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Recognize that God is in control, even in confusing or fearful situations. The brothers' fear upon finding the money reflects a lack of understanding of God's sovereign plan.

Confronting Past Sins
The brothers' reaction shows their guilty conscience. Reflect on how unresolved sin can affect our perception of current events and our relationship with God.

Providence and Provision
Trust in God's provision, even when it comes in unexpected ways. The returned money was a sign of God's provision, though initially perceived as a threat.

Fear vs. Faith
The brothers' fear contrasts with the faith required to trust in God's plan. Consider how faith can transform our response to life's uncertainties.

Divine Purpose in Adversity
Understand that God can use adversity to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the discovery of the money in their sacks reveal the brothers' state of mind and spiritual condition?

2. In what ways can unresolved guilt from past actions affect our current relationship with God and others?

3. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the principle of Romans 8:28 in your own life?

4. What are some practical ways to cultivate faith over fear when facing uncertain or challenging situations?

5. How can we discern God's providence and provision in our lives, especially when it comes in unexpected forms?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, which sets the background for the events in Genesis 42.

Genesis 45
Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, showing God's providential plan in bringing good out of their evil actions.

Romans 8:28
The principle that God works all things together for good for those who love Him, reflecting the overarching theme of God's sovereignty in Joseph's account.

Proverbs 21:1
The idea that God directs the hearts of rulers, as seen in Joseph's rise to power in Egypt.

Psalm 105:16-22
A recounting of Joseph's account, emphasizing God's faithfulness and providence.