Genesis 45:17

Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Tell your brothers, 'Do as follows: Load your animals and return to the land of Canaan.

Study Bible

Pharaoh said to Joseph
This phrase highlights the authority and influence Joseph held in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh himself. Joseph's rise from a Hebrew slave to a powerful leader is a testament to God's providence and favor. This mirrors the story of Daniel, who also rose to prominence in a foreign land. Joseph's position allowed him to act as a mediator between Pharaoh and his family, a type of Christ who mediates between God and humanity.

Tell your brothers
Joseph's brothers, who had previously sold him into slavery, are now recipients of grace and provision. This reflects themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, central to the Christian message. Joseph's actions prefigure Christ's forgiveness of those who wronged Him. The brothers' journey to Egypt also fulfills God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would sojourn in a foreign land (Genesis 15:13).

‘Do as follows: Load your animals
The instruction to load their animals indicates preparation for a significant journey. This reflects the nomadic lifestyle of the patriarchs and the importance of livestock in their economy and survival. The act of loading animals for travel is reminiscent of the Israelites' later exodus from Egypt, where they also prepared to leave with their possessions.

and return to the land of Canaan.
Canaan is the land promised by God to Abraham and his descendants. The return to Canaan signifies a return to the land of promise and covenant. This journey foreshadows the eventual return of the Israelites from Egypt during the Exodus. Canaan represents not just a physical location but a spiritual inheritance, paralleling the Christian hope of entering the promised rest in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who shows favor to Joseph and his family. His command reflects his trust in Joseph and his desire to support Joseph's family.

2. Joseph
The son of Jacob who rose to power in Egypt. He is a key figure in the account, acting as a mediator between Pharaoh and his family.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who had previously sold Joseph into slavery. They are now recipients of Pharaoh's generosity through Joseph's intercession.

4. Canaan
The land where Joseph's family resides. It is significant as the Promised Land given to Abraham and his descendants.

5. Egypt
The place where Joseph has risen to power and where his family will find refuge during the famine.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Providence
God's hand is evident in Joseph's rise to power and the provision for his family. Trust in God's plan, even when circumstances seem dire.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph's relationship with his brothers demonstrates the power of forgiveness. Seek reconciliation and extend grace to those who have wronged you.

The Role of Leadership and Influence
Joseph uses his position to bless others. Use your influence to serve and uplift those around you, reflecting Christ's love.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph remained faithful to God despite his trials. Stay committed to God, knowing He can use your circumstances for His glory.

Generosity and Provision
Pharaoh's generosity towards Joseph's family is a model of provision. Be open-handed and generous, trusting God to meet your needs.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's command to Joseph reflect God's providence in Joseph's life and the lives of his family?

2. In what ways can Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's plan during difficult times?

3. How does Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers challenge us to approach our own relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's use of his leadership position in Egypt?

5. How can we apply the principles of generosity and provision in our own lives, as seen in Pharaoh's actions towards Joseph's family?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
God's promise to Abraham about making him a great nation and blessing all families of the earth through him. Joseph's account is a fulfillment of this promise as his position in Egypt saves many lives.

Genesis 50:20
Joseph's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty in turning his brothers' evil intentions into good. This reflects the overarching theme of God's providence in Genesis 45:17.

Exodus 1:8-10
The eventual rise of a Pharaoh who did not know Joseph, leading to the Israelites' enslavement. This highlights the temporary nature of human favor and the need for reliance on God.