Genesis 45:7

God sent me before you to preserve you as a remnant on the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.

Study Bible

God sent me before you
This phrase highlights the divine orchestration in Joseph's journey to Egypt. Despite the malicious intent of his brothers, God had a sovereign plan. This reflects the biblical theme of God's providence, where He uses human actions, even those meant for harm, to fulfill His purposes (Genesis 50:20). Joseph's role as a forerunner is a type of Christ, who was sent ahead to prepare the way for salvation (John 1:29-30).

to preserve you as a remnant on the earth
The concept of a "remnant" is significant throughout Scripture, often referring to a small, faithful group preserved by God during times of judgment or calamity (Isaiah 10:20-22). Here, Joseph's position in Egypt ensures the survival of Jacob's family during the famine, preserving the lineage through which the Messiah would come. This preservation is a testament to God's covenantal faithfulness to Abraham's descendants (Genesis 12:1-3).

and to save your lives
Joseph's role in saving his family from famine is a direct act of deliverance, prefiguring the ultimate salvation offered through Jesus Christ. Just as Joseph provided physical sustenance, Christ offers spiritual salvation (John 6:35). This deliverance also underscores the theme of redemption, where God rescues His people from peril.

by a great deliverance
The "great deliverance" refers to the extraordinary means by which God saved Jacob's family, ensuring the continuation of His covenant promises. This deliverance is not only physical but also spiritual, as it sets the stage for the eventual formation of the nation of Israel. It parallels the future deliverance of Israel from Egypt during the Exodus, another pivotal moment of salvation history (Exodus 14:30-31).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The central figure in this passage, Joseph is speaking to his brothers. He was sold into slavery by them but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt. His journey from suffering to leadership is a testament to God's providence.

2. Joseph's Brothers
They are the recipients of Joseph's revelation. They had previously betrayed him, but now they are in need of his help during a famine.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph was taken as a slave and where he eventually became second in command. It serves as the backdrop for God's plan to preserve the family of Israel.

4. God's Providence
The overarching theme of this passage is God's sovereign plan to use Joseph's trials for the greater good of preserving His chosen people.

5. Famine
The event that brought Joseph's brothers to Egypt, setting the stage for reconciliation and the fulfillment of God's plan.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Recognize that God can use difficult circumstances for His greater purpose and our ultimate good.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph's willingness to forgive his brothers is a powerful example of grace and reconciliation, which we are called to emulate.

Purpose in Suffering
Understand that our trials may have a divine purpose beyond our immediate understanding, as seen in Joseph's life.

Trust in God's Plan
Trust that God is in control, even when His plans are not immediately clear to us.

Preservation of God's People
Reflect on how God preserves His people through various means, ensuring the fulfillment of His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's understanding of his situation reflect a deep trust in God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Joseph's account encourage us to forgive those who have wronged us, and what other biblical examples of forgiveness can we draw from?

3. How can we find purpose in our own suffering, and what scriptures can we turn to for encouragement during difficult times?

4. What does Joseph's account teach us about the importance of reconciliation, and how can we pursue reconciliation in our relationships today?

5. How does the preservation of Joseph's family relate to God's larger plan for Israel, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness to His promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 50:20
This verse echoes the theme of God's providence, where Joseph reassures his brothers that what they intended for harm, God intended for good.

Romans 8:28
This New Testament verse reinforces the idea that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, aligning with Joseph's understanding of his life's events.

Psalm 105:16-22
This passage recounts Joseph's account, highlighting God's hand in his rise to power and the preservation of Israel.