Genesis 50:17

This is what you are to say to Joseph: I beg you, please forgive the transgression and sin of your brothers, for they did you wrong.' So now, Joseph, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father." When their message came to him, Joseph wept.

Study Bible

This is what you are to say to Joseph:
This phrase indicates a message being relayed to Joseph, highlighting the importance of communication and mediation in resolving conflicts. In the broader context of Genesis, Joseph's brothers are seeking reconciliation after their betrayal. This reflects the biblical theme of repentance and forgiveness, which is central to the narrative of Joseph and his brothers.

I beg you, please forgive the transgression and sin of your brothers:
The plea for forgiveness underscores the gravity of the brothers' actions against Joseph, which included selling him into slavery. The use of both "transgression" and "sin" emphasizes the seriousness of their wrongdoing. This reflects the biblical principle that true repentance involves acknowledging one's sins and seeking forgiveness. The request for forgiveness is a precursor to the New Testament teachings on forgiveness, as seen in Matthew 6:14-15.

for they did you wrong:
This phrase acknowledges the harm caused to Joseph, which is an essential step in the process of reconciliation. It is a confession of guilt, aligning with the biblical concept that confession is necessary for forgiveness. The wrong done to Joseph is a type of the suffering of Christ, who was also wronged by those He came to save.

So now, Joseph, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.”
This appeal to Joseph's faith and his father's God highlights the covenant relationship with God that the family shares. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual heritage and the importance of maintaining unity among God's people. The reference to "the God of your father" connects to the patriarchal promises given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant.

When their message came to him, Joseph wept.
Joseph's weeping reveals his deep emotional response, indicating both his compassion and the pain of past wounds. This mirrors the heart of God, who is moved by repentance and seeks restoration. Joseph's tears can be seen as a type of Christ's compassion, as Jesus wept over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41) and at the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:35), showing His empathy and love for humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt. His account is one of forgiveness and God's providence.

2. Joseph's Brothers
They wronged Joseph by selling him into slavery, but later sought his forgiveness after their father's death.

3. Jacob (Israel)
The father of Joseph and his brothers, whose death prompted the brothers to seek Joseph's forgiveness.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph rose to power and where the events of this chapter take place.

5. The Message of Forgiveness
The plea for forgiveness sent by Joseph's brothers, which reflects their fear and recognition of their wrongdoing.

Teaching Points

The Power of Forgiveness
Joseph's willingness to forgive his brothers demonstrates the transformative power of forgiveness. As believers, we are called to forgive others, reflecting God's grace in our lives.

God's Sovereignty and Providence
Joseph's account illustrates how God can use even the most painful circumstances for His purposes. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace and perspective in difficult times.

Repentance and Reconciliation
The brothers' plea for forgiveness shows the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing and seeking reconciliation. True repentance is a step towards healing and restored relationships.

Emotional Response to Forgiveness
Joseph's weeping upon receiving the message highlights the deep emotional impact of forgiveness. It is a reminder that forgiveness can bring healing not only to relationships but also to our own hearts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers' plea for forgiveness reflect the character of God as seen in other parts of Scripture?

2. In what ways can we apply Joseph's example of forgiveness in our own lives, especially in situations where we have been deeply wronged?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty, as seen in Joseph's life, help us trust Him in our own difficult circumstances?

4. What steps can we take to seek reconciliation with those we have wronged, and how does this align with biblical teachings on repentance?

5. How can the emotional aspect of forgiveness, as seen in Joseph's weeping, inform our understanding of the healing process in broken relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 6:14-15
Jesus teaches about the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us, which parallels Joseph's act of forgiveness.

Ephesians 4:32
Paul instructs believers to be kind and forgiving, just as God forgave us in Christ, echoing Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers.

Genesis 45:4-5
Earlier in Genesis, Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and forgives them, showing his understanding of God's plan.