Genesis 50:20

As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this--to preserve the lives of many people.

Study Bible

As for you,
This phrase addresses Joseph's brothers, who had previously sold him into slavery. It highlights the personal nature of the conversation and the direct accountability of the brothers' actions. This moment is a culmination of a long narrative arc that began in Genesis 37, where Joseph's brothers acted out of jealousy and hatred.

what you intended against me for evil,
The brothers' intentions were rooted in malice and jealousy, as they sought to rid themselves of Joseph, whom they saw as a threat due to their father's favoritism. This reflects the human tendency towards sin and the destructive nature of envy, as seen in other biblical narratives like Cain and Abel (Genesis 4).

God intended for good,
This statement underscores the sovereignty of God, who can transform human evil into divine good. It echoes the theme of Romans 8:28, where God works all things for the good of those who love Him. It also foreshadows the ultimate good brought through Jesus Christ, who, though crucified by evil intentions, brought salvation to humanity.

in order to accomplish a day like this—
The phrase points to the specific outcome of Joseph's rise to power in Egypt, which was part of God's larger plan. This reflects the providential nature of God's plans, which often unfold over time and through unexpected means. It also connects to the broader biblical theme of God's timing and purpose, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:1.

to preserve the lives of many people.
Joseph's position in Egypt allowed him to save not only his family but also many others during a severe famine. This act of preservation is a type of Christ, who came to save humanity from spiritual death. It also fulfills God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:3, that through his descendants, all nations would be blessed.

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.

2. Joseph's Brothers
They initially intended harm against Joseph by selling him into slavery, which set the stage for the events that followed.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph rose to power and where the events of this passage take place. It became a place of refuge during the famine.

4. Famine
A severe famine affected the region, leading Joseph's family to seek help in Egypt, which Joseph had prepared for under God's guidance.

5. God's Sovereignty
The overarching theme of this event is God's ability to use human actions, even those intended for evil, to fulfill His divine purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Trust that God can use even the most difficult situations for His purposes and our good.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph's response to his brothers teaches us the importance of forgiveness and seeking reconciliation, even when wronged.

Perspective on Trials
View challenges as opportunities for God to work in unexpected ways, shaping our character and faith.

Purpose in Pain
Understand that God can bring about His purposes through our suffering, often using it to bless others.

Faith in God's Plan
Maintain faith that God's plan is greater than our understanding, and He is always at work behind the scenes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers reflect his understanding of God's sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in our own lives, even in situations that seem intended for harm?

3. How can Joseph's account encourage us to forgive those who have wronged us?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain faith in God's plan during difficult times?

5. How does the theme of God using evil for good in Genesis 50:20 connect with the account of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 8:28
This verse echoes the theme of God working all things for good for those who love Him, similar to how Joseph's situation was turned for good.

Jeremiah 29:11
God's plans for His people are for their welfare and not for evil, aligning with the idea that God intended Joseph's situation for good.

Acts 2:23-24
The crucifixion of Jesus, intended for evil by His persecutors, was used by God for the ultimate good of salvation, paralleling Joseph's account.