Genesis 42:20

Then bring your youngest brother to me so that your words can be verified, that you may not die." And to this they consented.

Study Bible

Then bring your youngest brother to me
Joseph, now a powerful figure in Egypt, demands that his brothers bring Benjamin, their youngest brother, to him. This request tests the brothers' honesty and integrity, as Joseph seeks to verify their story. Benjamin, the only other son of Rachel, holds a special place in Jacob's heart, similar to Joseph. This demand also serves as a test of the brothers' repentance and change of heart since they sold Joseph into slavery. The request foreshadows the eventual reunion and reconciliation of the family.

so that your words can be verified
Joseph's insistence on verifying their words highlights the importance of truth and integrity. In the ancient Near Eastern context, oaths and promises were taken seriously, and verifying one's words was crucial for maintaining trust and relationships. This phrase underscores the theme of truth prevailing over deceit, a recurring motif in the narrative of Joseph and his brothers.

that you may not die.”
The threat of death underscores the severity of the situation. In the ancient world, famine and political instability often led to harsh measures to ensure survival. Joseph's brothers are faced with the reality that their lives depend on their honesty and obedience. This echoes the broader biblical theme of life and death being contingent on one's relationship with God and adherence to His commands.

And to this they consented.
The brothers' consent marks a turning point in their journey. It reflects their willingness to face the consequences of their past actions and to take responsibility for their family. This moment of agreement also sets the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, as the brothers' actions lead to the eventual preservation of the family line through which the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would come. Their consent is a step towards reconciliation and fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
- The governor of Egypt, who was once sold into slavery by his brothers. He is now in a position of power and is testing his brothers' integrity.

2. Joseph's Brothers
- The sons of Jacob who have come to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. They do not recognize Joseph and are unaware of his true identity.

3. Benjamin
- The youngest brother, who is not present with the others in Egypt. Joseph demands his presence as a test of their honesty.

4. Egypt
- The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to seek food during the famine.

5. Famine
- A severe shortage of food that has affected the entire region, prompting Joseph's brothers to travel to Egypt.

Teaching Points

Integrity and Honesty
Joseph's demand for Benjamin is a test of his brothers' integrity. In our lives, we should strive to be honest and trustworthy in all our dealings.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
Joseph's interactions with his brothers highlight the importance of reconciliation. We should seek to mend broken relationships and offer forgiveness.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the brothers' past actions, God uses the situation for good. We can trust that God is in control and can bring good out of difficult circumstances.

Testing and Growth
Just as Joseph tested his brothers, God may allow tests in our lives to refine our character and grow our faith.

Family and Responsibility
The brothers' responsibility to bring Benjamin reflects the importance of family and caring for one another. We should prioritize our family relationships and responsibilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's demand for Benjamin serve as a test of his brothers' integrity, and what can we learn from this about the importance of honesty in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the process of reconciliation, and how can we apply these principles to our relationships today?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty play out in the events of Genesis 42, and how can this understanding impact our perspective on difficult situations?

4. What are some ways that God might test our character and faith, and how can we respond to these tests in a way that honors Him?

5. How does the responsibility the brothers have towards Benjamin reflect our own responsibilities towards our family, and what practical steps can we take to fulfill these responsibilities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Genesis 44
The continuation of Joseph's testing of his brothers, particularly focusing on Benjamin's role and the brothers' response.

Matthew 5:23-24
The teaching of reconciliation, which can be related to the eventual reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers.

Luke 6:31
The principle of treating others as you would like to be treated, which Joseph exemplifies in his dealings with his brothers.

Romans 12:17-21
The call to overcome evil with good, which Joseph demonstrates by not seeking revenge on his brothers.