Genesis 42:22

And Reuben responded, "Didn't I tell you not to sin against the boy? But you would not listen. Now we must account for his blood!"

Study Bible

And Reuben responded
Reuben, the eldest son of Jacob, often took a leadership role among his brothers. His response here indicates his earlier attempt to protect Joseph, showing a sense of responsibility and moral awareness. This reflects his earlier actions in Genesis 37:21-22, where he tried to save Joseph from being killed by suggesting they throw him into a pit instead.

“Didn’t I tell you not to sin against the boy?
Reuben's words remind his brothers of his previous warning, highlighting his foresight and the moral implications of their actions. The term "sin" indicates a violation of divine law, emphasizing the gravity of their betrayal. This echoes the biblical theme of accountability and the consequences of sin, as seen in Numbers 32:23, "be sure your sin will find you out."

But you would not listen.
This phrase underscores the brothers' stubbornness and collective decision to ignore Reuben's counsel. It reflects a recurring biblical theme where ignoring wise counsel leads to negative consequences, as seen in Proverbs 1:24-31, where wisdom's call is ignored, leading to calamity.

Now we must account for his blood!”
Reuben's statement foreshadows the principle of divine justice and retribution. The concept of "accounting for blood" is rooted in the biblical understanding of justice, where innocent blood cries out for vengeance, as seen in Genesis 4:10 with Abel's blood. This also prefigures the ultimate atonement through Christ's blood, which speaks a better word than the blood of Abel (Hebrews 12:24).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuben
The eldest son of Jacob, who initially tried to save Joseph from being killed by his brothers. He is now expressing his regret and reminding his brothers of their past sin.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The group of siblings who conspired against Joseph, leading to his being sold into slavery. They are now facing the consequences of their actions as they deal with the famine in Egypt.

3. Joseph
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the central figure in the account. His past suffering and current position in Egypt are pivotal to the unfolding events.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to buy grain during the famine.

5. The Famine
A severe famine affecting the region, driving Joseph's brothers to Egypt for food, setting the stage for their encounter with Joseph.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has lasting consequences, and unrepented actions can lead to guilt and accountability. Reuben's reminder to his brothers highlights the importance of considering the long-term effects of our actions.

The Importance of Listening to Wise Counsel
Reuben's initial advice to spare Joseph was ignored, leading to regret. This teaches the value of heeding wise counsel and the potential consequences of ignoring it.

God's Sovereignty in Redemption
Despite the brothers' sin, God used the situation to fulfill His purposes. This demonstrates God's ability to redeem even the worst situations for His glory and our good.

The Need for Repentance and Reconciliation
The brothers' guilt points to the need for repentance and seeking reconciliation, both with those we have wronged and with God.

Personal Accountability
Each individual is accountable for their actions. Reuben's statement is a reminder that we must all give an account for our deeds, encouraging us to live righteously.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Reuben's response in Genesis 42:22 reflect the concept of personal accountability, and how can this be applied in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the consequences of ignoring wise counsel? Can you think of a situation in your life where you faced similar choices?

3. How does the theme of redemption in Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when we face difficult circumstances?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we listen to and apply wise counsel in our decision-making processes?

5. How can the principle of giving an account for our actions, as seen in Genesis 42:22 and Romans 14:12, influence our behavior and relationships with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, which is the sin Reuben refers to in Genesis 42:22.

Genesis 9:5-6
The principle of accounting for bloodshed, which echoes Reuben's statement about being accountable for Joseph's blood.

Matthew 27:3-4
Judas' remorse after betraying Jesus, similar to the brothers' guilt and Reuben's regret.

Romans 14:12
The concept of giving an account of oneself to God, paralleling the brothers' need to account for their actions.