Genesis 43:23

"It is fine," said the steward. "Do not be afraid. Your God, the God of your father, gave you the treasure that was in your sacks. I received your silver." Then he brought Simeon out to them.

Study Bible

It is all right
This phrase is a reassurance from the steward, indicating peace and calm. In the Hebrew context, the word often translated as "peace" is "shalom," which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but a sense of completeness and well-being. The steward's words are meant to alleviate the brothers' fears, suggesting that everything is in order and under control, reflecting God's providential care.

said the steward
The steward, a servant of Joseph, plays a crucial role in this narrative. His position is one of authority and trust, as he manages Joseph's household affairs. Historically, stewards were often entrusted with significant responsibilities, and their words carried weight. This steward's actions and words are instrumental in unfolding God's plan for Joseph's family.

Do not be afraid
Fear is a common human response, especially in uncertain situations. The Hebrew root for "afraid" is "yare," which can mean to fear, revere, or be in awe. Here, the steward's command not to fear is a call to trust in God's provision and protection, echoing a frequent biblical theme where God reassures His people not to fear because He is with them.

Your God, the God of your father
This phrase emphasizes the continuity of faith from the patriarchs to their descendants. The reference to "the God of your father" connects the brothers to the covenantal promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It underscores the faithfulness of God across generations, reminding the brothers of their spiritual heritage and God's enduring presence.

has given you treasure in your sacks
The "treasure" in their sacks is a mysterious provision, symbolizing God's unexpected blessings. The Hebrew word for "treasure" can also imply something hidden or stored up, suggesting that God's blessings often come in unforeseen ways. This provision is a tangible reminder of God's grace and favor, even when the brothers are unaware of it.

I received your silver
This statement clarifies that the payment for the grain was indeed received, removing any suspicion of wrongdoing. The steward's acknowledgment of the silver reassures the brothers of their integrity. In a broader sense, it reflects the biblical principle that God sees and knows all things, and He ensures justice and righteousness.

Then he brought Simeon out to them
Simeon's release is a pivotal moment, symbolizing reconciliation and the restoration of relationships. In the broader narrative, it foreshadows the eventual reunion and reconciliation of Joseph with his brothers. This act of bringing Simeon out is a step towards healing and unity, reflecting God's redemptive plan for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Steward
An Egyptian servant in charge of Joseph's household, who reassures Joseph's brothers about the silver in their sacks.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob, who are returning to Egypt with Benjamin to buy more grain and are concerned about the silver found in their sacks.

3. Simeon
One of Joseph's brothers who was held in Egypt as a guarantee for the return of the others with Benjamin.

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

5. God of your father
Refers to the God of Jacob, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant and faithfulness to the patriarchs.

Teaching Points

Divine Providence
God's hand is evident in the events of our lives, even when we do not understand them. The brothers' fear is met with reassurance, reminding us to trust in God's provision.

Fear and Faith
The steward's words, "Do not be afraid," echo throughout Scripture as a call to trust in God's faithfulness. In moments of fear, we are invited to lean on God's promises.

God's Faithfulness
The reference to "the God of your father" highlights the enduring faithfulness of God to His covenant people. We are encouraged to remember God's past faithfulness in our own lives.

Reconciliation and Restoration
The release of Simeon foreshadows the eventual reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers. God's plans often involve restoration and healing of relationships.

Generosity and Grace
The unexpected treasure in the sacks symbolizes God's grace, which is given freely and abundantly. We are called to reflect this generosity in our interactions with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the steward's reassurance in Genesis 43:23 reflect God's character and His dealings with us today?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence in the events of our own lives, similar to the account of Joseph and his brothers?

3. How does the theme of fear and faith in this passage connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

4. What can we learn about God's faithfulness from the reference to "the God of your father" in this verse?

5. How can we apply the principles of generosity and grace, as seen in the unexpected treasure, in our daily lives and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The previous chapter where the brothers first find the silver in their sacks, setting the stage for their fear and confusion.

Genesis 45
Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, showing God's providence in the events leading up to this moment.

Exodus 3:6
God identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, reinforcing the covenant relationship.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about trusting God for provision, paralleling the reassurance given by the steward.