Genesis 43:7

They replied, "The man questioned us in detail about ourselves and our family: 'Is your father still alive? Do you have another brother?' And we answered him accordingly. How could we possibly know that he would say, 'Bring your brother here'?"

Study Bible

They replied, “The man questioned us in detail about ourselves and our family:
This phrase refers to Joseph, who is now the governor of Egypt, though his brothers do not recognize him. The detailed questioning reflects Joseph's desire to learn about his family after years of separation. This interrogation is significant as it sets the stage for the eventual reconciliation. The cultural context of the time would have made such questioning seem thorough but not unusual, as travelers often needed to provide information about their origins and intentions.

‘Is your father still alive?
Joseph's inquiry about their father, Jacob, indicates his deep concern and longing for his family. This question is poignant, considering Joseph's long absence and the uncertainty about his father's well-being. It also foreshadows the eventual reunion between Joseph and Jacob, which is a pivotal moment in the narrative of Genesis.

Do you have another brother?’
Joseph's question about another brother refers to Benjamin, his only full brother, as both were sons of Rachel. This inquiry is crucial because Benjamin's presence is central to Joseph's plan to test his brothers' integrity and loyalty. The mention of another brother also highlights the theme of family and brotherhood, which is prevalent throughout the book of Genesis.

And we answered him accordingly.
The brothers' response to Joseph's questions shows their honesty in this situation, contrasting with their earlier deceit when they sold Joseph into slavery. This moment is part of their character development and the broader theme of redemption and forgiveness that runs through the Joseph narrative.

How could we possibly know that he would say, ‘Bring your brother here’?”
This rhetorical question underscores the brothers' bewilderment and lack of foresight. It highlights the unfolding of God's providential plan, which they are unaware of. The demand to bring Benjamin to Egypt is a test orchestrated by Joseph to see if his brothers have changed since their betrayal. This situation also serves as a type of Christ, where Joseph, like Jesus, tests and ultimately forgives those who wronged him, leading to reconciliation and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
- The governor of Egypt, who is actually the brothers' sibling, though they do not recognize him. He is testing his brothers' integrity and repentance.

2. Joseph's Brothers
- The sons of Jacob, who are in Egypt to buy grain during a famine. They are unaware that the Egyptian official they are dealing with is their brother Joseph.

3. Jacob (Israel)
- The father of Joseph and his brothers, who is back in Canaan, worried about the safety of his sons and particularly Benjamin.

4. Egypt
- The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to buy food.

5. Benjamin
- The youngest brother, whom Joseph demands to see, testing his brothers' honesty and loyalty.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Joseph's brothers unknowingly fulfill God's plan, demonstrating that God can use even our ignorance and mistakes for His purposes.

The Importance of Integrity
The brothers' honesty in recounting their conversation with Joseph shows a shift from their earlier deceitful behavior.

Family Dynamics and Reconciliation
The account encourages us to seek reconciliation and healing in our own family relationships, trusting God's timing and methods.

Trust in God's Plan
Even when circumstances seem confusing or threatening, like the brothers facing Joseph's demands, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes.

Repentance and Change
The brothers' journey reflects a path of repentance and transformation, reminding us that change is possible with God's help.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's questioning of his brothers serve as a test of their character and integrity?

2. In what ways does this passage illustrate the theme of God's providence and sovereignty?

3. How can we apply the lessons of family reconciliation and forgiveness from this account to our own lives?

4. What does the brothers' response to Joseph's questions reveal about their growth since selling Joseph into slavery?

5. How can we trust God's plan in our lives when we face situations that seem confusing or challenging, as Joseph's brothers did?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42:7-8
Joseph recognizes his brothers, but they do not recognize him, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.

Genesis 44:18-34
Judah's plea to Joseph, showing a change of heart and responsibility for Benjamin, contrasting with their earlier treatment of Joseph.

Genesis 45:1-15
Joseph reveals his identity, showing God's providence and the fulfillment of his earlier dreams.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen recounts Joseph's account, highlighting God's sovereignty and Joseph's rise to power in Egypt.