Topical Bible: Slander: Joseph by Potiphar's Wife

◄ Slander: Joseph by Potiphar's Wife ►

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Biblical Context:
The account of Joseph and Potiphar's wife is found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 39. Joseph, the son of Jacob, was sold into slavery by his brothers and brought to Egypt, where he was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. Joseph quickly gained favor in Potiphar's household due to his diligence and the Lord's blessing upon him.

The Incident:
Joseph was a handsome and well-built young man, and Potiphar's wife took notice of him. She attempted to seduce Joseph, saying, "Lie with me" (Genesis 39:7). Joseph, however, refused her advances, citing his loyalty to Potiphar and his fear of sinning against God: "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9).

Despite Joseph's repeated refusals, Potiphar's wife persisted. One day, when Joseph entered the house to attend to his duties, she caught him by his cloak and again demanded that he lie with her. Joseph fled, leaving his cloak in her hand as he ran outside (Genesis 39:12).

The Slander:
In retaliation for his rejection, Potiphar's wife falsely accused Joseph of attempting to assault her. She called the men of her household and said, "Look, he brought us a Hebrew to make sport of us! He came in here to sleep with me, but I screamed" (Genesis 39:14). She kept Joseph's cloak beside her until Potiphar came home, and she repeated her accusation, saying, "The Hebrew slave you brought us came to me to make sport of me" (Genesis 39:17).

Consequences:
Potiphar, upon hearing his wife's fabricated account, became enraged and had Joseph imprisoned. Despite the false accusation and subsequent punishment, the Lord remained with Joseph, showing him steadfast love and granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden (Genesis 39:21).

Theological Implications:
The account of Joseph and Potiphar's wife highlights the destructive power of slander and false accusations. It serves as a reminder of the moral integrity and faithfulness required of God's people, even in the face of unjust treatment. Joseph's unwavering commitment to righteousness, despite the personal cost, exemplifies the biblical principle of trusting in God's justice and providence.

Moral Lessons:
1. Integrity in Adversity: Joseph's refusal to succumb to temptation, even when faced with severe consequences, underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and faithfulness to God.
2. The Cost of False Accusations: The narrative illustrates the potential harm caused by slander and deceit, both to the victim and to the accuser, who ultimately acts against God's will.
3. Divine Providence: Despite human injustice, God's presence with Joseph in prison demonstrates His sovereignty and ability to bring about His purposes, even through suffering and trials.

Related Scriptures:
· Proverbs 6:16-19 lists a lying tongue and a false witness among the things the Lord detests.
· 1 Peter 3:16 encourages believers to maintain a clear conscience so that those who slander them may be put to shame by their good behavior in Christ.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 39:14-18
That she called to the men of her house, and spoke to them, saying, See, he has brought in an Hebrew to us to mock us; he came in to me to lie with me, and I cried with a loud voice:
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility
... Job's wife, her advice inspired by the devil, [951]292. ... Joseph, a disinterested person,
[961]147; a slave yet free, [962]109; his mistress rather a slave, [963 ...
/.../abraham his trial in egypt.htm