Genesis 37:13

Israel said to him, "Are not your brothers pasturing the flocks at Shechem? Get ready; I am sending you to them." "I am ready," Joseph replied.

Study Bible

Israel said to him
The name "Israel" here refers to Jacob, who was renamed Israel after wrestling with God (Genesis 32:28). This name signifies his role as the patriarch of the Israelite nation. The use of "Israel" instead of "Jacob" highlights the covenantal and national significance of the narrative. It reminds us of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the unfolding of His divine plan through their lineage.

Are not your brothers grazing the flocks at Shechem?
The mention of "Shechem" is significant in the biblical narrative. Shechem was a city of great historical and spiritual importance, first mentioned in Genesis 12:6-7 when God promised the land to Abram's descendants. It was also the site of Jacob's earlier troubles (Genesis 34). The reference to Shechem here evokes a sense of continuity and the unfolding of God's promises despite human failings. The act of "grazing the flocks" symbolizes the pastoral lifestyle of the patriarchs and their dependence on God's provision.

Get ready; I am sending you to them
This phrase indicates a mission or task being given to Joseph by his father. The Hebrew root for "sending" (שָׁלַח, shalach) often implies a commissioning or dispatching with authority. It foreshadows Joseph's future role as a leader and savior of his family, as he is sent ahead to prepare the way, much like he will later be sent to Egypt to preserve life during the famine.

I am ready
Joseph's response, "I am ready," reflects his obedience and willingness to serve his father. This readiness is a hallmark of Joseph's character throughout his life, demonstrating his faithfulness and trust in God's plan. His willingness to go, despite the potential danger and the strained relationship with his brothers, highlights his integrity and foreshadows his future role as a leader who acts according to God's will.

Joseph replied
The mention of "Joseph" here is crucial, as it sets the stage for the unfolding of his story, which is central to the latter part of Genesis. Joseph's life is a testament to God's providence and sovereignty, as he navigates betrayal, slavery, and eventual rise to power in Egypt. His journey begins with this simple act of obedience, reminding us that God often uses humble beginnings to accomplish His grand purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel (Jacob)
The patriarch of the family, also known as Jacob, who is the father of Joseph and his brothers. He plays a significant role in the unfolding of God's covenant promises.

2. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, known for his dreams and future leadership in Egypt. His journey begins with obedience to his father’s request.

3. Joseph's Brothers
They are tending the flocks at Shechem. Their relationship with Joseph is strained due to jealousy and resentment.

4. Shechem
A significant location in biblical history, previously associated with both Abraham and Jacob. It is a place of past family events and covenants.

5. The Flocks
Represent the family's wealth and livelihood, which the brothers are responsible for managing.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Authority
Joseph's immediate response, "I am ready," exemplifies a heart of obedience and readiness to serve, which is a model for believers in responding to God's call and authority figures in our lives.

Family Dynamics and God's Sovereignty
Despite the dysfunction and jealousy within Jacob's family, God's sovereign plan is at work. This encourages believers to trust in God's overarching plan even amidst family challenges.

Significance of Place in God's Plan
Shechem is a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of places in biblical history. Believers can reflect on how God uses specific locations in their own lives for His purposes.

Faithfulness in Small Tasks
Joseph's willingness to undertake a seemingly mundane task of checking on his brothers is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness in small things, which God often uses to prepare us for greater responsibilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his father's request demonstrate his character, and what can we learn from it about obedience?

2. In what ways does the location of Shechem play a role in the broader account of Genesis, and how does this inform our understanding of God's promises?

3. How can the account of Joseph and his brothers help us navigate complex family relationships while trusting in God's sovereignty?

4. What are some "small tasks" in your life that God might be using to prepare you for future responsibilities, and how can you approach them with faithfulness?

5. How does the theme of obedience in Genesis 37:13 connect with other biblical examples of obedience, such as David or Abraham, and what lessons can we draw for our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:4-11
Provides context for the brothers' jealousy and animosity towards Joseph, setting the stage for the events that follow.

Genesis 12:6-7
Shechem is first mentioned as a place where God appeared to Abraham, establishing its importance in the account of God's promises.

1 Samuel 17:17-18
Similar to Joseph, David is sent by his father to check on his brothers, highlighting themes of obedience and family duty.

Hebrews 11:8
Reflects on the faith and obedience of the patriarchs, which can be seen in Joseph's willingness to go to Shechem.