Genesis 42:20

Then bring your youngest brother to me so that your words can be verified, that you may not die." And to this they consented.

Study Bible

Then bring your youngest brother to me
This phrase is a directive from Joseph, who is now the governor of Egypt, to his brothers. The Hebrew root for "bring" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which implies a coming or going, often with a sense of purpose or mission. Joseph's command is not merely a request but a test of his brothers' honesty and integrity. Historically, this moment is pivotal as it sets the stage for the eventual reconciliation of Joseph with his family. The mention of the "youngest brother" refers to Benjamin, who is Joseph's only full brother, sharing both the same father, Jacob, and mother, Rachel. This request is laden with emotional and familial significance, as Benjamin represents the last connection to Joseph's beloved mother.

so that your words can be verified
The phrase underscores the importance of truth and integrity. The Hebrew word for "verified" is "אָמַן" (aman), which means to confirm, support, or be faithful. Joseph is testing his brothers' truthfulness, as their past actions had been deceitful when they sold him into slavery. This verification is not just for Joseph's peace of mind but also serves as a moral test for his brothers, challenging them to confront their past sins and demonstrate a change of heart. In a broader scriptural context, this reflects the biblical theme of repentance and redemption, where truth is a pathway to reconciliation and restoration.

and you may not die
This phrase carries a weighty consequence, highlighting the severity of the situation. The Hebrew word for "die" is "מוּת" (muth), which is often used in the Old Testament to denote physical death but can also imply spiritual or moral death. Joseph's statement is a stark reminder of the life-and-death stakes involved in their journey to Egypt. It reflects the harsh realities of the ancient world, where famine and political power could dictate life or death. Spiritually, it serves as a metaphor for the wages of sin, as echoed in Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Joseph's ultimatum is a call to repentance, offering his brothers a chance to choose life through truth and integrity.

And to this they consented
The brothers' consent marks a turning point in their journey. The Hebrew root for "consented" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to do, make, or agree. This agreement signifies their willingness to comply with Joseph's demands, perhaps out of fear, necessity, or a genuine desire to prove their honesty. It is a moment of submission and acknowledgment of their precarious situation. Historically, this consent is crucial as it sets in motion the events leading to the eventual reunion and reconciliation of Joseph with his family. In a spiritual sense, their consent can be seen as an act of humility and a step towards redemption, aligning with the biblical principle that true repentance involves both confession and action.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
- The governor of Egypt, who was once sold into slavery by his brothers. He is now in a position of power and is testing his brothers' integrity.

2. Joseph's Brothers
- The sons of Jacob who have come to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. They do not recognize Joseph and are unaware of his true identity.

3. Benjamin
- The youngest brother, who is not present with the others in Egypt. Joseph demands his presence as a test of their honesty.

4. Egypt
- The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to seek food during the famine.

5. Famine
- A severe shortage of food that has affected the entire region, prompting Joseph's brothers to travel to Egypt.

Teaching Points

Integrity and Honesty
Joseph's demand for Benjamin is a test of his brothers' integrity. In our lives, we should strive to be honest and trustworthy in all our dealings.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
Joseph's interactions with his brothers highlight the importance of reconciliation. We should seek to mend broken relationships and offer forgiveness.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the brothers' past actions, God uses the situation for good. We can trust that God is in control and can bring good out of difficult circumstances.

Testing and Growth
Just as Joseph tested his brothers, God may allow tests in our lives to refine our character and grow our faith.

Family and Responsibility
The brothers' responsibility to bring Benjamin reflects the importance of family and caring for one another. We should prioritize our family relationships and responsibilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's demand for Benjamin serve as a test of his brothers' integrity, and what can we learn from this about the importance of honesty in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the process of reconciliation, and how can we apply these principles to our relationships today?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty play out in the events of Genesis 42, and how can this understanding impact our perspective on difficult situations?

4. What are some ways that God might test our character and faith, and how can we respond to these tests in a way that honors Him?

5. How does the responsibility the brothers have towards Benjamin reflect our own responsibilities towards our family, and what practical steps can we take to fulfill these responsibilities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, which sets the stage for the events in Genesis 42.

Genesis 44
The continuation of Joseph's testing of his brothers, particularly focusing on Benjamin's role and the brothers' response.

Matthew 5:23-24
The teaching of reconciliation, which can be related to the eventual reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers.

Luke 6:31
The principle of treating others as you would like to be treated, which Joseph exemplifies in his dealings with his brothers.

Romans 12:17-21
The call to overcome evil with good, which Joseph demonstrates by not seeking revenge on his brothers.