Genesis 47:25

"You have saved our lives," they said. "We have found favor in our lord's eyes, and we will be Pharaoh's servants."

Study Bible

You have saved our lives
This phrase is a profound acknowledgment of gratitude and recognition of Joseph's pivotal role in the survival of the Egyptian people during the severe famine. The Hebrew root for "saved" is "yasha," which conveys deliverance and salvation. This word is often used in the Old Testament to describe God's saving acts. Here, Joseph is seen as a type of savior, prefiguring the ultimate salvation through Christ. Historically, Joseph's wise management of resources during the famine is a testament to God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

they said
The phrase indicates a collective response from the Egyptian people. It reflects a unified acknowledgment of Joseph's leadership and the benefits they received. In the broader scriptural context, this collective voice can be seen as a precursor to the unity found in the body of Christ, where believers collectively acknowledge the salvation offered through Jesus.

We have found favor
The Hebrew word for "favor" is "chen," which means grace or favor. This expression of finding favor is significant in the biblical narrative, as it often denotes a special relationship or blessing from God. In this context, it highlights the Egyptians' recognition of the grace extended to them through Joseph's actions. This mirrors the grace believers find in the eyes of the Lord through faith in Jesus Christ.

in our lord’s eyes
The term "lord" here refers to Joseph, who held a position of great authority in Egypt. The phrase signifies respect and submission to Joseph's leadership. In a broader theological sense, it can be seen as an allegory for the believer's relationship with Christ, acknowledging His lordship and the favor found in His sight. The "eyes" symbolize perception and understanding, indicating that Joseph's actions were seen and appreciated.

and we will be Pharaoh’s servants
This declaration of servitude reflects a voluntary submission to Pharaoh's authority, mediated through Joseph. The Hebrew word for "servants" is "ebed," which can mean servant or slave. In the historical context, this servitude was a means of survival and security during the famine. Spiritually, it can be seen as a metaphor for the believer's willing servitude to God, recognizing His sovereignty and provision. This servitude is not burdensome but a response to the grace and salvation received, much like the call to serve Christ in the New Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob who rose to power in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh. He was instrumental in managing the resources of Egypt during the seven years of famine.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who entrusted Joseph with the administration of the land during the famine.

3. Egyptians
The people of Egypt who were affected by the severe famine and came to Joseph for help.

4. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affected Egypt and the surrounding regions, leading to the Egyptians selling their land and themselves to Pharaoh in exchange for food.

5. Goshen
The region in Egypt where Joseph's family settled, which was fertile and suitable for their livestock.

Teaching Points

Gratitude in Adversity
The Egyptians expressed gratitude to Joseph for saving their lives, even in difficult circumstances. This teaches us the importance of recognizing and being thankful for God's provision through others.

Stewardship and Responsibility
Joseph's wise management of resources during the famine is a model of stewardship. We are called to manage our resources wisely and responsibly, especially in times of scarcity.

Submission to Authority
The Egyptians' willingness to become Pharaoh's servants highlights the biblical principle of submitting to authority. As Christians, we are called to respect and submit to governing authorities, as long as it does not conflict with God's commands.

God's Sovereignty
The events in Egypt demonstrate God's sovereignty in using Joseph to preserve life. We can trust that God is in control, even in challenging situations.

Long-term Consequences
The Egyptians' decision to become servants had long-term implications. Our choices today can have lasting effects, and we should seek God's wisdom in making decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's role in Egypt during the famine illustrate the concept of stewardship, and how can we apply this to our own lives?

2. In what ways can we express gratitude to God and others during times of personal or communal hardship?

3. How does the Egyptians' submission to Pharaoh relate to the New Testament teachings on submission to authority, and what are the limits of such submission?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty and provision, and how can this understanding impact our faith during difficult times?

5. Considering the long-term consequences of the Egyptians' decision, how can we seek God's guidance in making decisions that will affect our future and the future of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's rise to power and the interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which predicted the seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.

Exodus 1
This chapter describes the eventual enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt, which can be seen as a long-term consequence of the Egyptians' servitude to Pharaoh.

Romans 13
This passage discusses the role of government and authority, which can be related to Joseph's position and the Egyptians' submission to Pharaoh.