Genesis 50:21

Therefore do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your little ones." So Joseph reassured his brothers and spoke kindly to them.

Study Bible

So now, do not be afraid
This phrase is a powerful reassurance from Joseph to his brothers. The Hebrew word for "afraid" is יָרֵא (yare), which often conveys a sense of fear or dread. In the context of Genesis, Joseph's brothers had every reason to fear retribution for their past actions against him. However, Joseph's command not to fear reflects a deep understanding of God's sovereignty and forgiveness. It echoes the biblical theme that God is in control, and His plans are for good, not harm (Jeremiah 29:11). Joseph's ability to forgive and reassure his brothers is a testament to his faith and trust in God's providence.

I will provide for you and your little ones
The promise of provision is central to Joseph's message. The Hebrew verb for "provide" is כָּלַכ (kalah), which means to sustain or nourish. Joseph's commitment to care for his brothers and their families is not just a promise of physical sustenance but also a spiritual and emotional support. This reflects the biblical principle of God's provision for His people, as seen throughout Scripture, where God provides manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16) and Jesus feeds the multitudes (Matthew 14:13-21). Joseph's assurance is a reflection of God's character as a provider and protector.

And he reassured them
The act of reassurance is significant in this context. The Hebrew word נָחַם (nacham) can mean to comfort or console. Joseph's reassurance is not merely about alleviating fear but also about restoring relationships and healing past wounds. This act of comfort is a reflection of God's own nature as a comforter, as seen in passages like Isaiah 40:1, "Comfort, comfort My people, says your God." Joseph's ability to reassure his brothers demonstrates the transformative power of forgiveness and grace.

and spoke kindly to them
The phrase "spoke kindly" is translated from the Hebrew לֵב (lev), which means heart. To speak kindly is to speak to the heart, indicating a deep, sincere communication. Joseph's kind words are a reflection of his genuine forgiveness and love for his brothers. This mirrors the biblical call to love one another and to speak words that build up and encourage (Ephesians 4:29). Joseph's kindness is a model of Christ-like love, showing that true forgiveness involves not just words but a heartfelt change in attitude and relationship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The central figure in this passage, Joseph is the son of Jacob who rose to power in Egypt. He is speaking to his brothers, who had previously sold him into slavery.

2. Joseph's Brothers
They are the recipients of Joseph's reassurance. They had feared retribution from Joseph after the death of their father, Jacob.

3. Egypt
The setting of this event, where Joseph had become a powerful leader under Pharaoh.

4. Jacob (Israel)
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Jacob's recent death is the context for the brothers' fear and Joseph's reassurance.

5. Provision and Reassurance
The event of Joseph promising to provide for his brothers and their families, demonstrating forgiveness and grace.

Teaching Points

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph's actions demonstrate the power of forgiveness and the importance of reconciliation. Despite the wrongs done to him, he chooses to forgive and care for his brothers.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Joseph's life is a testament to trusting God's plan, even when circumstances seem dire. His faith in God's purpose allowed him to see beyond his suffering.

Kindness in Action
Joseph not only forgives but also actively provides for his brothers, showing that true forgiveness is accompanied by acts of kindness and support.

Overcoming Fear with Assurance
Joseph's reassurance to his brothers highlights the importance of addressing fears with compassion and assurance, reflecting God's love and care.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers' fear reflect the character of God, and how can we apply this in our relationships today?

2. In what ways does Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, especially during difficult times?

3. How can we practice forgiveness and reconciliation in our own lives, following Joseph's example?

4. What are some practical ways we can provide for and reassure those who are afraid or in need, as Joseph did for his brothers?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament align with Joseph's actions in Genesis 50:21, and how can we live out these teachings in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 45:5-8
Earlier, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and explains that God sent him to Egypt to preserve life, showing his understanding of God's sovereignty.

Romans 12:19-21
Paul instructs believers not to take revenge but to leave room for God's wrath, echoing Joseph's attitude of forgiveness and kindness.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus teaches to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, which Joseph exemplifies in his treatment of his brothers.