◄ Genesis 39 ►
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Summary Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife The chapter serves as a testimony to Joseph's remarkable integrity and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being unjustly accused and imprisoned, Joseph's unwavering faith in God and his moral strength position him to find favor even in the direst of circumstances. It teaches us that God's providence is present even when we can't see the larger picture and that faithfulness can lead to unexpected blessings. Joseph’s Rise in Potiphar’s House (Verse 1-6) Joseph, sold into Egyptian slavery, quickly rises in favor with his master, Potiphar, because of God's presence in his life. Potiphar entrusts his entire household to Joseph. Potiphar's Wife's Advances (Verse 7-10) Despite being repeatedly propositioned by Potiphar's wife, Joseph maintains his integrity, refusing to betray his master and sin against God. False Accusation and Imprisonment (Verse 11-20) When Joseph continues to resist her advances, Potiphar's wife accuses him falsely using his left-behind cloak as evidence. This leads to Joseph's imprisonment, despite his innocence. Joseph in Prison (Verse 21-23) Even in prison, the LORD is with Joseph, granting him favor with the prison warden. Much like in Potiphar's house, Joseph is put in charge of all prisoners and all matters in the prison. This chapter explores Joseph's journey from being sold into slavery to becoming a trusted servant in Egypt, only to be falsely accused and thrown into prison. Despite adversity, Joseph's integrity, resilience, and God's favor leads him to a position of influence even within his confines. Teaching Points God's Favor and Presence The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, serving in the household of his Egyptian master (Genesis 39:2). Despite being sold into slavery, God's presence was evident in Joseph's life, leading to success and favor. Integrity in Temptation Joseph's refusal of Potiphar's wife's advances demonstrates his commitment to righteousness. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God? (Genesis 39:9). Joseph's integrity was rooted in his relationship with God. False Accusations and Suffering Despite his integrity, Joseph was falsely accused and imprisoned. When his master heard the story his wife told him... he burned with anger (Genesis 39:19). This teaches us that doing the right thing doesn't always lead to immediate reward. God's Continued Presence in Trials Even in prison, the LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden (Genesis 39:21). God's presence remained with Joseph, providing comfort and favor even in unjust circumstances. Practical Applications Trust in God's Presence Like Joseph, we can trust that God is with us in every situation, whether in success or trial. His presence is our source of strength and guidance. Maintain Integrity In moments of temptation, remember Joseph's example and choose to honor God above all else. Integrity is a testament to our faith and trust in God's plan. Persevere Through Injustice When facing false accusations or unjust treatment, hold fast to your faith. God sees your heart and will ultimately bring justice and vindication. Seek God's Favor In every circumstance, seek to live in a way that honors God, trusting that His favor will follow you, even in the most challenging situations. People 1. Joseph Joseph is the central figure in Genesis 39. He is one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel) and is sold into slavery by his brothers. In this chapter, Joseph is taken to Egypt and becomes a servant in the house of Potiphar. Despite his circumstances, Joseph remains faithful to God, and the Lord blesses him, granting him success in all he does. His integrity is tested when Potiphar's wife attempts to seduce him, but Joseph refuses her advances, leading to his imprisonment. 2. Potiphar Potiphar is an Egyptian officer of Pharaoh and the captain of the guard. He purchases Joseph as a slave and places him in charge of his household due to Joseph's evident success and the Lord's blessing upon him. Potiphar trusts Joseph completely, but later, due to his wife's false accusations, he has Joseph imprisoned. 3. Potiphar's Wife Potiphar's wife is not named in the text, but she plays a significant role in the narrative. She attempts to seduce Joseph, and when he refuses her, she falsely accuses him of trying to assault her. Her actions lead to Joseph's imprisonment, despite his innocence. 4. The LORD (Yahweh) While not a human character, the presence and influence of the LORD (Yahweh) are central to the narrative. The text emphasizes that "the LORD was with Joseph" (Genesis 39:2), granting him favor and success in Potiphar's house and later in prison. This divine presence underscores the theme of God's providence and faithfulness throughout Joseph's trials. Places 1. Egypt Egypt is the primary setting for Genesis 39. Joseph is brought to Egypt after being sold by his brothers. In Hebrew, Egypt is referred to as "Mitzrayim" (מִצְרַיִם), which is a significant location throughout the biblical narrative, often symbolizing a place of both refuge and bondage for the Israelites. 2. House of Potiphar Potiphar's house is where Joseph serves after being purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. This house becomes a place of both prosperity and trial for Joseph, as he is entrusted with great responsibility but also faces false accusations from Potiphar's wife. 3. Prison The prison is where Joseph is confined after being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. Despite the adversity, Joseph finds favor even in prison, as the Lord is with him. The Hebrew term for prison here is "bêyth ha-sôhar" (בֵּית הַסֹּהַר), which can be translated as "house of confinement." Events 1. Joseph's Arrival in Egypt Joseph is brought to Egypt and sold to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. The Hebrew root for "officer" (סָרִיס, saris) can also mean "eunuch," though in this context, it likely refers to a high-ranking official. 2. Joseph's Success in Potiphar's House The LORD is with Joseph, and he becomes successful in Potiphar's house. Potiphar notices that the LORD is with Joseph and makes him overseer of his house, entrusting him with all he owns. 3. Potiphar's Household Blessed Because of Joseph, the LORD blesses Potiphar's house, and all that he has, both in the house and in the field, prospers. 4. Joseph's Temptation by Potiphar's Wife Potiphar's wife takes notice of Joseph and repeatedly tries to seduce him, saying, "Lie with me." Joseph refuses, citing his loyalty to Potiphar and his fear of sinning against God. 5. Joseph's Refusal and Integrity Joseph consistently refuses her advances, emphasizing his commitment to God and his master. The Hebrew word for "sin" (חָטָא, chata) underscores the moral and spiritual dimensions of his refusal. 6. False Accusation by Potiphar's Wife One day, when Joseph is alone in the house, Potiphar's wife grabs his garment, and he flees, leaving it behind. She uses the garment to falsely accuse Joseph of trying to assault her. 7. Potiphar's Reaction Potiphar becomes angry when he hears his wife's accusation and has Joseph thrown into prison, where the king's prisoners are confined. 8. Joseph's Favor in Prison Even in prison, the LORD is with Joseph, showing him kindness and granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. 9. Joseph's Responsibility in Prison The warden puts Joseph in charge of all the prisoners, and whatever is done there, Joseph is the one responsible for it. The LORD makes everything Joseph does successful. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 105:17-19 Reflects on Joseph's trials and God's purpose in them. 1 Peter 2:19-20 Encourages believers to endure suffering for doing good, as it is commendable before God. Romans 8:28 Reminds us that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him. Prayer Points Pray for strength to maintain integrity and resist temptation, as Joseph did. Ask for God's presence and favor in all areas of life, trusting Him in both success and trials. Seek God's justice and peace when facing false accusations or unjust treatment. Thank God for His faithfulness and the assurance that He is always with us, no matter the circumstances. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Joseph's faithfulness to God influence his actions throughout the chapter? 2. What does Joseph's response to Potiphar's wife's advances reveal about his character? 3. How does the recurring theme of God's favor play out in Joseph's life? 4. What are the parallels between Joseph's roles in Potiphar's house and in the prison? 5. How does this chapter illustrate the concept of divine providence? 6. How would you handle being falsely accused, as Joseph was? 7. How does this chapter deepen our understanding of Joseph's character and his faith? 8. Discuss the power dynamics at play in this chapter. How do they impact Joseph's fate? 9. How does Joseph's story illustrate the concept of resilience in the face of adversity? 10. In what ways does Joseph serve as a role model for dealing with temptation? 11. How does the concept of divine favor manifest in Joseph's life, and how can we see it in our own lives? 12. How can Joseph's response to his situation be an example for us when we face difficulties in our life? 13. What does this chapter teach us about integrity and its importance in our lives? 14. How does the story of Joseph challenge our understanding of justice? 15. How do you think Joseph felt when he was thrown into prison despite his innocence? How would you feel? 16. How does Joseph's story inspire you in your personal walk of faith? 17. In what ways does Joseph's story encourage us to trust in God's timing and plans? 18. How can we apply the lessons from Joseph's life when dealing with false accusations in our lives? 19. What does Joseph's life teach us about maintaining our faith in difficult times? 20. How does this chapter challenge or confirm your understanding of God's providence and favor? Topics 1. Joseph's Prosperity in Potiphar's House Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers, is taken to Egypt and becomes a servant in the house of Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. The Lord is with Joseph, and he prospers in everything he does, gaining favor in Potiphar's eyes. Potiphar entrusts his entire household to Joseph's care, recognizing that the Lord's blessing is upon him. The Hebrew word for "prosper" (צָלַח, tsalach) indicates success and advancement, emphasizing God's active role in Joseph's achievements. 2. Joseph's Temptation by Potiphar's Wife Joseph is described as handsome and well-built, attracting the attention of Potiphar's wife. She repeatedly attempts to seduce him, but Joseph refuses, citing his loyalty to Potiphar and his fear of sinning against God. The Hebrew term for "sin" (חָטָא, chata) underscores the moral and spiritual dimensions of Joseph's resistance, highlighting his commitment to righteousness. 3. Joseph's False Accusation and Imprisonment After Joseph consistently rejects her advances, Potiphar's wife falsely accuses him of attempting to assault her. Potiphar, believing his wife's accusations, becomes enraged and has Joseph imprisoned. Despite the injustice, the narrative emphasizes Joseph's integrity and the consequences of false testimony, reflecting the Hebrew understanding of justice and truth. 4. Joseph's Favor in Prison Even in prison, the Lord remains with Joseph, granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. Joseph is put in charge of all the prisoners and the daily operations of the prison. The Hebrew word for "favor" (חֵן, chen) signifies grace and acceptance, illustrating God's continued presence and support in Joseph's life, regardless of his circumstances. Themes 1. Divine Favor and Prosperity Genesis 39 highlights the theme of divine favor, as seen in Joseph's success in Potiphar's house. The text states, "The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man" (Genesis 39:2). The Hebrew word for "successful" (מַצְלִיחַ, matsliach) implies prosperity and advancement, indicating that God's presence brings about success. 2. Integrity and Righteousness Joseph's refusal to sin with Potiphar's wife demonstrates his commitment to integrity and righteousness. He says, "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9). The Hebrew word for "wicked" (רָעָה, ra'ah) underscores the moral gravity of the act, emphasizing Joseph's dedication to God's standards. 3. Temptation and Resistance The chapter explores the theme of temptation and the strength to resist it. Joseph faces persistent advances from Potiphar's wife but remains steadfast. The narrative illustrates the importance of resisting temptation through reliance on God's strength. 4. False Accusation and Suffering Despite his integrity, Joseph is falsely accused and imprisoned. This theme highlights the reality of suffering for righteousness' sake. The Hebrew term for "accuse" (שָׁקַר, shaqar) conveys deceit, reflecting the unjust nature of the accusation against Joseph. 5. God's Presence in Adversity Even in prison, the theme of God's presence is evident. The text states, "But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him" (Genesis 39:20-21). The Hebrew word for "with" (אֵת, 'et) signifies accompaniment, emphasizing that God's presence is constant, even in difficult circumstances. 6. Divine Providence and Sovereignty The overarching theme of divine providence is seen as God orchestrates events for a greater purpose. Joseph's journey, though fraught with challenges, is part of God's sovereign plan. This theme reassures believers of God's control over all situations. 7. Faithfulness and Trust in God Joseph's unwavering faithfulness, despite trials, exemplifies trust in God's plan. His life encourages believers to remain faithful, trusting that God is working for their good, even when circumstances seem unfavorable. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions