Genesis 42:10

"Not so, my lord," they replied. "Your servants have come to buy food.

Study Bible

Not so, my lord
This phrase is a humble and respectful address to Joseph, whom the brothers do not recognize as their sibling. The Hebrew word for "lord" here is "adon," which signifies a person of authority or master. This reflects the brothers' acknowledgment of Joseph's high status in Egypt, even though they are unaware of his true identity. Historically, addressing someone as "lord" was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures to show deference and submission, especially in a foreign land where they were vulnerable.

they replied
The act of replying indicates a response to an accusation or a statement. In the context of Genesis 42, Joseph had accused his brothers of being spies. Their reply is a defense of their intentions. The Hebrew root "anah" for "replied" can also mean to answer or respond, often used in legal or formal settings. This highlights the seriousness of the situation and the brothers' need to clear their names.

Your servants
By referring to themselves as "servants," the brothers are positioning themselves in a subservient role. The Hebrew word "ebed" for "servant" can also mean slave or bondservant, indicating a position of humility and submission. This is significant because it contrasts with their earlier treatment of Joseph, whom they sold into slavery. The use of "servants" here is both a literal and symbolic acknowledgment of their lower status in Egypt and perhaps an unconscious nod to their past actions.

have come
This phrase indicates a purposeful journey. The Hebrew verb "bo" means to come or to go, often implying intention and direction. The brothers' journey to Egypt was driven by necessity due to the famine in Canaan. This journey is not just a physical movement but also a pivotal moment in the narrative where past sins and future redemption begin to intersect.

to buy food
The act of buying food underscores the dire circumstances that have brought the brothers to Egypt. The Hebrew word "shabar" for "buy" can also mean to procure or to break, suggesting the breaking of bread or sustenance. This highlights the severity of the famine and the desperation that has driven them to seek help from a foreign power. In a broader scriptural context, this moment sets the stage for reconciliation and the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham's descendants, as Joseph's position in Egypt will ultimately lead to the preservation of the Israelite lineage.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who traveled to Egypt to buy grain during a severe famine. They are unaware that the Egyptian official they are speaking to is their brother Joseph, whom they sold into slavery years earlier.

2. Joseph
The governor of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh. He is in charge of distributing grain during the famine. Joseph recognizes his brothers, but they do not recognize him.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to buy food due to the widespread famine.

4. Famine
A severe shortage of food affecting the entire region, prompting Jacob to send his sons to Egypt to purchase grain.

5. Jacob (Israel)
The father of Joseph and his brothers, who remains in Canaan and sends his sons to Egypt to buy food.

Teaching Points

Providence and Sovereignty of God
God's hand is evident in Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership. This reminds us that God can use difficult circumstances for His purposes and our good.

Repentance and Reconciliation
Joseph's brothers are confronted with their past actions. This passage encourages us to seek reconciliation and forgiveness in our relationships.

Trust in God's Timing
Joseph's account teaches us to trust in God's timing, even when we do not understand our current circumstances.

Integrity and Faithfulness
Joseph's integrity and faithfulness to God, even in adversity, serve as a model for us to remain steadfast in our faith.

God's Provision
The famine and Joseph's role in providing food illustrate God's provision for His people, encouraging us to rely on Him in times of need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers reflect his character and faith in God?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence at work in the account of Joseph and his brothers?

3. How can Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives?

4. What steps can we take to seek reconciliation and forgiveness in our own relationships, as seen in the interactions between Joseph and his brothers?

5. How does the account of Joseph illustrate the truth of Romans 8:28, and how can we apply this principle to our own lives?

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 41
Joseph's rise to power in Egypt after interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, which leads to his position of authority during the famine.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen's speech recounts Joseph's account, highlighting God's providence and Joseph's rise to power despite his brothers' betrayal.

Romans 8:28
The principle that God works all things for good for those who love Him, as seen in Joseph's life.