Genesis 42:18

and on the third day he said to them, "I fear God. So do this and you will live:

Study Bible

On the third day
The phrase "on the third day" is significant throughout the Bible, often symbolizing a period of trial followed by deliverance or revelation. In Hebrew culture, the third day is frequently associated with divine intervention and fulfillment of promises. This timing underscores the gravity of the situation and the hope of resolution. Joseph's decision to act on the third day may reflect a divine orchestration, pointing to God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His plan.

Joseph said to them
Joseph, now a powerful figure in Egypt, speaks to his brothers who do not recognize him. This moment is rich with dramatic irony and emotional tension. Joseph's authority is evident, yet his words are measured and purposeful. Historically, Joseph's rise from a Hebrew slave to a ruler in Egypt is a testament to God's providence and the fulfillment of dreams given to him in his youth. His communication with his brothers is a pivotal moment in the narrative of reconciliation and redemption.

Do this and you will live
This phrase is both a command and a promise. Joseph sets a condition for their survival, which reflects the seriousness of their situation. Theologically, it echoes the biblical theme of obedience leading to life. Joseph's directive is not merely about physical survival but also about moral and spiritual integrity. It foreshadows the broader biblical principle that life is found in following God's ways.

for I fear God
Joseph's declaration, "for I fear God," reveals his character and the foundation of his actions. The Hebrew word for "fear" (yare) encompasses reverence, awe, and respect. Joseph's fear of God is not terror but a profound respect for God's authority and righteousness. This statement is crucial because it distinguishes Joseph from the pagan Egyptians and aligns him with the covenantal faith of his forefathers. It reassures his brothers of his integrity and sets the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Joseph's leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. In this passage, he is testing his brothers who have come to Egypt to buy grain during a famine.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who have traveled to Egypt to buy grain. They do not recognize Joseph, whom they sold into slavery years earlier.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to buy grain due to a severe famine in Canaan.

4. The Third Day
A significant time marker in the Bible often associated with divine intervention or revelation. Here, it marks the day Joseph decides to reveal part of his plan to his brothers.

5. Fear of God
Joseph's declaration of his reverence for God, which influences his actions and decisions.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Fear
Joseph's fear of God is central to his character and decision-making. It serves as a model for believers to prioritize reverence for God in all aspects of life.

Integrity in Leadership
Joseph's leadership is marked by integrity and wisdom, rooted in his fear of God. This teaches us that true leadership is grounded in moral and spiritual principles.

Divine Timing and Patience
The mention of "the third day" reminds us of God's perfect timing. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing and be patient for His plans to unfold.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
Joseph's interaction with his brothers sets the stage for eventual reconciliation. It highlights the importance of forgiveness and the healing of broken relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's fear of God influence his actions towards his brothers, and what can we learn from this about the role of godly fear in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Joseph's leadership reflect the principles found in Proverbs 9:10, and how can we apply these principles in our own leadership roles?

3. Consider the significance of "the third day" in this passage and other parts of the Bible. How does this concept encourage us to trust in God's timing?

4. How does Joseph's approach to his brothers demonstrate the potential for reconciliation and forgiveness, and what steps can we take to foster these in our own relationships?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision. How can Joseph's example of integrity and fear of God guide you in future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 39:9
Joseph's fear of God is consistent with his earlier refusal to sin with Potiphar's wife, showing his integrity and reverence for God.

Proverbs 9:10
This verse highlights that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, which is evident in Joseph's wise handling of his brothers.

Exodus 20:20
Moses tells the Israelites that the fear of God will keep them from sinning, similar to how Joseph's fear of God guides his actions.