Genesis 42:28

"My silver has been returned!" he said to his brothers. "It is here in my sack." Their hearts sank, and trembling, they turned to one another and said, "What is this that God has done to us?"

Study Bible

“My silver has been returned!”
This phrase highlights the unexpected discovery of the silver in the sack, which was originally intended as payment for the grain. In the context of ancient Near Eastern trade practices, such an occurrence would be alarming, as it could imply accusations of theft or dishonesty. The return of the silver can be seen as a test orchestrated by Joseph, who is in a position of power in Egypt, to gauge his brothers' integrity and repentance. This act foreshadows the theme of divine providence and the unfolding of God's plan, as Joseph's earlier dreams (Genesis 37) begin to manifest.

he said to his brothers.
The brothers are central figures in the narrative, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Their interactions and experiences in Egypt are pivotal in the development of the Israelite identity. This moment of realization and fear among the brothers is a turning point, as it forces them to confront their past actions against Joseph. The familial dynamics and tensions are crucial for understanding the broader narrative of reconciliation and redemption.

“It is here in my sack.”
The sack symbolizes the burden of guilt and the hidden truths that the brothers carry. The physical presence of the silver in the sack serves as a metaphor for the unresolved issues and the need for confession and reconciliation. This moment also reflects the theme of divine intervention, as God uses ordinary circumstances to bring about His purposes.

Their hearts sank, and trembling, they turned to one another
The emotional response of the brothers indicates their fear and anxiety, which are rooted in their guilty consciences. This reaction is significant in the biblical narrative, as it marks the beginning of their transformation and acknowledgment of wrongdoing. The trembling and turning to one another suggest a collective realization and the need for mutual support in facing the consequences of their past actions.

and said, “What is this that God has done to us?”
This question reflects the brothers' recognition of divine involvement in their circumstances. It indicates a shift from seeing events as mere coincidences to understanding them as part of God's sovereign plan. The brothers' acknowledgment of God's hand in their situation is a step towards repentance and reconciliation. This moment connects to the broader biblical theme of God's providence and justice, as seen in other scriptures where God uses trials to bring about growth and redemption (e.g., Romans 8:28).

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power as the second-in-command under Pharaoh. It is a place of refuge during the famine but also a place of testing for Joseph's brothers.

3. The Return of the Money
The event where the brothers discover their money returned in their sacks, causing fear and confusion. This act is part of Joseph's test to see if his brothers have changed.

4. God's Providence
The brothers attribute the mysterious return of their money to God's actions, indicating their awareness of divine involvement in their circumstances.

5. Famine
The severe famine affecting the region, which forces Jacob's family to seek sustenance in Egypt, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's plan for Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Recognize that God is in control, even in confusing or fearful situations. The brothers' fear upon finding the money reflects a lack of understanding of God's sovereign plan.

Confronting Past Sins
The brothers' reaction shows their guilty conscience. Reflect on how unresolved sin can affect our perception of current events and our relationship with God.

Providence and Provision
Trust in God's provision, even when it comes in unexpected ways. The returned money was a sign of God's provision, though initially perceived as a threat.

Fear vs. Faith
The brothers' fear contrasts with the faith required to trust in God's plan. Consider how faith can transform our response to life's uncertainties.

Divine Purpose in Adversity
Understand that God can use adversity to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the discovery of the money in their sacks reveal the brothers' state of mind and spiritual condition?

2. In what ways can unresolved guilt from past actions affect our current relationship with God and others?

3. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the principle of Romans 8:28 in your own life?

4. What are some practical ways to cultivate faith over fear when facing uncertain or challenging situations?

5. How can we discern God's providence and provision in our lives, especially when it comes in unexpected forms?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, which sets the background for the events in Genesis 42.

Genesis 45
Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, showing God's providential plan in bringing good out of their evil actions.

Romans 8:28
The principle that God works all things together for good for those who love Him, reflecting the overarching theme of God's sovereignty in Joseph's account.

Proverbs 21:1
The idea that God directs the hearts of rulers, as seen in Joseph's rise to power in Egypt.

Psalm 105:16-22
A recounting of Joseph's account, emphasizing God's faithfulness and providence.