Genesis 50:20

As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this--to preserve the lives of many people.

Study Bible

As for you
This phrase directly addresses Joseph's brothers, who had previously plotted against him. In Hebrew, the word "you" (אַתֶּם, atem) is plural, emphasizing the collective responsibility of the brothers. This sets the stage for a contrast between human intentions and divine purposes, highlighting the personal nature of Joseph's address and the relational dynamics within the family.

what you intended against me for evil
The Hebrew word for "intended" (חָשַׁב, chashav) implies a deliberate and calculated plan. The brothers' actions were not accidental but were meant to harm Joseph. The term "evil" (רָעָה, ra'ah) denotes moral wickedness and harm. This phrase acknowledges the reality of human sin and malice, yet it also sets up the profound truth of God's sovereignty over human actions.

God intended for good
In contrast to the brothers' intentions, God's purpose (חָשַׁב, chashav) is revealed as inherently good (טוֹב, tov). This reflects the biblical theme of God's redemptive power, where He can transform human evil into divine good. Theologically, this underscores the doctrine of providence, where God's will ultimately prevails, turning even the darkest circumstances into opportunities for His glory and the benefit of His people.

in order to accomplish
The phrase "in order to accomplish" (לַעֲשׂוֹת, la'asot) indicates purpose and fulfillment. It suggests that God's plans are intentional and goal-oriented. This aligns with the biblical narrative that God is actively working in history to bring about His purposes, often in ways that are beyond human understanding.

a day like this
This phrase points to the specific moment in time when Joseph's rise to power in Egypt enabled him to save many lives. It highlights the culmination of God's plan, which was set in motion long before the brothers' betrayal. Historically, this refers to the period of famine in Egypt, which is corroborated by archaeological evidence of similar events in the ancient Near East.

to preserve the lives of many people
The Hebrew word for "preserve" (חָיָה, chayah) means to give life or sustain. This reflects God's ultimate purpose in Joseph's story: the preservation of life. The "many people" (עַם רָב, am rav) includes not only Joseph's family but also the Egyptians and surrounding nations. This phrase emphasizes God's concern for all humanity and His ability to use individuals to fulfill His broader redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The central figure in this passage, Joseph is speaking to his brothers. He was sold into slavery by them but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt.

2. Joseph's Brothers
They initially intended harm against Joseph by selling him into slavery, which set the stage for the events that followed.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph rose to power and where the events of this passage take place. It became a place of refuge during the famine.

4. Famine
A severe famine affected the region, leading Joseph's family to seek help in Egypt, which Joseph had prepared for under God's guidance.

5. God's Sovereignty
The overarching theme of this event is God's ability to use human actions, even those intended for evil, to fulfill His divine purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Trust that God can use even the most difficult situations for His purposes and our good.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph's response to his brothers teaches us the importance of forgiveness and seeking reconciliation, even when wronged.

Perspective on Trials
View challenges as opportunities for God to work in unexpected ways, shaping our character and faith.

Purpose in Pain
Understand that God can bring about His purposes through our suffering, often using it to bless others.

Faith in God's Plan
Maintain faith that God's plan is greater than our understanding, and He is always at work behind the scenes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers reflect his understanding of God's sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in our own lives, even in situations that seem intended for harm?

3. How can Joseph's account encourage us to forgive those who have wronged us?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain faith in God's plan during difficult times?

5. How does the theme of God using evil for good in Genesis 50:20 connect with the account of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 8:28
This verse echoes the theme of God working all things for good for those who love Him, similar to how Joseph's situation was turned for good.

Jeremiah 29:11
God's plans for His people are for their welfare and not for evil, aligning with the idea that God intended Joseph's situation for good.

Acts 2:23-24
The crucifixion of Jesus, intended for evil by His persecutors, was used by God for the ultimate good of salvation, paralleling Joseph's account.