Genesis 43-45

Chapter 43
Main idea
Jacob expects nothing but death as the brothers go to Egypt again, this time with Benjamin.  They operate by strict justice and payment, not realizing the rich mercy they are to receive.  Joseph knows them, to their astonishment.  He is overcome with affection for Benjamin and favors him as his father did, as a test for his brothers.

How this is about Jesus
Judah takes responsibility for Benjamin's safety, instead of offering to harm his sons, as Reuben had.  He begins to mediate to his own harm, as Jesus did for us.

Sins this reveals
Seeing God as a harsh taskmaster, instead of a kind Lord who arranges our lives to show us how we need to change.
Trying to deal with God according to strict merit, instead of receiving kindness from Him.


Chapter 44
Main idea
Joseph puts the final test to the brothers, contriving for Benjamin to be separated from Jacob.  We see now that the real test is whether the brothers care about what they do to Jacob, more than what they do to himself or Benjamin.  Judah intercedes with a 16 verse long speech pleading not to separate father and son for the harm it would do Jacob.

How this is about Jesus
Jesus intercedes for us that we not be separated from God, as Judah intercedes for Benjamin that he not be separated from his father.

Sins this reveals
Apathy in not working hard to keep people in fellowship with God and each other.


Chapter 45
Main idea
Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and sends them home to bring Jacob and their whole family to Egypt where they will have plenty food.

How this is about Jesus
Joseph preaches a proto Gospel to his brothers.  I have provided your salvation, if you will come to me.

Sins this reveals
We would rather cling to justifying our past than get the food we need in Christ.
Once our basic needs are met, we often fall to arguing over lesser things.
Blaming others for past problems (vs 24).