Exploring the Scripture

Today’s text is the climax of the story of Joseph who was sold into slavery by his brothers. Remind the congregation of the background of today’s text. Hatred led Joseph’s brothers to kidnap him and sell him as a slave. He was taken to Egypt, and there he found favor with Pharaoh. Pharaoh appointed Joseph to a position of power, second only to Pharaoh himself.

A widespread famine had covered the land; to survive, Joseph’s father told the brothers to travel to Egypt to buy food. Joseph was responsible for giving out food which was in the holdings of Pharaoh. When the brothers arrived Joseph recognized them, but they didn’t recognize him. Before disclosing his identity and expressing his forgiveness, Joseph manipulated his brothers. He set the brothers up, making it appear they had stolen money and Joseph’s silver cup. He also included the possibility of Benjamin becoming a slave in Egypt. Joseph then discloses his identity and extends grace and forgiveness to his brothers.

Forgiveness is not carried out through manipulation or causing the other to fear retribution or to grovel. Those tactics will always be a barrier to sincere forgiveness which may create distrust in the relationship. God does not manipulate or expect us to grovel to receive forgiveness. Remind the congregation of the Enduring Principle Grace and Generosity and how God generously shares forgiveness and grace with all.

When Joseph forgave his brothers, it was not predicated on their request to be forgiven. The speaker might explore the idea of forgiveness occurring in the heart of the one who was hurt even if the one who created the hurt does not ask for forgiveness. Forgiveness can bring as much healing to one as the other. Waiting for the other to ask for forgiveness will prolong one’s pain. The congregation should be challenged to consider whether the act of forgiveness can only follow a request for forgiveness.

While Jesus hung on the cross those who were responsible for his execution were not asking for forgiveness. However, Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

This story confirms that even the most difficult of life’s circumstances can be transformed through the Holy Spirit. The final shaping of the writing of Genesis took place during the Babylonian exile. Those in exile were discouraged and had lost hope. There were parallels between their story and the story of Joseph and his family. Hatred sent Joseph into exile. Later the possibility of starvation placed his family in exile.

In these circumstances, God was with them, and new life erupted amid tragedy and difficulty. It is important for the hearers to understand God did not cause the brothers to sin nor did God impose the famine to bring about blessings. Rather, amid pain, we must recognize the seed of God’s hope. New life and freedom can come forth. Challenge the congregants to consider what groups in their community may feel they are in exile, needing to hear words of hope and acceptance.

Faith Unfiltered Podcast

Hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith consider how this week's scripture connects to our lives today.

LISTEN

Central Ideas

1. Forgiveness is unconditional.
2. God does not cause sinful acts to bring about needed results, but through God’s love and grace new hope can spring forth in all circumstances.
3. We are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:16–20).

Questions to Consider

1. Why is it difficult to forgive another?
2. How can forgiveness occur if the offender does not ask to be forgiven?
3. How can your congregation experience corporate moments of reconciliation?
4. What are some ways people in your community may be living in exile?