Reading: Genesis 43:1-14 and 24-31.

Jacob sends his sons to Egypt, but does not want Benjamin to go. Judah convinces Jacob that Benjamin must accompany the brothers. Judah promises to be surety for Benjamin and bear the blame forever if something goes wrong (vs 9). How Judah has changed. Previously he too showed hatred to Joseph and agreed to sell him to Egypt and deceive their father.  Now he shows love and responsibility.

 

Genesis 38:1 reveals that Judah left his family, falls into serious sin by marrying a heathen woman and commits adultery with his daughter-in-law. He was away for a long time. Eventually God works in Judah’s heart and causes him to return and re-join the church. In chapter 43 a new Judah takes the lead regarding Benjamin’s safety.

 

Jacob also changes (vs 13, 14). He trusts God regarding Benjamin’s safety and allows him to go to Egypt. He hopes God will protect the brothers and that the Egyptian ruler will be merciful.

 

On the first trip Joseph commanded that the brothers’ money be put into their sacks of food to test their honesty.  On their arrival in Egypt the second time the brothers show honesty by returning the money to the steward. They also show their honesty by presenting Benjamin to Joseph.

 

Step by step God is working repentance and rebuilding unity in the family. By properly dealing with the sin through repentance and forgiveness God ensures that the family can function again as His church. God is faithful and worthy of all praise.

 

Key text: Genesis 43:29 “Then he lifted his eyes and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, ‘Is this your younger brother of whom you spoke to me?”’ And he said, ‘God be gracious to you, my son.’ ”

 

Question: Is there disunity in “your” congregation on some matters?  If so how do you think they should be handled?