What Is the Story of Joseph in Egypt?
What Is the Story of Joseph in Egypt? Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become Egypt's second-in-command, ultimately saving his family and demonstrating God's sovereignty over evil.
Key verse: Genesis 50:20 (KJV)
Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become Egypt's second-in-command, ultimately saving his family and demonstrating God's sovereignty over evil.
Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become Egypt's second-in-command, ultimately saving his family and demonstrating God's sovereignty over evil.
"But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive." — Genesis 50:20 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
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The Biblical Answer
Joseph's story (Genesis 37-50) is one of the Bible's greatest narratives of God's providence. Jacob's favored son, Joseph received prophetic dreams showing his family bowing to him. Jealous brothers sold him into slavery. In Egypt, he served Potiphar faithfully but was falsely accused and imprisoned. In prison, he interpreted dreams for Pharaoh's officials. Eventually summoned to interpret Pharaoh's dreams of famine, Joseph was elevated to second-in-command over all Egypt. He wisely stored grain during seven years of plenty, then distributed it during seven years of famine. When his starving brothers came to buy grain, Joseph eventually revealed himself and forgave them, declaring: 'ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good' (Genesis 50:20).
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About The Church?
What the Bible teaches about the church, its purpose, and why believers should gather together.
Key Scripture References
"But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."
"And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man."
"Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life."
Frequently asked questions
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Who Was Moses?
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Who Was King David?
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Who Was the Apostle Paul?
Paul was a former persecutor of Christians who had a dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus and became the greatest missionary and theologian of the early church.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
Related Reading
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Joseph in Egypt
Genesis 37–50 • sovereignty
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The answer above sits inside Genesis. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Genesis on day 11 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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