What Is the Story of Joseph in Egypt — In Biblical Context
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)
The Biblical Context
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).
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Genesis 50:20, sits inside Genesis 50. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"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."
Supporting Passages
"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."
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