Genesis 41: Joseph’s Rise to Power

This chapter marks a major turning point in Joseph’s life. Remember, he’s been through a lot! Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused, and thrown in prison. But God had a plan all along.

What Happened?

Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, had some very strange dreams that no one could understand. He dreamt of fat cows being eaten by skinny cows, and healthy grain being swallowed by withered grain. This left Pharaoh very troubled! Then, the cupbearer finally remembered Joseph, who had interpreted his dream in prison.

Joseph was brought before Pharaoh and, through God’s wisdom, interpreted the dreams. He explained that they foretold seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine in Egypt. Joseph then advised Pharaoh to appoint a wise leader to store grain during the good years to prepare for the hard times ahead.

Impressed by Joseph’s wisdom and insight, Pharaoh put him in charge of all of Egypt! He gave Joseph authority, fine clothes, and even a new Egyptian name. Joseph, once a prisoner, was now second in command to Pharaoh himself.

Why is this Important?

This chapter shows us how God can use even the most difficult situations for good. Joseph’s suffering wasn’t for nothing. God was preparing him for a position of great influence, where he could not only save Egypt but also his own family.

It also teaches us about:

• God’s Sovereignty: Even though bad things happened to Joseph, God was in control the whole time, working behind the scenes to fulfil His purposes.
• Forgiveness: Despite the injustice Joseph faced, he didn’t become bitter or vengeful. He forgave his brothers and ultimately saved them from starvation.
• Faithfulness: Joseph remained faithful to God even in prison. He used his gifts to serve others, and God honoured that.

Study Questions

1. Why do you think Pharaoh had such disturbing dreams?
2. How did Joseph know what the dreams meant?
3. What qualities did Joseph demonstrate that made him a good leader?
4. How does this chapter show that God has a plan, even when things seem to be going wrong?
5. What can we learn from Joseph’s response to his brothers’ betrayal?
6. How can we apply the lessons from this chapter to our own lives, especially when facing challenges?

Challenge

Think about a difficult situation you’re facing or have faced in the past. How might God be using this experience to prepare you for something greater? How can you remain faithful to Him even in the midst of hardship?

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Genesis 41 marks a pivotal turning point in Joseph’s life, and indeed, in the unfolding narrative of God’s covenant people. After years of hardship and injustice, Joseph is suddenly thrust from prison to palace, from obscurity to prominence. Both Spurgeon and Matthew Henry offer insightful commentary on this chapter, highlighting the sovereignty of God and the importance of preparedness.  

God’s Providence in Control

Matthew Henry eloquently captures the overarching theme of divine providence in this chapter: “The events of this chapter are very remarkable, and show us that the Lord reigns, that the king’s heart is in his hand, and that he turns it which way soever he pleases, as the rivers of water.” Even Pharaoh’s troubling dreams, seemingly random and distressing, are orchestrated by God to bring about His purposes.

Spurgeon echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that Joseph’s rise to power was no mere stroke of luck: “Joseph’s elevation was of the Lord. It is God that raiseth up one and putteth down another. He is the supreme ruler among the kingdoms of men…” This truth provides comfort and encouragement to all believers who may find themselves in seemingly hopeless situations.  

The Importance of Preparation

Both commentators also stress the importance of Joseph’s character and preparedness in this moment of opportunity. Henry observes: “Joseph had improved his time in the prison, and had not buried his talent…” His faithfulness in small things, even in the midst of adversity, had equipped him for the great responsibility that now lay before him.

Spurgeon further emphasises this point: “Joseph was already prepared for his office by previous trial…He had learned to rule in a prison, and therefore he was fit to rule in a palace.” Our trials, though painful, can serve as valuable training grounds for future service.

The Significance of Joseph’s Interpretation

The interpretation of Pharaoh’s dreams is central to this chapter, and both commentators offer insightful reflections on its meaning. Henry notes: “The interpretation of dreams was a thing Joseph had pretended to no skill in; but the Spirit of God gave him now the understanding of these dreams.” This highlights the supernatural wisdom granted to Joseph, confirming his divine calling.

Spurgeon focuses on the spiritual significance of the dreams, seeing them as a foreshadowing of God’s plan of redemption: “The seven years of plenty and the seven years of famine were a sort of type of the present dispensation and that which is to come… “ He draws a parallel between the physical provision offered by Joseph and the spiritual sustenance offered by Christ.

Concluding Thoughts

Genesis 41 is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the importance of faithful stewardship. As Spurgeon eloquently states: “Let us learn from this chapter to see God in everything, and to trust him at all times. Let us also learn to be faithful in the discharge of our duties, however humble they may be, for we know not what God may have in store for us.”  

By studying the commentary of these great theologians, we gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of this pivotal chapter in the life of Joseph and the history of God’s people.