MARCH 13, 2025 – SURETY

READ: Gen. 43:1-34: …Then Judah said to Israel his father, Send the lad with me, and we will arise and go, that we may live and not die, both we and you and also our little ones. I myself will be surety for him; from my hand you shall require him. If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame forever… 

Father Jacob does not want to lose Benjamin and thus refuses to let him travel (42:36-38). However, the famine is so severe that they will all die if no food is obtained. Judah steps forward as a surety, offering himself to convince Jacob to allow Benjamin to go.

This is an unexpected turn for a son who had previously acted so wickedly—he now sacrifices himself for his youngest brother!

There is also a change in Jacob. He acknowledges his dependence on the LORD and entrusts the future to Him:  May God Almighty give you mercy in the presence of the man, so that he will send back your other brother and Benjamin. As for me, if I am bereaved of my children, I am bereaved.

Jacob, who was so inclined to follow his own ways, now submits to the LORD and His protection, setting a good example for his sons.

The brothers, now ten in number, travel to Egypt, bringing twice the money they had before. At first, they do not meet Joseph but are reassured by a servant when they express concern about the returned money. Likely following Joseph’s instructions, the servant says: Peace be with you; do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks.
Simeon is then brought out to them.

Joseph hosts a sumptuous meal for the brothers, who are astonished to be seated in exact order of their ages. This must have made them wonder again how much was known about them. Furthermore, Benjamin’s portion is five times larger than the others, testing whether their envy had abated.

Why did Joseph accuse his brothers?

Sing: Ps. 62:3