Genesis 43:1-34 - Homiletics

The second visit of Joseph's brethren to Egypt.

I. The. SCENE IN JACOB 'S HOUSE AT HEBRON ( Genesis 43:1-15 ).

1. The second journey proposed . " Go again, buy us a little food." It was necessitated by the long continuance of the famine, and the complete consumption of the corn they had brought from Egypt on the previous occasion.

2. The second journey agreed on .

3. The second journey prepared for ( Genesis 43:11-13 ). Since it was inevitable that Benjamin must go, Jacob recommended them along with him to take

4. The second journey began ( Genesis 43:14 , Genesis 43:15 ). Listening to their father's prayer,—"God Almighty give you mercy before the man,"—witnessing their father's sorrowful resignation,—"If I be bereaved I am bereaved,"—and observing faithfully their father's instructions, carrying a present of "the song of the land" and double money in their hands, the men rose up and went down to Egypt.

5. The second journey completed ( Genesis 43:15 ). In the providence of God they reached the land of Egypt and stood before Joseph. It is a special mercy to travelers when, escaping all the perils of the way, they arrive at their desired destinations in peace.

II. THE SCENE IN JOSEPH 'S HOUSE IN EGYPT ( Genesis 43:16-34 ).

1. The reception of the brethren ( Genesis 43:16 , Genesis 43:17 ). Scarcely had the brethren arrived at the public mart than they were observed by Joseph. Directing his eyes eagerly in search of Benjamin, he is gratified by noticing that he has not been left behind. Preserving as before his incognito, he gives instructions to his steward to convey them to his palace, and prepare a dinner for him and them at the hour of noon.

2. The apprehensions of the brethren ( Genesis 43:18-24 ).

3. The homage of the brethren ( Genesis 43:25-31 ).

4. The entertainment of the brethren .