Character Study Of Joseph Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF JOSEPH – SOLD INTO SLAVERY, BECAME RULER IN EGYPT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:

Genesis 37:5-7 – “And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more. And he said unto them, Hear, I pray you, this dream which I have dreamed: For, behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and, lo, my sheaf arose, and also stood upright; and, behold, your sheaves stood round about, and made obeisance to my sheaf.”

Supporting Texts:

Genesis 39:2-3, Genesis 41:38-41, Psalm 105:17-22, Romans 8:28, Acts 7:9-10

INTRODUCTION

Joseph is one of the most remarkable figures in the Bible. His life is a powerful testimony of divine providence, perseverance, and faithfulness. From being the beloved son of Jacob, he became a slave in Egypt, was falsely accused and imprisoned, yet rose to become the second-in-command of the most powerful nation of his time.

His story highlights how God can turn adverse circumstances into a testimony of victory. Despite his trials, Joseph remained steadfast, maintaining his integrity and faith in God. His journey from the pit to the palace teaches us about endurance, forgiveness, and God’s perfect plan.

Joseph’s life was not just about personal success but also about fulfilling God’s divine purpose. He played a crucial role in preserving his family, the Israelites, during the great famine. Through him, we see that God's plans will always prevail, no matter the opposition.

1. JOSEPH'S FAVOURED POSITION IN HIS FAMILY

Joseph was Jacob’s favourite son, which led to jealousy among his brothers. His father gave him a coat of many colours, signifying his special status.

a) Jacob’s deep love for Joseph – Jacob loved Joseph more than his other sons because he was the son of his old age. (Genesis 37:3)

b) The coat of many colours – This special robe symbolised honour and distinction. (Genesis 37:3)

c) His prophetic dreams – Joseph’s dreams foretold his future greatness, but they also made his brothers hate him. (Genesis 37:5-11)

d) His brothers’ jealousy and hatred – The favouritism shown to Joseph caused resentment among his siblings. (Genesis 37:4)

e) Biblical Example: Cain’s jealousy of Abel also led to hatred and violence. (Genesis 4:8)

2. JOSEPH SOLD INTO SLAVERY

Despite being chosen by God, Joseph faced severe trials, beginning with betrayal by his brothers.

a) His brothers conspired against him – They plotted to kill him but later decided to sell him. (Genesis 37:18-20)

b) He was thrown into a pit – This act symbolised the beginning of his suffering. (Genesis 37:24)

c) He was sold to the Ishmaelites – His own flesh and blood sold him into slavery for twenty pieces of silver. (Genesis 37:28)

d) Jacob was deceived about Joseph’s fate – His brothers dipped his coat in blood and told their father he had been killed by a wild beast. (Genesis 37:31-34)

e) Biblical Example: Jesus was also betrayed and sold for thirty pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:15)

3. JOSEPH IN POTIPHAR’S HOUSE

Even as a slave, Joseph prospered because God was with him.

a) God’s favour was upon him – Joseph found favour in Potiphar’s house and was made overseer. (Genesis 39:2-4)

b) He was faithful in little things – His integrity and diligence brought promotion. (Luke 16:10)

c) He resisted temptation – He refused to sin with Potiphar’s wife. (Genesis 39:7-9)

d) He was falsely accused and imprisoned – Potiphar’s wife lied about him, and he was thrown into prison. (Genesis 39:20)

e) Biblical Example: Daniel also remained faithful despite being in captivity. (Daniel 6:4-5)

4. JOSEPH IN PRISON

Even in confinement, God’s hand remained on Joseph, and he continued to walk in wisdom.

a) God was still with him – Even in prison, Joseph prospered. (Genesis 39:21)

b) He was placed in charge of other prisoners – His leadership qualities continued to shine. (Genesis 39:22-23)

c) He interpreted dreams – His gift made room for him, leading to his eventual breakthrough. (Genesis 40:5-19)

d) He was forgotten by the butler – Despite helping the butler, Joseph was left in prison for two more years. (Genesis 40:23)

e) Biblical Example: Paul and Silas also praised God in prison and were delivered. (Acts 16:25-26)

5. JOSEPH'S RISE TO POWER

God’s appointed time came, and Joseph was elevated from prison to the palace.

a) Pharaoh’s troubling dreams – No one could interpret them except Joseph. (Genesis 41:14-16)

b) Joseph’s divine wisdom – His God-given insight saved Egypt from famine. (Genesis 41:25-36)

c) His promotion to second-in-command – He became ruler over Egypt. (Genesis 41:39-41)

d) His strategic planning preserved lives – His wisdom ensured food security for Egypt and surrounding nations. (Genesis 41:48-49)

e) Biblical Example: Mordecai was also elevated after a period of suffering. (Esther 6:10-11)

6. STRENGTHS OF JOSEPH