Divine Parallels: Exploring the Remarkable Similarities Between Jesus and Joseph

Joseph’s brothers are imprisoned for three days, symbolizing reflection and guilt, paralleling Christ’s resurrection period. They recognize their sin but have yet to seek forgiveness. Joseph, in a gesture of grace, returns their silver, symbolizing unmerited favor. Their superficial peace is disturbed, highlighting the need for true repentance. They attempt to earn favor through gifts, reflecting a legalistic mindset. Joseph reveals himself and invites closeness, signifying forgiveness and reconciliation. This brings shared joy and a mission to spread the news urgently. Joseph admonishes them to avoid disputes, emphasizing unity and focus on their mission, mirroring believers’ call to share the gospel.

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85- Joseph’s Brethren Were Carried into Prison for Three Days	Genesis 42:17: “And he put them all in custody for three days.” The three days Joseph’s brothers spent in prison symbolize a period of reflection, realization, and internal struggle. It is a time when they must confront their past actions and consider their guilt. In prison, Joseph’s brothers would have had time to reflect on their past actions, especially their betrayal of Joseph.	Christ’s Resurrection: This period parallels the three days between Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, symbolizing a transition from death and punishment to life and redemption. Hebrews 12:6: “Because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
86- Joseph’s brethren were now sinners in their conscience	Genesis 42:21: “They said to one another, ‘Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw how distressed he was when he pleaded with us for his life, but we would not listen; that’s why this distress has come on us.’” Recognition of Guilt: Joseph’s brothers finally begin to recognize their guilt for the wrong they did to Joseph. Their conscience awakens, and they start to connect their current suffering with their past sins. Self-Reflection vs. Confession: At this point, the brothers are talking among themselves about their guilt, but they have not yet brought their confession before God. They acknowledge their sin internally but have not yet sought forgiveness or made amends.	Awakening of Conscience: Galatians 6:7: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Romans 2:15: “They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.” Psalm 32:5: “Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.”
87- Joseph makes it known that deliverance is by Grace	Genesis 42:25: “Joseph gave orders to fill their bags with grain, to put each man’s silver back in his sack, and to give them provisions for their journey. After this was done for them,” Return of Silver: The return of the brothers’ silver can be seen as a symbol of forgiveness, indicating that their debt has been paid and their guilt absolved by Joseph’s grace. Psalm 103:12: “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”	Unmerited Favor: Joseph’s act of returning the money and providing for his brothers shows that their deliverance and provision were not based on their ability to pay or earn it but were acts of grace. Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Free Gift of Life: Bread of Life: The grain that Joseph provided represents the sustenance necessary for life, symbolizing the bread of life that Jesus offers, which cannot be bought but must be received as a free gift. John 6:35: “Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.’”
88- Joseph’s brethren soon had their superficial peace disturbed .	Genesis 42:27-28: “At the place where they stopped for the night, one of them opened his sack to get feed for his donkey, and he saw his silver in the mouth of his sack. ‘My silver has been returned,’ he said to his brothers. ‘Here it is in my sack.’ Their hearts sank, and they turned to each other trembling and said, ‘What is this that God has done to us?’” Confrontation of Sin: The brothers’ discovery of the silver in their sacks disturbed their peace, forcing them to confront their past sins and guilt. Genesis 42:21: They remembered their guilt over selling Joseph, recognizing that their current predicament might be divine retribution.	Divine Discomfort: God often disturbs the superficial peace of those He is drawing to Himself, awakening them to their need for repentance and reconciliation. Psalm 32:3-4: “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.” God’s Sovereignty: The return of the silver was a divinely orchestrated event meant to bring the brothers to a place of conviction and dependence on God. Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
89- Joseph’s brethren continue to manifest a legal Spirit	Genesis 43:11,15: “Then their father Israel said to them, ‘If it must be, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your bags and take them down to the man as a gift—a little balm and a little honey, some spices and myrrh, some pistachio nuts and almonds.’ … So the men took the gifts and double the amount of silver, and Benjamin also. They hurried down to Egypt and presented themselves to Joseph.” Efforts to Earn Favor: Joseph’s brothers believed they could earn favor and mercy by presenting gifts and double the money, revealing their legalistic mindset. Genesis 43:12: Their act of bringing double money and gifts illustrates their attempt to gain Joseph’s favor through their own efforts rather than trusting in grace.	Legalism vs. Grace: The brothers’ actions highlight the contrast between human efforts to earn salvation and the divine grace that freely provides it. Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Receiving Grace: The sinner’s role is not to earn salvation but to receive the free gift offered by Christ. John 1:12: “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”
90- Joseph’s brethren are now made happy again	Surface-Level Joy: Joseph’s brothers experienced temporary happiness as they feasted and drank freely with him. This joy, while genuine, did not yet signify a restored relationship or complete reconciliation. Joseph’s provision for his brothers brought them joy and satisfaction, reflecting how God’s provision in our lives brings joy and gratitude. Genesis 43:33-34: “The men had been seated before him in the order of their ages, from the firstborn to the youngest; and they looked at each other in astonishment. When portions were served to them from Joseph’s table, Benjamin’s portion was five times as much as anyone else’s. So they feasted and drank freely with him.”	Deeper Transformation: God’s work in a person’s life goes beyond providing temporary emotional relief or happiness. True salvation involves a deep, transformative relationship with God. God’s saving work involves a process of deep transformation, moving beyond mere emotional experiences to a profound change of heart and life. Romans 5:1-2: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
91- Joseph is detailed. To bring his brethren out into the light. .	Genesis 44:1-2: “Now Joseph gave these instructions to the steward of his house: ‘Fill the men’s sacks with as much food as they can carry, and put each man’s silver in the mouth of his sack. Then put my cup, the silver one, in the mouth of the youngest one’s sack, along with the silver for his grain.’ And he did as Joseph said.” Barrier of Sin: True fellowship with God cannot occur until sins are confessed and dealt with. God’s holiness requires that we confront and rectify our wrongs. Isaiah 59:2: “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”	Bringing Sins to Light: Intentional Revelation: Joseph orchestrated a situation where his brothers’ hidden sins and motives would be brought to light. This act was not for condemnation but for reconciliation and true repentance. 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Jesus as Mediator: Jesus, like Joseph, provides a way for our sins to be forgiven and for us to be reconciled to God. His sacrifice makes it possible for us to approach God with a clean conscience. 1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”
92- Joseph’s brethren, At last, take their true place before God (Gen. 44:4).	Genesis 44:4: “They had not gone far from the city when Joseph said to his steward, ‘Go after those men at once, and when you catch up with them, say to them, “Why have you repaid good with evil?”‘” Conviction of Guilt: Joseph’s brethren are confronted with their wrongdoing, and they can no longer deny or hide their guilt. Psalm 51:3: “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.” Humility and Submission: Joseph’s brothers finally humble themselves and accept their guilt. This mirrors the work of the Holy Spirit, which brings us to a place of humility and submission before God James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”	Spirit’s Conviction: Just as Joseph’s actions brought his brothers to a place of recognizing their guilt, the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin, leading us to repentance. Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” True Repentance: Genuine repentance involves acknowledging our sins and turning away from them, humbling ourselves before God. 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
93- Joseph made himself known to his brethren.	Genesis 45:1: “Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, ‘Have everyone leave my presence!’ So there was no one with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers.” Personal Encounter: Joseph revealed himself directly to his brothers, signifying that salvation and reconciliation come through a personal encounter with the Redeemer. No intermediary can substitute for this direct relationship. John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Trust in God’s Timing: Just as Joseph revealed himself at the perfect moment, we must trust in God’s timing for revelations and answers in our lives. He knows when we are ready to understand and accept His truths. Ecclesiastes 3:1: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”	No Human Interference: Joseph sent everyone away before revealing himself, symbolizing that human intermediaries and rituals cannot replace a direct connection with Christ. This emphasizes the need for a personal relationship with Him, free from ritualistic or human interference. 1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” Timing of God’s Revelation: Joseph chose the right moment to reveal his identity. Similarly, God reveals Himself to us at the right time, often when we are most receptive and ready to understand His truth. Galatians 4:4-5: “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.”
94- Joseph invites his brethren to come near to him	Genesis 45:4: “Then Joseph said to his brothers, ‘Come close to me.’ When they had done so, he said, ‘I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt!’” Removal of Distance: Joseph’s invitation to his brothers to come near symbolizes the removal of barriers and the restoration of intimacy. This reflects God’s desire for a close, personal relationship with His people. James 4:8: “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” John 15:15: “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”	Reassurance: By inviting his brothers closer, Joseph reassures them of his forgiveness and love. Similarly, God invites us to draw near to Him, assuring us of His grace and mercy. Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Greater Understanding: As Joseph’s brothers drew near, they gained a clearer understanding of his identity and intentions. In the same way, as we draw closer to God, we gain deeper insights into His nature and His plans for us. Ephesians 1:17-18: “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.”
95- Joseph tells his brethren of full provision made for them	Genesis 45:10-11: “You shall live in the region of Goshen and be near me—you, your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds, and all you have. I will provide for you there, because five years of famine are still to come. Otherwise, you and your household and all who belong to you will become destitute.” Nearness to the Provider: By inviting his family to live near him in Goshen, Joseph ensures their safety and well-being. Similarly, God invites us to dwell close to Him, where we find safety and security. Psalm 91:1: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”	Sustenance: Joseph promises to provide for his family during the remaining years of famine. This assurance reflects God’s promise to sustain His people through all circumstances. Philippians 4:19: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Holistic Care: Joseph’s provision covers all aspects of his family’s needs, from food to safety. This mirrors God’s comprehensive care for His children, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Living Near to God: The invitation to live in Goshen near Joseph symbolizes God’s invitation for us to abide in Him, where we are assured of His provision and care. John 15:4: “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”
96- Joseph gives proof that he is fully reconciled to his brethren	Genesis 45:15: “And he kissed all his brothers and wept over them. Afterward his brothers talked with him.” Sign of Love: The kiss symbolizes love and forgiveness. In the parable of the Prodigal Son, the father runs to his son, embraces him, and kisses him, showing unconditional love and acceptance. Luke 15:20: “So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Overcoming Fear: After Joseph kissed his brothers and wept over them, their fears were dispelled, and fellowship was restored. This mirrors how God’s forgiveness dispels our fears and restores our fellowship with Him. 1 John 4:18: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” Receiving God’s Embrace: Just as Joseph’s brothers received his kiss and were reassured, we are invited to receive God’s forgiveness and enter into a restored relationship with Him. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.”	Joseph’s Kiss: Joseph’s act of kissing his brothers signifies forgiveness and reconciliation. It was he who took the initiative to show love and acceptance. God’s Initiative: Similarly, God takes the initiative in reconciling us to Himself. He reaches out in love to restore the broken relationship. Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Fearless Fellowship: With our fears dispelled by God’s love and forgiveness, we can live in joyful fellowship with Him and with each other. Ephesians 2:13-14: “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.”
97- Joseph’s joy was shared by others	Genesis 45:16: “When the news reached Pharaoh’s palace that Joseph’s brothers had come, Pharaoh and all his officials were pleased.” Pharaoh’s Pleasure: The joy of Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers was not confined to him alone but extended to Pharaoh and his officials. Heaven’s Joy: Similarly, the joy of a sinner’s reconciliation with God is shared by the entire heavenly host. Community Rejoicing: Just as Joseph’s joy was shared by Pharaoh and his officials, the joy of a new believer’s conversion should be shared by the church community. Angelic Celebration: The joy in heaven over one sinner who repents serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of each individual’s reconciliation with God. Motivated by Joy: Knowing that each conversion brings joy to heaven can motivate believers to share the gospel more fervently.	Luke 15:7, 10: Verse 7: “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. “Verse 10: ” In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. “Heavenly Celebration: These verses emphasize the joy and celebration in heaven over every sinner who repents and is reconciled to God. The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32): Father’s Joy: The father’s joy upon the return of his prodigal son was shared by his household, illustrating the collective joy over reconciliation and redemption. Verse 32: “But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”
98- Joseph’s brethren now go forth seeking others	Genesis 45:9,13: “Hurry back to my father and say to him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; don’t delay. … Tell my father about all the honor accorded me in Egypt and about everything you have seen. And bring my father down here quickly.’” Urgency in the Message: Twice “Haste”: The repetition of the command to “hurry” underscores the urgency of Joseph’s message to his brothers to bring their father to Egypt. Joseph’s Message: Genesis 45:9: “Hurry back to my father and say to him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; don’t delay.” Genesis 45:13: “Tell my father about all the honor accorded me in Egypt and about everything you have seen. And bring my father down here quickly.” Testimony: Joseph’s brothers were to share the testimony of Joseph’s exaltation and the blessings in Egypt, similar to how believers are to testify about Christ’s exaltation and the blessings of the Gospel.	Gospel Urgency: Similarly, the urgency in Joseph’s instructions reflects the urgency with which believers are to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Lord’s Commission: Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Urgency in Evangelism: Immediate Action: Just as Joseph’s brothers were urged to act quickly, believers are called to share the Gospel with a sense of urgency. II Corinthians 6:2: “For he says, ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” Proclaiming the Good News: Testimony of Christ: Just as Joseph’s brothers were to proclaim Joseph’s exaltation, believers are to proclaim the exaltation of Christ and the salvation He offers. Romans 10:14: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”
99- Joseph gives a word of admonition a they go forth	Genesis 45:24: “Then he sent his brothers away, and as they were leaving he said to them, ‘Don’t quarrel on the way!’” Repeating His Words: The mission of Joseph’s brothers was to bring their father and family to Egypt, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the task at hand without getting sidetracked by disputes. Proverbs 17:14: “Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”	II Timothy 2:24: “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.” Crucifying the Flesh: Believers are called to crucify the flesh and its desires to avoid conflicts and strife. Galatians 5:24: “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” Philippians 2:14-16: “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.”