Divine Parallels: Exploring the Remarkable Similarities Between Jesus and Joseph

Divine Parallels: Exploring the Remarkable Similarities Between Jesus and Joseph – Part 1

Divine Parallels: Exploring the Remarkable Similarities Between Jesus and Joseph – Part 2

The biblical passages highlight parallels between the life of Joseph in the Old Testament and the life of Jesus in the New Testament. Both faced suffering at the hands of Gentiles, with Joseph sold into slavery by his brothers and later serving in Potiphar’s household, while Jesus underwent trial before Pontius Pilate and endured Roman crucifixion. The theme of innocence and severe suffering is emphasized, drawing connections between Joseph’s trials and Jesus’ sinlessness. Joseph’s exaltation and ruling over Egypt parallel Jesus’ exaltation to the right hand of God. Joseph’s exaltation due to personal worth corresponds to the humility and subsequent exaltation of Jesus Christ outlined in Philippians. Overall, the narrative draws rich connections between the Old and New Testament figures, highlighting theological themes of suffering, redemption, and divine guidance.

35- Suffering by Gentiles	Sold into Slavery by Ishmaelite Traders (Gentiles): Joseph’s initial encounter with suffering by Gentiles occurred when his jealous brothers sold him into slavery. They subsequently deceived their father, Jacob, into believing that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal. Joseph was taken to Egypt by Ishmaelite traders, who were Gentiles (Genesis 37:12-36). Serving in Potiphar’s Household (Egyptian): In Egypt, Joseph was sold as a slave to Potiphar, an Egyptian official and Gentile. While in Potiphar’s household, Joseph faced temptation and false accusations by Potiphar’s wife, which led to his unjust imprisonment (Genesis 39). Imprisonment in Egypt (Egyptian): Joseph’s time in prison was another period of suffering by Gentiles. He was falsely accused of attempting to seduce Potiphar’s wife and was subsequently thrown into prison, where he remained for a significant portion of his life (Genesis 39:20-23).	Trial before Pilate: Prior to His crucifixion, Jesus was subjected to a trial before Pontius Pilate, a Gentile Roman official. Although Pilate found no guilt in Jesus and initially sought to release Him, he yielded to the pressure of the Jewish religious leaders and the crowd. Pilate ordered Jesus to be crucified to appease the Jewish leaders and maintain Roman control and order. Scourging and Mockery: Before the crucifixion, Jesus endured physical suffering at the hands of Roman soldiers. He was scourged, which involved being whipped with a multi-tailed whip, causing severe lacerations and pain. The soldiers also mocked Him by placing a crown of thorns on His head and dressing Him in a purple robe, ridiculing His claim to be a king (Matthew 27:27-31). Roman Crucifixion: Jesus’ ultimate suffering at the hands of Gentiles occurred when He was crucified by order of the Roman governor Pontius Pilate. Crucifixion was a form of execution used by the Romans, and it was a brutal and painful method of death. Jesus was subjected to this form of execution alongside two criminals.
36- The Innocent one, suffered Severely.	Joseph’s Innocence and Suffering (Acts 7:9-10, Psalm 105:17-18): In Acts 7:9-10 and Psalm 105:17-18, Joseph is depicted as the innocent one who was sold into Egypt by his brothers. Despite his innocence, he faced severe trials and suffering, including false accusations and imprisonment.	Jesus’ Sinlessness: Throughout the New Testament, Jesus is consistently portrayed as sinless and blameless. He is referred to as the “spotless Lamb of God” (John 1:29) and is described as one who knew no sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus’ sinlessness is a fundamental aspect of His identity as the Savior. 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV): “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Hebrews 4:15 (NIV): “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” 1 Peter 2:22 (NIV): “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” 1 John 3:5 (NIV): “But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin.” Hebrews 7:26 (NIV): “Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.” John 8:46 (NIV): “Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me?”
37- Joseph won the respect of his Jailer	Joseph Winning the Respect of His Jailer (Genesis 39:21): In this verse, Joseph’s behavior and character in prison earned him the respect of the jailer. The jailer recognized Joseph’s integrity and entrusted him with responsibilities.	Jesus and the Roman Centurion (Luke 23:47): During the crucifixion of Jesus, a Roman Centurion who witnessed the events declared, “Certainly this man was innocent!” This centurion acknowledged Jesus’ innocence and divinity at the moment of His death.
38- Numbered with transgressors	Joseph Numbered with Transgressors (Genesis 40:1-3): Joseph is placed in prison along with the chief butler and the chief baker, both of whom had fallen out of favor with Pharaoh. Joseph, despite his innocence, finds himself in the company of individuals facing judgment.	Jesus Crucified with Two Thieves: during Jesus’ crucifixion, He was crucified between two thieves. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, was crucified alongside criminals, fulfilling the prophecy from Isaiah 53:12, which foretold His crucifixion among transgressors. Luke 22:37 (NIV): “It is written: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors’; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment.” Mark 15:27-28 (NIV): “They crucified two rebels with him, one on his right and one on his left. Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, ‘So! You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days.’”
39- Joseph was the means of Blessings to one, Judgment to other.	Joseph and the Butler/Baker Contrast: Butler (Cupbearer): Joseph’s interpretation of the butler’s dream predicted a positive outcome – the butler’s restoration to Pharaoh’s service. The butler was lifted up, and he resumed his role, symbolized by having the cup in his hand. This represents a form of deliverance and favor. Baker: Conversely, Joseph’s interpretation of the baker’s dream foretold a negative outcome – the baker’s execution. The baker did not receive a favorable interpretation, and he faced judgment. The association of the baker with human labor symbolize that human efforts alone cannot secure salvation.	Precious Blood of the Lamb: The New Testament teaches that through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, His blood serves as the atonement for sin and the means of redemption and deliverance. Human works alone cannot bring deliverance cannot secure salvation, but through the redemptive work of Christ, symbolized by the precious blood of the Lamb, all can find forgiveness, salvation, and ultimate deliverance from the judgment of sin.
40- Joseph evidenced his Knowledge of Future	Joseph Evidencing Knowledge of Future (Genesis 40:8): In Genesis 40:8, Joseph responds to the dreams of the butler and the baker in prison, stating, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” Joseph, through divine insight, interprets these dreams accurately, foretelling the future fate of the individuals involved.	Jesus’ Statement in John 12:49: In John 12:49, Jesus declares, “For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak.” This statement emphasizes Jesus’ divine knowledge and the authority with which He speaks, indicating that His words are in alignment with the will of the Father. Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams was a manifestation of God’s guidance, and Jesus, as the Son of God, spoke with divine authority, conveying the will and commandments of the Father.
41- Joseph’s predictions came true	Joseph’s Predictions Coming True (Genesis 40:20-22): In these verses, Joseph’s interpretations of the dreams of the chief butler and the chief baker are realized. The chief butler is restored to his position in Pharaoh’s court, while the chief baker is executed, aligning with Joseph’s earlier interpretations.	Reliability of Every Word of God: In Isaiah 55:11, which says, “so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” Another assurance of the reliability of God’s word is seen in Numbers 23:19, “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?”
42- Joseph desired to be Remembered	Joseph’s Desire to be Remembered (Genesis 40:14): In Genesis 40:14, Joseph, interpreting the dream of the chief butler, requests that the butler remembers him and mentions him to Pharaoh once he is restored to his position. Joseph expresses a desire not to be forgotten but to be remembered for his interpretations and service.	Phrase “This do in Remembrance of Me”: The phrase “This do in remembrance of me” is from the New Testament, specifically from Jesus’ words during the institution of the Lord’s Supper (Communion) in Luke 22:19 and 1 Corinthians 11:24-25. Jesus instructs His disciples to partake in the bread and the cup, symbolizing His body and blood, in remembrance of Him. This ritual serves as a commemoration of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.
43- Joseph in due time delivered from Prison	Joseph’s Deliverance from Prison (Genesis 40:14): In Genesis 40:14, Joseph requests the chief butler to remember him and mention him to Pharaoh. In due time, Joseph is delivered from prison, as the chief butler recalls Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams, leading to Joseph’s release and eventual rise to a position of authority in Egypt.	Jesus’ Resurrection (Acts 2:24; John 20:6-7): Acts 2:24 declares the resurrection of Jesus, stating that “God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it.” This affirms the victory of Jesus over death and His deliverance from the grave. In John 20:6-7, after Jesus’ crucifixion, His empty tomb is discovered by Mary Magdalene and the disciple whom Jesus loved (traditionally identified as John). The linen cloths used for Jesus’ burial are found neatly folded, indicating that Jesus had risen from the dead.
44- Joseph was delivered from Prison by the Hand of God	Joseph’s Deliverance by the Hand of God (Genesis 45:7-9): In Genesis 45:7-9, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, who had come to Egypt seeking food during a famine. He emphasizes that it was God’s hand that orchestrated events, including his being sold into slavery and his time in prison, for a greater purpose—saving lives during the famine.	Jesus’ Resurrection in Acts: Acts 2:24 declares, “God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death because it was not possible for him to be held by it.” This verse speaks of the resurrection of Jesus, emphasizing the divine power that raised Him from the dead. Acts 2:32 affirms, “This Jesus God raised up, and of that, we all are witnesses.” The apostles proclaim the resurrection as a central tenet of their testimony. Acts 10:40 states, “but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear.” Again, the emphasis is on God’s role in raising Jesus from the dead.
45- Joseph is seen now as the Revealed of Secrets	Joseph as the Revealer of Secrets (Genesis 41:16): In Genesis 41:16, Joseph responds to Pharaoh’s request to interpret his dreams by saying, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.” Joseph acknowledges that the ability to interpret dreams and reveal hidden secrets comes from God.	Jesus as the Revealer of God’s Words in John: John 17:8 records Jesus praying to the Father, saying, “For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me.” Jesus is portrayed as the one who reveals the words and teachings given by God the Father. John 8:28 features Jesus saying, “So Jesus said to them, ‘When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me.’” Here, Jesus emphasizes that His words and teachings are in accordance with the Father’s instruction. John 12:49 further reinforces Jesus’ role as the Revealer of God’s words, “For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak.
46- Joseph Warned Danger and Urged to make Preparations.	Joseph’s Warning and Urging Preparations (Genesis): In Genesis, Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams of seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:25-32). Recognizing the imminent danger, Joseph advises Pharaoh to appoint a wise and discerning man to oversee preparations for the famine. Joseph himself is chosen for this role, and during the years of plenty, he instructs the Egyptians to store grain to endure the upcoming scarcity (Genesis 41:46-49).	Jesus’ Instruction to Watch and Pray (New Testament): In the New Testament, Jesus speaks about future events and the importance of being spiritually prepared. In Matthew 24:42-44, Jesus instructs his followers to “watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus urges his disciples to watch and pray, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance and readiness (Matthew 26:41; Mark 13:33).
47- Joseph next appeared as the Wonderful Counselor.	Joseph as a Wonderful Counselor: The title “Wonderful Counselor” is not explicitly applied to Joseph in the Old Testament. However, Joseph’s role as a counselor is evident in his wise and discerning actions throughout his life, such as interpreting dreams, advising Pharaoh, and managing resources during the famine.	Colossians 2:3: Colossians 2:3 states, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” This verse refers to Christ, emphasizing that in Him resides the entirety of divine wisdom and knowledge. The context of Colossians underscores the sufficiency of Christ’s wisdom and knowledge, surpassing any human or worldly understanding.
48- Joseph’s Counsel was commended by Pharaoh and his officers	Joseph’s Counsel Commended by Pharaoh (Genesis 41:37-39): In Genesis 41, Pharaoh acknowledges the wisdom and discernment of Joseph’s counsel regarding the impending famine. Recognizing the Spirit of God in Joseph, Pharaoh appoints him as the second-in-command in Egypt, entrusting him with the responsibility of implementing a plan to prepare for the years of scarcity.	Jesus’ Teaching Admired (New Testament References): Matthew 7:28-29 records the reaction of the crowds to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount: “And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.” In Matthew 13:54, people in Jesus’ hometown express amazement at His teaching: “and coming to his hometown, he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, ‘Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works?’” In John 7:46, officers sent to arrest Jesus return without Him, and when asked why, they reply, “No one ever spoke like this man!”
49- Joseph is exalted and Set over all Egypt	Joseph Exalted and Set Over All Egypt (Genesis 41:39-40): In Genesis 41, after interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams and providing wise counsel, Joseph is exalted to a position of great authority in Egypt. Pharaoh acknowledges Joseph’s wisdom and discernment, declaring him to be second only to Pharaoh himself. Joseph is given authority over all of Egypt, symbolized by the signet ring and fine linen garments bestowed upon him.	Jesus Exalted in 1 Peter 3:22: 1 Peter 3:22 refers to the exaltation of Jesus: “who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.” This verse highlights the post-resurrection and ascension exaltation of Jesus to the right hand of God, signifying His supreme authority over all.
50- Joseph is exalted and Set over all Egypt	Joseph’s Exaltation and Ruling Over Egypt (Genesis 41:39-40): In Genesis 41, Joseph is exalted to a position of great authority in Egypt by Pharaoh. As the second-in-command, Joseph oversees the affairs of the entire nation, including the management of resources during the years of plenty and scarcity. His authority extends over all of Egypt, and he becomes instrumental in saving not only Egypt but also his own family and many others from famine.	Jesus Seated on His Father’s Throne (Revelation 3:21): Revelation 3:21 refers to the exalted position of Jesus: “The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.” This verse speaks of the future reward for those who overcome and follow Christ, with a promise of sharing in His exalted position and authority.
51- Joseph was exalted to the Throne because of His Personal Worth.	Joseph’s Exaltation in Egypt Due to Personal Worth (Genesis 41:39-41): In Genesis 41:39-41, Joseph is exalted to a position of great authority in Egypt by Pharaoh. This exaltation is a result of Joseph’s personal worth, demonstrated through his wise counsel, interpretation of dreams, and effective management during times of plenty and famine. Joseph’s integrity, humility, and dedication to service contribute to his exalted status.	Philippians 2:6-9: Philippians 2:6-9 describes the humility and subsequent exaltation of Jesus Christ: “who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore, God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name.” This passage highlights Jesus’ humility in taking on human form, serving obediently, and ultimately being exalted to the highest position by God.