Genesis 43 Commentary
The food has run out and the brothers must make another trip to Egypt. Judah steps forward to try to convince his reluctant father to release Benjamin. The trip cannot be made without Benjamin. Simeon would not be released without Benjamin.
“I myself will guarantee his safety; you can hold me personally responsible for him. If I do not bring him back to you and set him here before you, I will bear the blame before you all my life.”
On this simple and manly promise, rather than Reuben’s sinful and cowardly offer of his own two sons, Israel releases Benjamin.
Reflect on Reuben’s offer and see his level of wickedness! He won’t lose anything! It actually looks like child sacrifice! Conversely, how can he care more about Benjamin than his two sons! Jacob won’t be fooled by this kind of wickedness! 42vs37.
We are not impressed with Reuben! Equally, and consequently, we shouldn’t be impressed with our worship when things seem to substitute humans. It’s your heart and not your money! It’s your heart and not your promises!
Judah steps in after Reuben’s futile attempt. The Lion of the tribe of Judah would step in when human sacrifices fail. Jesus guarantees your safety; the LORD God would hold him personally responsible for your safety. This thought is familiar! The saved soul knows it all too well.
Judah is in the story! Forget his earlier indiscretions with Tamar. His story does more than interrupting Joseph’s sweet but moving story. The LORD God is up to something special! On Judah’s shoulders shall rest an important part of the blessing. Judah’s interventions today and tomorrow are prophetic.
The chapter ends with a feast at Joseph’s residence. Benjamin is given special treatment by Joseph. The next story would revolve around Benjamin and Judah’s symbolically redemptive intervention. We hold our breath as we wait to see how the epic story unfolds.
More resources visit http://www.lovingscripture.com
LOVING SCRIPTURE 