Joseph's tactics—his pointed interrogation, tests, and throwing his brothers into prison – were designed to bring them to repentance. Under pressure, they begin to crack. Although for 20 years they had hardened their hearts and seared their conscience, the Holy Spirit used Joseph's tactics to convict them of their sins. In the very presence of their victim, they admit their guilt, recognizing that they are distressed because of God's providence and justice. However, they only admit their guilt to each other and not to the Lord. But it is a first step.
Hearing their confession, Joseph also cracks: the emotional strain takes a toll, and he weeps, no doubt, for many reasons, including that the Lord had answered his prayers that he might not only reunite with his brothers but that they would confess their sins. Composing himself, he follows through on his plan. He places Simeon in prison. This is test number four: will the brothers come back for Simeon?
After being provisioned with grain, the brothers head home. On their journey, they stop at an inn and open one bag. What they find causes a panic: the money they had used to buy the grain is in their sack. Joseph had placed it there for yet another test: what would they do with the money? Will they keep it? Or will they immediately return to Egypt, knowing that Simeon's life might be in danger if they do not? Once again, the brothers failed the test. Instead of turning back, they make their way to their father.
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.
Kurt Snow serves as a ruling elder at Covenant Reformed Church of Sacramento (RCUS). He served as a member of the Board of Governors of City Seminary of Sacramento from 2000 to 2020.
