창세기 Chapter 39

Translation: ESV

2

The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, and he was in the house of his Egyptian master.

Key Message

God's presence is not determined by outward circumstances (such as being a slave), and whoever is with God can prosper anywhere.

▸Chapter 39 opens with the theological declaration: 'The LORD was with Joseph.

Chapter 39 opens with the theological declaration: 'The LORD was with Joseph.' This statement is the key interpretive lens for the entire chapter — the key to understanding all the prosperity and trials that follow. Even in the condition of slavery, God's presence did not withdraw.

Related Verses

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.
7

And after a time his master's wife cast her eyes on Joseph and said, 'Lie with me.'

Key Message

Temptation comes at the most unexpected moments and from the most unexpected places, and resisting it is the test of godliness.

▸Potiphar's wife attempts to seduce Joseph.

9

He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?

Key Message

The foundation of genuine moral decision-making is not the eyes of others but a sense of accountability before God.

▸Joseph's reason for refusing the temptation is clear.

20

And Joseph's master took him and put him into the prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined, and he was there in prison.

Key Message

Even suffering received for doing right lies within God's providence, and even prison can become a school for fulfilling God's purpose.

▸As a result of doing what was right, Joseph is thrown into prison — an outcome incomprehensible by the world's logic.

21

But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.

Key Message

God's presence and steadfast love were equally with Joseph — in Potiphar's house and in prison alike.

▸Even in prison, 'The LORD was with Joseph' is repeated.