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Egypt and the regions near it experienced a seven-year famine. When Joseph’s brothers travelled to Egypt to obtain grain, Joseph did not reveal his identity until he saw that they were sorry for what they had done to him in the past. Joseph revealed his identity and forgave them for what they had done. After this, Joseph invited his father, Israel, to move the entire family to Egypt. Pharaoh welcomed Joseph’s family and gave them the land of Goshen as a place to live.
Bible verses used in this episode:
Genesis 41:53-47:12
Outline:
- The brother’s first trip to Egypt to get grain (Genesis 41:53-42:38)
- The second trip to Egypt to get grain (Genesis chapters 43-44)
- Joseph reveals himself (Genesis chapter 45)
- Jacob and his descendants all move to Egypt (Genesis 46:1-42:12)
Tips for teaching children:
- Discuss integrity and how it applies in a child’s world (school, friends, siblings).
- Older children can read Romans 12:17-19 and explain what it means.
- After telling the story, ask the children to choose a scene from the story and draw it.
Tips for teaching adults:
- Ask the class to read the story during the week leading up to your gathering. Ask them to be prepared to discuss it. When gathered, ask the class for insights they gained in reading. How did the story relate to their own life?
- Focus the class on Genesis 45:5-8 and ask the class:
- How could Joseph see God’s hand in all that has happened to him?
- Why were the brothers only seeing their own guilt and punishment?
- Follow up with a time of reflection and consideration of our own life experiences.
- How has God worked to bring good out of bad?
- Have we suffered through difficulties but later saw how God used that difficulty to go on to bring some blessing to others?
Full teaching instructions free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson: Joseph Saves His Family
Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.
Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.
Music: Upbeat Positive Culture (Acoustic Corporate Travel Promo Christian Rock), Individual License, Stock Media provided by HumansWin, pond5.com
For questions or comments email: mary@missionbibleclass.org
