Genesis 39 // Joseph & Potiphar's Wife

 

This chapter brings us back into Joseph’s story, which sharply contrasts with Judah’s. Instead of pursuing selfish desires and giving in to temptation, Joseph shows himself to be a man of integrity. He rises to prominence as a servant in the house of Potiphar. When Potiphar's wife tries to entice Joseph, he doesn't give in and flees. Joseph is then falsely accused and imprisoned. In the ups and downs of Joseph's story, we begin to see a repeated phrase: "The LORD was with Joseph."

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.

  • What is Joseph’s response to being a slave? What is Joseph’s response to being unfairly imprisoned?

  • Both Genesis 38 and 39 deal with the temptation of sexual sin. Compare how Judah and Joseph respond. How does Joseph deliberately respond to the temptations of Potiphar’s wife in this chapter?

  • Read Psalm 105:17-18. How does this enhance your understanding of Joseph’s situation?

HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD

  • How many times does Moses tell us that the Lord was with Joseph? How does this encourage us and stir up our love for the Lord?

  • In this chapter, Moses uses God’s covenant name Yahweh 8 times. How do you see the work of God to fulfill his covenant in this chapter?

HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)

  • How can you respond to temptations in your life? What can you take from Joseph’s story and apply to your life?

  • Joseph showed integrity in a difficult situation. Share a time when you did act with integrity or acted the way the world wanted you to.