Genesis 39
Joseph in Potiphar's House
Overview
Joseph rises to prominence in Potiphar's house. He resists temptation from Potiphar's wife but is falsely accused and imprisoned.
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Introduction
Genesis 39 shows Joseph's integrity and faithfulness despite unjust circumstances. Even when falsely accused, God's favour remains with him, demonstrating that faithful living doesn't guarantee easy circumstances but does ensure God's presence.
Joseph's Rise in Potiphar's House
[1-6] Joseph prospers under Potiphar:
- [2-3] The LORD was with Joseph so that he prospered. His master saw that the LORD was with him and gave him success.
- [4-6] Joseph found favour and was put in charge of Potiphar's household and everything he owned. The LORD blessed the Egyptian's house because of Joseph.
How Did Joseph Resist Temptation?
[7-12] Potiphar's wife repeatedly tried to seduce Joseph:
- [7] His master's wife took notice of Joseph and said, "Come to bed with me!"
- [8-9] Joseph refused: "My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?"
- [10] Though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her.
- [12] When she caught him by his cloak, he left it in her hand and ran out of the house.
Keys to Resisting Temptation
Joseph's response provides a model for resisting temptation:
- Loyalty to Others: He considered his master's trust.
- Fear of God: He saw sin primarily as against God, not just against people.
- Consistent Refusal: He said no repeatedly, not just once.
- Physical Flight: When cornered, he ran rather than rationalize.
- Avoiding Opportunities: He wouldn't even be alone with her.
False Accusation and Imprisonment
[13-20] Joseph is falsely accused and imprisoned:
- [14-18] Potiphar's wife accused Joseph of attempted assault, using his cloak as "evidence."
- [19-20] Potiphar burned with anger and put Joseph in prison.
God's Presence in Prison
[21-23] Even in prison, God's favour continues:
- [21] The LORD was with Joseph and showed him kindness, granting him favour with the prison warden.
- [22-23] The warden put Joseph in charge of all prisoners. The LORD was with him and gave him success in whatever he did.
Key Takeaways
- Integrity Under Pressure: Joseph maintained his integrity despite persistent temptation.
- Sin Is Against God: Joseph's perspective was that sin is ultimately against God.
- Faithfulness Doesn't Prevent Suffering: Doing right led to false accusation and imprisonment.
- God's Presence in All Circumstances: The phrase "the LORD was with Joseph" appears in prosperity and prison.
- Running from Temptation: Sometimes the best strategy is to flee.
Reflection Questions
- How do you resist temptation when it's persistent?
- How do you respond when doing the right thing leads to suffering?
- Where do you see God's presence in your difficult circumstances?