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THE FAMINE

Text: Genesis 43
17 September 2013

(I) THE FAMINE

1. The famine continues (Genesis 43:1)

2. This famine would last seven years (Genesis 41:27, 36)

(II) JACOB’S DILEMMA

1. The grain from Egypt had finally been consumed

2. Jacob asked his sons to go to Egypt to buy grain once again (Genesis 43:2)

3. Judah’s response

a) They could not go back to Egypt without bringing Benjamin with them

b) They would not dare to go down to Egypt without Benjamin (Genesis 43:3-5)

4. Jacob’s frustration

Why did they divulge that they had a younger brother at home? (Genesis 43:6)

5. Reply of the other sons

a) They were asked questions pointedly

b) They could not help but answer the questions

c) They could not anticipate that Benjamin would be asked to go down with them to Egypt (Genesis 43:7)

6. Judah’s offer

a) He will look after Benjamin personally

b) He will be surety for Benjamin

c) He will accept the blame if Benjamin is harmed in any way

d) Much time had been lost already; they could not afford to delay any longer (Genesis 43:8-10)

(III) JACOB’S ACCEPTANCE

1. There was no alternative but to accept the inevitable

2. Bringing a present for the Governor of Egypt

a) The best fruits in the land

b) A little balm

c) A little honey

d) Spices and myrrh

e) Pistachio nuts

f) Almonds (Genesis 43:11)

3. Money

a) Double the money

b) Return of the money found in their sacks

c) Benjamin may go along with them (Genesis 43:12)

4. Invocation of God’s name

a) God Almighty

b) May he grant mercy

c) May he release Simeon and Benjamin (Genesis 43:13)

5. Acceptance of possible bereavement

“If I am bereaved, I am bereaved!” Genesis 43:14