Genesis 47

Joseph Presents His Family to Pharaoh (v.1–10):

Joseph introduces five of his brothers and his father Jacob to Pharaoh.

The brothers honestly tell Pharaoh they are shepherds, requesting to live in Goshen, which Pharaoh grants.

Pharaoh even offers employment to any skilled among them.

Jacob blesses Pharaoh, showing that even in a foreign land, he maintains spiritual authority as a patriarch.

Jacob’s Family Settles in Goshen (v.11–12):

Joseph gives his family the best of the land—the land of Rameses (another name for Goshen).

He provides food and sustenance for all of them during the famine.

Joseph Manages the Famine (v.13–26):

As the famine worsens, people exchange money, then livestock, and finally land and themselves in return for grain.

Joseph acquires land for Pharaoh and establishes a system where people give one-fifth (20%) of their produce to Pharaoh.

He ensures the priests' land is exempt, showing respect for Egyptian customs.

The people express gratitude, saying Joseph has saved their lives.

Jacob’s Final Years in Egypt (v.27–31):

Israel (Jacob) lives 17 more years in Egypt.

His descendants multiply greatly, fulfilling part of God’s promise to make them a great nation.

As Jacob nears death, he makes Joseph swear to bury him in Canaan, not in Egypt, reaffirming faith in God’s promises.

Key Themes:
God’s Provision:

Even in a foreign land, God provides for His people through Joseph’s leadership.

Wisdom and Stewardship:

Joseph’s economic policies show integrity, planning, and fairness, saving both Egyptians and Israelites.

Faith in God's Promises:

Jacob’s insistence on burial in Canaan reflects his trust in the covenant made with Abraham.

Blessing Others:

Jacob blesses Pharaoh, showing that even in a humble state, God’s people can be a source of blessing to others.

Survival with Integrity:

Joseph balances serving Pharaoh and preserving his people—faithfulness in a secular world.

Application Points:
Trust God to provide in difficult times, even when you're in an unfamiliar place.

Practice wise stewardship of resources; Joseph’s example teaches planning and compassion.

Keep your faith rooted in God’s promises, even when far from your “promised land.”

Use your position, like Joseph did, to serve others and glorify God.