1. The Bible contains many illustrations of the principle revealed in Romans 8:28. 2. Genesis shows how all things worked together for good in Joseph's life. 3. In this lesson we are covering the information presented in 41:33-57. 4. Let us first review vs.1-32 that we covered in our last lesson. a. (vs.1-8) Pharaoh had 2 dreams. 1) One dream was about 7 fat cows and 7 lean cows. 2) The other dream was about 7 good ears of grain and 7 lean ears. 3) These dreams bothered Pharaoh, and no one could interpret them. b. (vs.9-13) Pharaoh's chief butler related how Joseph interpreted his dream in prison. c. (vs.14-16) Joseph was brought from prison to appear before Pharaoh. d. (vs.17-24) Pharaoh related his dreams to Joseph. e. (vs.25-32) Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dreams. 1) (vs.25) Both dreams had to do with something God was about to accomplish. 2) (vs.26-27) Joseph explained the symbolism of the cows and the ears of grain. 3) (vs.28-31) Joseph explained what was about to happen. 4) (vs.32) Joseph showed there could be no doubt about what God was going to do. 5. Vs. 33-57 show how Joseph was promoted to the second highest position in Egypt. Discussion: I. (vs.33-36) JOSEPH ADVISED PHARAOH ABOUT HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE FAMINE
A. (vs.33) Joseph's plan included putting a wise and discreet man in charge. B. (vs.34) Joseph's plan also included overseers who would collect a fifth part during the 7 years of plenty. C. According to vs.35-36, following this plan would allow Egypt to have sufficient food during the 7 years of famine. II. (vs.37-41) PHARAOH AGREED WITH JOSEPH'S PLAN
A. (vs.37) Pharaoh and his servants approved of Joseph's advice. B. (vs.38-41) Pharaoh placed Joseph in the position that Joseph suggested (vs.33). C. Pharaoh made Joseph the second highest ruler in Egypt. III. (vs.42-46) PHARAOH MADE JOSEPH'S PROMOTION OFFICIAL
A. (vs.42-43a) Pharaoh gave Joseph his ring, he dressed Joseph in fine clothes, he put a gold chain about Joseph's neck, and he placed Joseph in his second chariot. B. (vs.43b) People were to show reverence to Joseph. C. (vs.44) Joseph was given high authority. D. (vs.45) Pharaoh gave Joseph another name, and he gave Joseph a wife. E. (vs.46) Joseph was 30 years old when he was given this high position. IV. (vs.47-49) JOSEPH FULFILLED HIS RESPONSIBILITIES
A. During the 7 good years, the land produced an abundant harvest. B. Joseph gathered grain and stored it up for the approaching famine. V. (vs.50-52) GOD BLESSED JOSEPH WITH 2 SONS
A. Joseph's sons were born before the famine began. B. Their names are significant. VI. (vs.53-57) THE 7 YEARS OF FAMINE ARRIVED
A. Egypt was not the only country affected by the famine; however, food was available in Egypt. B. The Egyptians came to Joseph for food. C. People from other countries also came to Joseph for food. Conclusion:
1. Joseph rose from being a slave to the second highest ruler in Egypt. 2. The stage was being set for Joseph's family to move to Egypt (15:13-14).
