Commentary on Genesis 39:20

Bible Verse: "And Joseph’s master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king’s prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison."

Introduction

Genesis 39:20 presents a significant moment in the life of Joseph, highlighting both his trials and the faithfulness of God in times of adversity. This commentary synthesizes insights from renowned public domain commentators to elucidate the theological implications and moral lessons from this verse.

The Context of Joseph’s Imprisonment

The events leading to this moment unfold after Joseph, having been sold into slavery by his brothers, rises to a position of trust in Potiphar's house. His integrity and diligence led him to be a favored servant; however, this also made him a target for false accusations due to the attempted seduction by Potiphar's wife.

Matthew Henry's Insights

• Henry notes that Joseph's imprisonment was unjust, marking it as a consequence of his righteousness rather than wrongdoing. This aspect emphasizes that faithfulness to God can lead to suffering in a fallen world.
• He underscores the sovereignty of God, suggesting that even in unjust situations, God's hand is at work, preparing Joseph for greater purposes.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

• Barnes elaborates on the nature of the prison where Joseph was placed, signifying that it was not just any prison but a holding place for royal prisoners. This detail indicates that Joseph was still under the oversight of significant power, even in captivity.
• He emphasizes that Joseph's experience in prison was a part of God’s plan to eventually elevate him. Barnes points out that trials are often the precursors to triumph in God’s narrative.

Adam Clarke’s Perspective

• Clarke reflects on the role of divine providence in Joseph's life. His imprisonment, though seemingly a setback, was instrumental in God’s overarching plan to save many lives during the coming famine.
• He also draws attention to the condition of prisoners in that era, suggesting that Joseph’s time in prison would be far from comfortable, yet it served a divine purpose of purification and preparation.

Theological Implications

This verse demonstrates several key theological themes:

• The Sovereignty of God: Joseph's situation serves as a reminder that God remains sovereign even amidst human injustice.
• The Role of Suffering: The suffering of the righteous is a prevalent theme in Scripture; Joseph's imprisonment illustrates that suffering can be part of God's plan for growth and future glory.
• Faithfulness in Trials: Joseph's integrity in the face of adversity exemplifies how followers of God are called to remain faithful, even when life's circumstances seem bleak.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, and theologians, this verse and its commentary provide several practical insights:

• Encouragement during Trials: Believers can find comfort in knowing that their suffering is not without purpose and that God may be preparing them for future roles of significance.
• Integrity in Adversity: Joseph’s example encourages moral uprightness, challenging believers to maintain their integrity regardless of worldly pressures.
• Trusting God’s Plan: The narrative illustrates the importance of trusting in God’s providence, reinforcing the hope that God is always at work, even in difficult circumstances.

Conclusion

Genesis 39:20 serves as a poignant reminder of Joseph’s faithfulness amidst adversity. The insights of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke converge to reinforce the message of God's providence and the calling for believers to remain steadfast in their faith. In the broader narrative, Joseph’s imprisonment is not a story of despair but of divine preparation, paving the way for future hope not just for himself but for the entire nation of Israel.