Genesis 39: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Genesis 39 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Genesis 39 narrates the story of Joseph in Egypt, where he is sold into slavery by his brothers and becomes a servant in the house of Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. Despite his difficult circumstances, Joseph excels in his role, gaining the favor of Potiphar, who entrusts him with all his household responsibilities. The chapter highlights Joseph's character, integrity, and unwavering faithfulness to God, illustrating how God is with him in his trials. However, Potiphar's wife attempts to seduce Joseph, but he resists her advances, choosing to honor God and his master. Her betrayal leads to Joseph being falsely accused and imprisoned, yet even in jail, God remains with him, granting him favor with the prison keeper.

Key verse

“But he refused, and said to his master’s wife, “Behold, my master doesn’t know what is with me in the house, and he has put all that he has into my hand.”
Genesis 39:8 (WEB)

Outline

Genesis 39:1–6 Joseph's Rise in Potiphar's House
Genesis 39:7–12 Temptation from Potiphar's Wife
Genesis 39:13–18 False Accusation and Betrayal
Genesis 39:19–20 Joseph Imprisoned
Genesis 39:21–23 Divine Favor in Prison

Discussion questions

In v2, how does the text describe Joseph's status in Potiphar's house?
What does Joseph claim in vv. 9-10 about his master's trust in him?
Potiphar's wife's actions in vv. 12-13: what do they indicate about her intentions?
In v20, why is Joseph's imprisonment significant in the context of his earlier success?
When have you faced a situation like Joseph when resisting temptation in v10?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 39: Psalm 1, 1 Samuel 18, Acts 7.

Before next time: read Genesis 40.