Chapter Summary

Joseph tested in Egypt in the house of Potiphar.

Discussion Questions for Genesis, Chapter 39

1. In strong contrast to Judah (see Genesis 38), Joseph trusted God's will and experienced many blessings. Describe his work and personal ethic. How do you think you would work if you were a slave to a foreign nation? Do you think Joseph battled with mental and emotional burdens? What does faith do for our worries?
2. How did Joseph get tested? In what ways was this situation different from Judah's temptation? Why do you think God tested Joseph? Would you have more sympathy on Joseph if he sinned than Judah? Why or why not?
3. When temptations come, our view of God guides our decision making and impulses. What was Joseph's view of God? What did he feel in that moment? How can we buy ourselves time and make better decisions in the heat of temptation?
4. Potiphar's wife tried to seduce Joseph and when that failed, she accused him and tried to ruin his life. Have you ever been falsely accused or slandered publicly? How did you handle that situation? How does an accusation within the church hit differently than an accusation by the world?
5. How did God take care of Joseph in prison? Why does God's steadfast love and faithfulness matter when we have nothing else?
6. Why should we work hard for our jobs? What about when we are paid little and respected less? How do we view "climbing the corporate ladder" as believers?
7. Do you hear about attempted seductions and blackmail happening today? Where do you see power dynamics at play with these situations? How would you counsel a victim to respond to these situations? How can we pursue trust in God and justice for the oppressed?
8. God kept giving Joseph a platform to make a difference. What platforms and spheres of influence do you have? Can your managers/clients trust you to do everything well without close supervision or pushing you to succeed? Give an example of that responsibility. If you have not, how can you start that practice?
9. What is the role of a digital influencer? Do you think their role is overrated or helpful? Spiritually speaking, what is our role as Kingdom influencers? How can we be like John the Baptist and make life about Jesus and not us?
10. Does this generation value servant leadership? Where do you see servant leaders making strides? Why does it matter if leaders have proven character?

Key Words/Phrase

Goodly, v. 6.

Characters

Joseph, Potiphar, Potiphar's wife, prison keeper.

Strong Verse(s)

2, 3, 21.