Chapter Summary

Pharaoh's dream. Joseph's exaltation in Egypt and his Gentile bride.

Discussion Questions for Genesis, Chapter 41

1. Joseph's dreams played a large role in his life. Have you ever had a dream that felt this significant? What did you do in response to this dream?
2. What connections do you see between Joseph's interpretations of these dreams and the dreams of the prisoners from chapter 40 and his own dreams from chapter 37? How has Joseph grown in his approach during this time?
3. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's plan to store up for the famine? How can you use this principle this month?
4. How do you think Joseph's experiences in prison shaped him into the person he became in this chapter? What experiences have shaped you in your life?
5. How do you think Joseph's earlier experiences helped prepare him for his eventual role as 2nd in command over all of Egypt? Would he have been ready before he was sold into slavery? Would he have been ready before he went to prison? Why or why not?
6. Why do you think it was important that Joseph mention that the interpretation comes from God? How can we show a similar kind of humility when using the gifts that God gave us?
7. After Joseph's elevation to 2nd in command, Pharaoh changes Joseph's name and gives him a wife. Was this a good thing or not? Why? What passages can you use to make your case?
8. Joseph's story has many ups and downs in it. How can we show our faithfulness in the face of despair and prosperity?
9. God used Joseph's brother's evil intentions and eventually used it for good. How has God used bad situations in your life for good?
10. What leadership principles can we learn from Joseph's story? How does his care for those in need reflect how we need to live our lives?

Key Words/Phrase

Exalted (set over), v. 41.

Characters

Pharaoh, Joseph, butler, Asenath, Manasseh, Ephriam.

Strong Verse(s)

38, 39.