Bible Commentaries
Genesis 40

Verses 1-23

CHAPTER 40 Joseph the Interpreter of Dreams

1. The fellow prisoners (Genesis 40:1-8 )

2. The dream of the chief butler (Genesis 40:9-11 )

3. The interpretation (Genesis 40:12-13 )

4. Joseph’s request (Genesis 40:14-15 )

5. The dream of the chief baker (Genesis 40:16-17 )

6. The interpretation (Genesis 40:18-19 )

7. The fulfilment (Genesis 40:20-22 )

8. Joseph forgotten (Genesis 40:23 )

He was reckoned among the transgressors. To the one he spoke the word concerning life, while the other heard the message of death. Thus Christ was reckoned among the evildoers. To the one crucified with Him He said, “Today thou shalt be with Me in paradise,” while the other malefactor railed and died in his sins.

Critics do not believe even this simple story and deny the culture of vines in Egypt. But the Egyptian paintings have given them the lie. They picture the pressing of the grapes in a cup, which was a religious ceremony. Joseph was forgotten; two years longer he had to remain in prison. What exercise of patience and faith he must have had!