Repentance before Reconciliation (Joseph's brothers)

In these two chapters we reach the climax in the drama between Joseph and his estranged brothers. In chapter 42 we saw the awakening of conscience in Joseph's brothers (See 42:21, 28). In these chapters we see a deepening of the work of conviction in their hearts through the tests Joseph wisely orchestrated.

Before Joseph attempted reconciliation with his brothers, he clearly wanted to see evidence of a change of mind (repentance) in his brothers' lives. Through this account we are reminded that conviction of sin and confession of sin (a spirit of repentance) are necessary pre-requisites for genuine reconciliation not only in human relationships but most importantly, in the sinner's relationship to God Almighty.