Gen 40: As Christ, in "prison" with others, whose fates are
predicted by him. Note the very much Egyptian character of the narrative, even
in small details. It must have been written by a man (like Moses) acquainted
with such things.
Gen 40:3
In his suffering, "Joseph" was associated with two
"criminals"... two who had charge of the "bread" and the "wine"! Two
"criminals", of which one will die and the other will live on in "Joseph's"
kingdom! (see Luk 23:32,39-43).
Gen 40:8
Why did the butler and baker feel that their dreams, unlike
other dreams, were so relevant as to need interpretation? These dreams had the
coincidence of being dreamt on the same night. Some of the details of the dreams
were also very similar (the three branches and the three white baskets, Pharaoh
being in both, and the fact that each dream was appropriate to the office
formerly held by the dreamer.) The combination of these factors undoubtedly made
each one think there was special relevance to these dreams.
Whatever method He chooses to use, God in heaven reveals His
secrets to men, and if we continue to search His revealed word, we will find
them, not by our own efforts, as such, but by His unmerited permission: Gen
41:16; Psa 25:14; Dan 2:28.
Gen 40:13
WITHIN 3 DAYS: Within 3 days, Christ was raised,
thereby sealing fate of 2 men (those on crosses with him), as well as all
others.
LIFT UP YOUR HEAD: Cp v 19: the same phrase is given 2
opposite meanings: cp Jesus, "lifted up" in death (Joh 8:28; 3:14; 12:34), but
also "lifted up" in exaltation in heaven (Joh 12:32).
Gen 40:14
REMEMBER ME: In ct with Jesus, Joseph asks to be
remembered, but is forgotten (v 23). There, Christ is asked to remember another
much less deserving than Joseph, and he remembers!
Gen 40:15
FROM THE LAND OF THE HEBREWS: Joseph puts no blame on
his brothers!
Gen 40:19
LIFT UP YOUR HEAD: Cp v 13: the same phrase is given 2
opposite meanings: cp Jesus, "lifted up" in death (Joh 8:28; 3:14; 12:34), but
also "lifted up" in exaltation in heaven (Joh 12:32).
AND THE BIRDS WILL EAT YOUR FLESH: The fowls of heaven,
called to a great sacrifice.
Gen 40:20
In the only places in Scripture where a birthday is recorded
(here and Herod's: Mat 14:6; Mar 6:21), an execution also occurs.