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Throughout scripture, we see profound parallels between the life of Joseph and Jesus Christ. These parallels reveal God's sovereign plan and providence, with over 100 areas where Joseph's life pictures the coming Messiah. One of the most striking parallels is seen in how both Joseph and Jesus were exalted to positions of authority and given a bride.
Joseph's Bride as a Picture of the Church
Three brides in Genesis serve as types of Christ's church:
- Eve - A picture of the church's creation, formed from Adam's side just as the church was formed from Christ's wounded side
- Rebecca - Represents the calling of the church, leaving her pagan land to journey toward her bridegroom
- Asenath - Illustrates the coronation of the church, sharing in her bridegroom's exaltation
The Spiritual Condition of Joseph's Bride
Asenath, whose name means "belonging to the goddess Neith," came from deep spiritual darkness as the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On. Like all humanity before salvation, she was born into spiritual darkness, deserving only judgment. As Ephesians 2:1-3 describes, we were all "dead in trespasses and sins" before Christ.
Her Elevated Status
When Joseph was elevated to power, Asenath was elevated with him - not through her own merit but purely by sovereign choice. She became the bride of Egypt's most powerful man, second only to Pharaoh. Similarly, the church is elevated not through its own worthiness but through Christ's gracious choice.
The Journey of Joseph and Jesus
Several key parallels emerge in their journeys:
- Both laid aside their glory - Joseph his coat of many colors, Jesus His heavenly glory
- Both became servants - Joseph as a slave, Christ taking "the form of a servant" (Philippians 2:7)
- Both faced and overcame temptation while maintaining perfect integrity
- Both were falsely accused despite their innocence
- Both were successful in all they did - Joseph in leadership, Jesus in ministry
The Land of Affliction
Even in elevated positions, both Joseph and Jesus experienced affliction. For believers today, we remain in our "land of affliction" while living victoriously through Christ. Key parallels include:
- Both received new names signifying authority and power
- Both were given gentile brides
- Both received all authority in their domains
- Both intervened directly in people's lives
Their exaltations were followed by times of plenty and then famine - just as Christ's resurrection ushered in an age of grace to be followed by tribulation. Like Joseph controlling Egypt's bread supply, Jesus alone is the Bread of Life, with sufficient provision for all who come to Him.
This profound typology reminds us that Jesus Christ is our ultimate sovereign provider, savior, and bridegroom. He alone possesses the power to save, comfort, and sustain His people through every affliction.