Two types of Christ are before us in this part of the story where Benjamin is brought in. Joseph is the more prominent, repeatedly presenting the Lord Jesus not only as the Messiah of Israel, but also as the Saviour of the world. As Joseph became the benefactor of all mankind so “The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” 1 John 4: 14.
Benjamin, son of his mother’s sorrow, but also “son of his father’s right hand”—symbol of power— speaks of the Redeemer of Israel, with special attachment to that nation and the One through whom eventually Israel shall be saved. Thus we can understand why the Spirit of God led Joseph to say: “This do, and live; for I fear God: If ye be true men, let one of your brethren be bound in the house of your prison: go ye, carry corn for the famine of your houses: But bring your youngest brother unto me; so shall your words be verified, and ye shall not die.” vv. 18-20. If they would prove the sincerity of their word, it must be in the presence of Benjamin; then only could they go free.
This is solemnly prophetic of a future day. At the present time the Jewish nation seems to be enjoying prosperity and making progress, with large numbers returning to that land, and its government securing for it a renewed place among the nations of the world. But it is tragic to see that this activity is much like the “seven years of great plenty” with no provision being made for the seven years of tribulation that will follow. In those days there will be great anguish, persecution and suffering, from the midst of which a remnant will cry to God turning in true repentance to Him in the name of the Lord (their true Benjamin, as it were). They will be so bowed down by the realization of their long departure from Go both as a nation and as individuals that they will proclaim their guilt, cast themselves upon His mercy and then know His deliverance. Their language will be: “Behold, we come unto Thee; for Thou art the LORD our God... truly in the LORD our God is the salvation of Israel... We lie down in our shame, and our confusion covereth us: for we have sinned against the LORD our God.” Jer. 3: 23-25. Those who refuse to come in the name of their Redeemer will perish, but those who “endure unto the end” in the good of this expressed faith will be brought into blessing.
But the Jew who has heard the gospel of Christ and rejected it must not think that there will be any escape for him if he should be overtaken in that tribulation. He is presently in the time of grace, with salvation offered through the work of Calvary to all mankind (Jew or Gentile) and none shall escape who refuse so great salvation.
ML 07/16/1967