In Genesis 44, the narrative continues with Joseph's plan to test his brothers. He instructs his steward to place his own silver cup in Benjamin's sack, along with the grain they had purchased from the market. As the brothers set out to return to their father's house, they are overtaken by Joseph's steward, who talks about their theft, guilt and innocence. The brothers, unaware of the planted cup, are shocked and pledge their allegiance. They even offer to become slaves if the cup is found in any of their possession.
The steward begins searching for the sacks, starting with the eldest brother's and ending with Benjamin's, where the cup is discovered. Feeling stressed out, the brothers return to Joseph's house. When confronted with the apparent theft, the brothers express their willingness and sorrow to become helping slaves to save Benjamin. Joseph, moved by their genuine concern for their youngest brother, reveals his true identity and purpose to them. He comforts them that it was all part of God's plan to bring about good things for the hard work not only for them but for many other people.
Joseph instructs his brothers to return to their father, Jacob, with the news of Joseph's high position in Egypt and to bring their father and families to live there, where they will be instructed for during the remaining years of the severe famine. This chapter showcases Joseph's compassion and forgiveness, as well as the ultimate loving reconciliation it receives between him and his brothers. It also emphasizes the overarching theme of God's providence in the lives of His people.