Genesis 50:20 gives Joseph's reply: God meant their evil for good — the reason he could forgive them.

In Genesis 42:21-24, the brothers confess their guilt over Joseph's distress — this earlier episode reveals the specific sin they now seek forgiveness for.

In Genesis 45:4, Joseph reveals himself as the brother they sold into Egypt — this earlier encounter establishes the identity behind the forgiveness plea.

In Genesis 45:5, Joseph tells them not to be distressed, for God sent him — this earlier comfort is the basis for their hope of forgiveness now.

In Genesis 45:8, Joseph asserts God's sovereignty over his being sold — this theological perspective underlies his forgiveness and their plea for mercy.

Proverbs 28:13 promises mercy to those who confess and forsake sin — exactly what the brothers do, receiving mercy from Joseph.

Matthew 6:12 prays for forgiveness as we forgive others—the brothers' plea mirrors the petition for forgiveness of debts.

Matthew 6:14 ties forgiving others to receiving forgiveness—the brothers' request for forgiveness exemplifies this principle.

Luke 17:3 instructs to forgive when a brother repents—the brothers repent and ask forgiveness, which Joseph grants.

Ephesians 4:32 commands forgiving as God forgave—Joseph's response models this divine forgiveness toward his repentant brothers.

Colossians 3:13 commands forgiveness as Christ forgave — the very act the brothers seek from Joseph here.

In Galatians 6:10, Paul urges doing good to all, especially believers — Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers exemplifies this principle of kindness to family.

Colossians 3:12 calls for compassion and humility that enable forgiveness — virtues Joseph displayed when the brothers confessed.

James 5:16 instructs confessing faults to one another — the brothers confess their sin to Joseph.