Exodus (Complete Outlines)

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Introduction to Exodus: From Joseph to

Introduction to Exodus: From Joseph to Moses

Moses

Exodus Chapters 1 & 2

I.

I. ContextContext A.

A. Who are the main charaWho are the main characters? cters? What do we know about them?What do we know about them?

•

• Pharaoh:Pharaoh:

•

• Moses’ Mother:Moses’ Mother:

•

• Pharaoh’s Daughter:Pharaoh’s Daughter:

•

• Moses:Moses:

B.

B. When does this passage take place?When does this passage take place?

•

• According to the Ryrie Study Bible, most scholars believe that the Bible and historical evidenceAccording to the Ryrie Study Bible, most scholars believe that the Bible and historical evidence

supports the belief that the exodus took

supports the belief that the exodus took place around 1440 B.C. place around 1440 B.C. Further, Ryrie estimates thatFurther, Ryrie estimates that approximately 200 years passed between Joseph’s generation and the people’s deliverance from Eg approximately 200 years passed between Joseph’s generation and the people’s deliverance from Eg ypt.ypt. Exodus 1:6 tells us t

Exodus 1:6 tells us t hat all of Joseph’s generation had already died and hat all of Joseph’s generation had already died and the Israelites’ population hadthe Israelites’ population had exploded when Pharaoh beg

exploded when Pharaoh began to institute population control over them. an to institute population control over them. The first half of Exodus The first half of Exodus 22 covers approximately 40 years because Acts 7:23 tell

covers approximately 40 years because Acts 7:23 tell s us that Moses was 40 s us that Moses was 40 years old when he killedyears old when he killed the Egyptian in Exodus 2:12.

the Egyptian in Exodus 2:12. The length of the “long period” The length of the “long period” in v. 2:23 is unknown at this point.in v. 2:23 is unknown at this point. C.

C. Where does this passage take place?Where does this passage take place?

•

• The majority of this passage takes place in Egypt (1:1-2:15) until Moses flees to Midian, which was onThe majority of this passage takes place in Egypt (1:1-2:15) until Moses flees to Midian, which was on

the Sinai Peninsula.

the Sinai Peninsula. The passage ends wThe passage ends with mention of the Israelites’ oppression back ith mention of the Israelites’ oppression back in Egypt. (2:23)in Egypt. (2:23) D.

D. What is happening? (Summary of Events)What is happening? (Summary of Events)

•

• Moses begins by recapping Jacob’s and his family’s leaving Moses begins by recapping Jacob’s and his family’s leaving Canaan and living in Egypt Canaan and living in Egypt (1:1-5)(1:1-5) •

• After Joseph’s generation, the Israelites grew in number After Joseph’s generation, the Israelites grew in number and caught the attention of Pand caught the attention of P haraoh. (1:6-10)haraoh. (1:6-10) •

• Pharaoh, fearing the possibility of the Israelites’ rebellion, subjected them to forced labor (1:10-11)Pharaoh, fearing the possibility of the Israelites’ rebellion, subjected them to forced labor (1:10-11) •

• The Israelites continued to increase in nuThe Israelites continued to increase in nu mber, so the Egyptians worked tmber, so the Egyptians worked t hem even harder. (1:12-14)hem even harder. (1:12-14) •

• In an effort to control the Israelite population, Pharaoh commanded the Hebrew midwives to kill theIn an effort to control the Israelite population, Pharaoh commanded the Hebrew midwives to kill the

male children at birth, but because they feared the Lord, they did not. (1:15-21) male children at birth, but because they feared the Lord, they did not. (1:15-21)

•

• As a second effort, Pharaoh ordered that all Hebrew boys must be thrown into the Nile (1:22)As a second effort, Pharaoh ordered that all Hebrew boys must be thrown into the Nile (1:22) •

• A Levite family had a son, but instead of obeying Pharaoh, kept him hidden for 3 months (2:1-2)A Levite family had a son, but instead of obeying Pharaoh, kept him hidden for 3 months (2:1-2) •

• When his mother could no longer hide him, she prepared a basket, placed him in it, and floated it downWhen his mother could no longer hide him, she prepared a basket, placed him in it, and floated it down

the Nile.

the Nile. The boy’s sister kept watch ovThe boy’s sister kept watch over it until it was found by Pharaoh’s er it until it was found by Pharaoh’s daughter (2:3-6)daughter (2:3-6)

•

• The boy’s sister suggested to Pharaoh’s daughter that the The boy’s sister suggested to Pharaoh’s daughter that the boy be nursed by a Hebrew woman, boy be nursed by a Hebrew woman, andand

when she agreed, the boy’s sister returned him

when she agreed, the boy’s sister returned him to his mother (2:7-9)to his mother (2:7-9)

•

• When the boy was older, he When the boy was older, he was returned to Pharaoh’s daughter and she named him Moses (2:was returned to Pharaoh’s daughter and she named him Moses (2: 10)10) •

• When Moses was 40 years old (Acts 7:23), When Moses was 40 years old (Acts 7:23), he came upon an Egyptian beating ahe came upon an Egyptian beating a n Israelite and came ton Israelite and came to

the man’s aid, killing the Egyptian man and hiding him in the sand. (2:11-12) the man’s aid, killing the Egyptian man and hiding him in the sand. (2:11-12)

•

• News of his deed spread and eventually Pharaoh tried to kill him, so Moses fled to Midian (2:13-15)News of his deed spread and eventually Pharaoh tried to kill him, so Moses fled to Midian (2:13-15) •

• In Midian, Moses defended some shepherdesses from some other shepherds and was taken in In Midian, Moses defended some shepherdesses from some other shepherds and was taken in byby

Reuel’s/Jethro’s family.

Reuel’s/Jethro’s family. He married one of ReuHe married one of Reuel’s daughters and lived there fel’s daughters and lived there for awhile (2:16-21)or awhile (2:16-21)

•

• During this long period, During this long period, God heard the cries of the Israelites God heard the cries of the Israelites in bondage and remembered his covenantin bondage and remembered his covenant

with Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob. (2:23-25) with Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob. (2:23-25) II.

II. InterpretationInterpretation A.

A. What are the principles illustrated in this pasWhat are the principles illustrated in this passage? sage? What is the theme?What is the theme?

B.

B. How is God involved in this passage? How is God involved in this passage? How/when is he mentioned and by wHow/when is he mentioned and by whom?hom?

C.

C. The Hebrew Midwives and Moses’ family disobeyed PThe Hebrew Midwives and Moses’ family disobeyed P haraoh’s orders, yet Romans 13 tells us to haraoh’s orders, yet Romans 13 tells us to submitsubmit ourselves to gov

ourselves to governing authorities. erning authorities. Why was it OK fWhy was it OK for them to disobey? or them to disobey? When would it be When would it be OK for us?OK for us?

III.

III. ApplicationApplication

•

• God is faithful and sovereign. God is faithful and sovereign. Just as God’s soveJust as God’s sovereign hand was at work in Exodus reign hand was at work in Exodus to bring about theto bring about the

fulfillment of his promises, so too is his had at work today, working all things together for good (Rom 8:28) fulfillment of his promises, so too is his had at work today, working all things together for good (Rom 8:28)

•

• Moses’ family did what was righMoses’ family did what was right, even though it meant disobeying Pharaoh. t, even though it meant disobeying Pharaoh. Would you be willing to doWould you be willing to do

what is right, even

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God Sends Moses to Egypt

Exodus Chapters 3 & 4

I.

•

• Moses:Moses:

•

• God:God:

B.

•

• Exodus 2:23 tells us that there was a “long period” that occurred, yet we do not know exactly how longExodus 2:23 tells us that there was a “long period” that occurred, yet we do not know exactly how long

this period was, but t

this period was, but t he chronology of the passage appears to suggest that he chronology of the passage appears to suggest that the call of Moses occurredthe call of Moses occurred after his sons were born, since he took them and his wife with him at the start (4:20).

after his sons were born, since he took them and his wife with him at the start (4:20). C.

•

• Moses encounters God at Mt. Horeb, also known as Mt. Sinai, which was in the SW part of the SinaiMoses encounters God at Mt. Horeb, also known as Mt. Sinai, which was in the SW part of the Sinai

Peninsula (Ryrie).

Peninsula (Ryrie). The text tells us that Moses reThe text tells us that Moses returned to his father-in-law, Jethro, and then turned to his father-in-law, Jethro, and then set outset out with his family towards Egypt at the end of Chapter 4.

with his family towards Egypt at the end of Chapter 4. D.

•

• Moses was tending Jethro’s flocks near Mt. Horeb Moses was tending Jethro’s flocks near Mt. Horeb when the Lord appeared to him. when the Lord appeared to him. (3:1-2)(3:1-2) •

• The Lord appeared to Moses in flames from within a bush that was not consumed (3:2)The Lord appeared to Moses in flames from within a bush that was not consumed (3:2) •

• The Lord called to Moses from the bush and told him that he was the God of Abraham, Isaac, JacobThe Lord called to Moses from the bush and told him that he was the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob

and that he had heard the cries of his people in slavery in Egypt. (3:4-7) and that he had heard the cries of his people in slavery in Egypt. (3:4-7)

•

• The Lord told Moses that he was to go to Egypt to free the people as God’s messenger. (3:8-10)The Lord told Moses that he was to go to Egypt to free the people as God’s messenger. (3:8-10) •

• Moses resists God’s call, citing his Moses resists God’s call, citing his insignificance, but the Loinsignificance, but the Lo rd reassures him of success (3:11-12)rd reassures him of success (3:11-12) •

• Moses asks God whom he should say sent him and God says to tell them that “I AM” sent him to themMoses asks God whom he should say sent him and God says to tell them that “I AM” sent him to them

and that by this name

and that by this name God should be remembered from generation to God should be remembered from generation to generation (3:13-15)generation (3:13-15)

•

• The Lord instructs Moses to assemble the elders and tell them of God’s intent to fulfill his promise toThe Lord instructs Moses to assemble the elders and tell them of God’s intent to fulfill his promise to

Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob by delivering them to Canaan. (3:16-17) Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob by delivering them to Canaan. (3:16-17)

•

• They were then to ask Pharaoh to allow all the Hebrews to take a 3-day journey into the desert toThey were then to ask Pharaoh to allow all the Hebrews to take a 3-day journey into the desert to

worship, but Pharaoh would need God’s convincing to allow this. (3:18-20) worship, but Pharaoh would need God’s convincing to allow this. (3:18-20)

•

• The Lord would also compel the Egyptians to give the Israelites silver and gold (3:21-22)The Lord would also compel the Egyptians to give the Israelites silver and gold (3:21-22) •

• Moses asks God for a sign that Moses asks God for a sign that he was sent by God, so he was sent by God, so God causes Moses’ staff to turn into God causes Moses’ staff to turn into a snakea snake

when thrown on the ground and his hand leprous and restored upon putting it into his cloak. (4:1-7) when thrown on the ground and his hand leprous and restored upon putting it into his cloak. (4:1-7)

•

• The Lord says that if they don’t believe these signs, then Moses should pour some water from the NileThe Lord says that if they don’t believe these signs, then Moses should pour some water from the Nile

onto the ground and it would become blood. (4:8-9) onto the ground and it would become blood. (4:8-9)

•

• Moses tells God that he is not good at speaking and the Lord promises to help him, but Moses pleadsMoses tells God that he is not good at speaking and the Lord promises to help him, but Moses pleads

with the Lord to send someone else, and, although He was angry with Moses, God tells Moses that he with the Lord to send someone else, and, although He was angry with Moses, God tells Moses that he will send his brother, Aaron, with him to speak in his behalf. (4:10-17)

will send his brother, Aaron, with him to speak in his behalf. (4:10-17)

•

• Moses returns and asks Jethro to allow him to return to Egypt, so Moses departs for Egypt with hisMoses returns and asks Jethro to allow him to return to Egypt, so Moses departs for Egypt with his

wife and children and his staff in his hand. (4:18-20) wife and children and his staff in his hand. (4:18-20)

•

• The Lord instructs Moses further regarding matters in Egypt and foretells the killing of the EgyptianThe Lord instructs Moses further regarding matters in Egypt and foretells the killing of the Egyptian

firstborns in response to Pharaoh’s hardened heart and refusal to l

firstborns in response to Pharaoh’s hardened heart and refusal to l et his people go (4:21-23)et his people go (4:21-23)

•

• Along the way, the Lord is about to kill Moses, but his wife circumcises his son and the LordAlong the way, the Lord is about to kill Moses, but his wife circumcises his son and the Lord

withholds his wrath from Moses (4:24-26) withholds his wrath from Moses (4:24-26)

•

• The Lord sends Aaron to meet Moses and together they tell the Israelite elders what the Lord had saidThe Lord sends Aaron to meet Moses and together they tell the Israelite elders what the Lord had said

to them and performed the signs God had given them so that they all believed his words (4:27-31) to them and performed the signs God had given them so that they all believed his words (4:27-31) II.

B.

B. How is God involved in this passage? How is God involved in this passage? What do we learn What do we learn about God from the way he interacts w/Mosabout God from the way he interacts w/Moses?es?

C.

C. What were Moses’ objections and how is this similar to how we might respond to God’s direction to us?What were Moses’ objections and how is this similar to how we might respond to God’s direction to us?

III.

•

• God physically inserts himself into Moses’ life by appearing to him and speaking to him, yet Moses still resisted God’sGod physically inserts himself into Moses’ life by appearing to him and speaking to him, yet Moses still resisted God’s call.

call. Today, we may not have the Today, we may not have the audible voice of God instructing us, but we do audible voice of God instructing us, but we do have the inspired Word of God whichhave the inspired Word of God which carries the same authority

carries the same authority. . Does God’s written Word carry for us the same authority aDoes God’s written Word carry for us the same authority as his spoken Word? s his spoken Word? If not, thenIf not, then why?

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Moses and Aaron before Pharaoh

Exodus Chapters 5 & 6a

I.

•

• Moses:Moses:

•

• The Israelites:The Israelites:

B.

•

• The transitional word “afterward” which joiThe transitional word “afterward” which joi ns chapter 4 and 5 suggests that ns chapter 4 and 5 suggests that the events of this passagethe events of this passage

follow closely after the events of chapter 4.

follow closely after the events of chapter 4. There does not appear to be a break between the two.There does not appear to be a break between the two. C.

•

• The entirety of this passage takes place The entirety of this passage takes place in Egypt both in in Egypt both in Pharaoh’s presence and out in the work areas.Pharaoh’s presence and out in the work areas.

D.

•

• Moses and Aaron relay God’s word to Moses and Aaron relay God’s word to Pharaoh: “Let my people go…..” (5:1)Pharaoh: “Let my people go…..” (5:1) •

• Pharaoh refuses, so Moses and Aaron repeat God’s command along wiPharaoh refuses, so Moses and Aaron repeat God’s command along wi th consequences (5:2-3)th consequences (5:2-3) •

• Pharaoh refuses again and rebukes Moses and Aaron for distracting the Israelites Pharaoh refuses again and rebukes Moses and Aaron for distracting the Israelites from work (5:4-5)from work (5:4-5) •

• Pharaoh commands that the Israelites would have to gather their own straw for making bricks with noPharaoh commands that the Israelites would have to gather their own straw for making bricks with no

reduction in their daily quotas.

reduction in their daily quotas. The Israelite foremen werThe Israelite foremen were punished for low production (5:6-e punished for low production (5:6-14)14)

•

• The Israelite foremen appealed to Pharaoh regarding their unfair punishment, The Israelite foremen appealed to Pharaoh regarding their unfair punishment, i.e. requiring the samei.e. requiring the same

quotas while requiring them to gather their own straw, but Pharaoh ignored their pleas. (5:15-18) quotas while requiring them to gather their own straw, but Pharaoh ignored their pleas. (5:15-18)

•

• The Israelite foremen blamed Moses and Aaron for their situation, so Moses called out to the Lord onThe Israelite foremen blamed Moses and Aaron for their situation, so Moses called out to the Lord on

behalf of the people, wondering why he was sent to make their situation worse. (5:19-23) behalf of the people, wondering why he was sent to make their situation worse. (5:19-23)

•

• The Lord replied to Moses that The Lord replied to Moses that despite Pharaoh’s resistance, he would be made to despite Pharaoh’s resistance, he would be made to submit by the powersubmit by the power

of the Lord’s Mighty Hand. (6:1) of the Lord’s Mighty Hand. (6:1)

•

• The Lord confirms his promise: (6:2-5)The Lord confirms his promise: (6:2-5) •

• Who he wasWho he was: “The Lord,” which indicated a different relationship with the people than before.: “The Lord,” which indicated a different relationship with the people than before. •

• With Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, he was God Almighty, now he will be known as Lord.With Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, he was God Almighty, now he will be known as Lord. •

• The Covenant The Covenant : He had promised the peopl: He had promised the peopl e that they would possess the le that they would possess the l and of Canaan.and of Canaan. •

• He hears them He hears them: He has heard their : He has heard their groaning in suffering and remembers his covenant with groaning in suffering and remembers his covenant with them.them. •

• The Lord instructs Moses to tell the people of his Lordship, coming deliverance and demonstration of The Lord instructs Moses to tell the people of his Lordship, coming deliverance and demonstration of

his might so they might know that he is Lord.

his might so they might know that he is Lord. He will fulfill his promise to give them Canaan. (6:6-8)He will fulfill his promise to give them Canaan. (6:6-8)

•

• The Israelites didn’t listen to The Israelites didn’t listen to Moses because of their discouragement and cruel bondage (6:9)Moses because of their discouragement and cruel bondage (6:9) •

• The Lord tells Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites leave Egypt, but Moses replies inThe Lord tells Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites leave Egypt, but Moses replies in

discouragement that if his people won’t listen then Pharaoh wouldn’t either. (6:10-12) discouragement that if his people won’t listen then Pharaoh wouldn’t either. (6:10-12)

•

• The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron and commanded them to bring the Israelites out of Egypt (6:13)The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron and commanded them to bring the Israelites out of Egypt (6:13)

II.

B.

B. How is God involved in this passage? How is God involved in this passage? What is significant about being “Lord” What is significant about being “Lord” vs. being “God Almighty”?vs. being “God Almighty”?

C.

C. Discuss the parallels of God’s promise of redemption of the Israelites from the Egyptians with God’sDiscuss the parallels of God’s promise of redemption of the Israelites from the Egyptians with God’s promise of redemption of mankind from sin through Christ.

promise of redemption of mankind from sin through Christ.

III.

•

• Moses and Aaron were aware that Pharaoh’s heart would bMoses and Aaron were aware that Pharaoh’s heart would b e hardened and that he would e hardened and that he would not let the peoplenot let the people

go (4:21-23).

go (4:21-23). Further, in their Further, in their obedience, the people blamobedience, the people blamed them for ed them for their increased hatheir increased hardship. rdship. Based onBased on Moses’ prayer in

5:22-Moses’ prayer in 5:22-23, he was probably frus23, he was probably frustrated with God and the situation. trated with God and the situation. Yet when he approachesYet when he approaches God honestly and openly, God reveals

God honestly and openly, God reveals his purpose: that his might and lordship whis purpose: that his might and lordship would be demonstrated. ould be demonstrated. DoDo you find it easy to approach God open

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Moses & Aaron’s Second Visit to Pharaoh and

Moses & Aaron’s Second Visit to Pharaoh and 1

1 st

st

3 Plagues

Exodus 6:14-8:19

I.

A. Who are the main charWho are the main characters? acters? What do we know about them?What do we know about them?

•

• Moses:Moses:

•

B.

•

• The context does not suggest a The context does not suggest a break between passages, so we know that tbreak between passages, so we know that t his week’s passage occurs after Moses hashis week’s passage occurs after Moses has

arrived in Egypt and has m

arrived in Egypt and has met with the Elders. et with the Elders. He and Aaron have aHe and Aaron have already appeared before Phlready appeared before Pharaoh once (5:1). araoh once (5:1). We alsoWe also know that seven days passed between the

know that seven days passed between the 11ststand 2and 2ndndplagues.plagues. C.

•

• The entirety of this passage takes place iThe entirety of this passage takes place i n Egypt.n Egypt.

D.

•

• The writer (Moses) recounts the ancestry of the clans of The writer (Moses) recounts the ancestry of the clans of the Israelites, focusing on the tthe Israelites, focusing on the t ribe of Levi (6:14-25) [next pg]ribe of Levi (6:14-25) [next pg] •

• The writer (Moses) confirms the identity of Moses and The writer (Moses) confirms the identity of Moses and Aaron by connecting them to the Aaron by connecting them to the genealogy (6:26-27)genealogy (6:26-27) •

• God again tells Moses to relay is words to Pharaoh, but Moses resists, saying that Pharaoh would not listen d(6:28-30)God again tells Moses to relay is words to Pharaoh, but Moses resists, saying that Pharaoh would not listen d(6:28-30) •

• God tells Moses that he would be like God to Pharaoh & Aaron would be his prophet (7:1)God tells Moses that he would be like God to Pharaoh & Aaron would be his prophet (7:1) •

• God reminds Moses that Pharaoh’s heart will be hardened and that God will free his people by his hand and mighty actsGod reminds Moses that Pharaoh’s heart will be hardened and that God will free his people by his hand and mighty acts

of judgment. (7:2-5) of judgment. (7:2-5)

•

• Why? (v. 5) “And the Egyptians will know that I am Lord.”Why? (v. 5) “And the Egyptians will know that I am Lord.” •

• Moses and Aaron obey and go to Moses and Aaron obey and go to Pharaoh; Moses was 80 years old at tPharaoh; Moses was 80 years old at t his time and Aaron was 83 his time and Aaron was 83 years old (7:6-7)years old (7:6-7) •

• God prepares Moses for Pharaoh’s request for a miracle (7:8-9)God prepares Moses for Pharaoh’s request for a miracle (7:8-9) •

• Notice that it is Aaron’s staff that would become a snakeNotice that it is Aaron’s staff that would become a snake •

• Moses and Aaron went before Pharaoh and Aaron’s staff became a snake (7:10-13)Moses and Aaron went before Pharaoh and Aaron’s staff became a snake (7:10-13) •

• Pharaoh’s magicians did the same thing but Pharaoh’s magicians did the same thing but Aaron’s snake ate theirsAaron’s snake ate theirs •

• God instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh when he is at the Nile and tell him that the Lord will turn the Nile to blood becauseGod instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh when he is at the Nile and tell him that the Lord will turn the Nile to blood because

of his resistance to God’s command. (7:14-19) of his resistance to God’s command. (7:14-19)

•

• Moses and Aaron did what God said and God turned the Nile to blood but Pharaoh’s magicians did the same thing.Moses and Aaron did what God said and God turned the Nile to blood but Pharaoh’s magicians did the same thing.

Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened (7:20-24) Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened (7:20-24)

•

• Seven days later, the Lord instructed Seven days later, the Lord instructed Moses to go to Pharaoh again and Moses to go to Pharaoh again and warn him of the coming plawarn him of the coming pla gue of frogs if hegue of frogs if he

continued to refuse. (7:25-8:4) continued to refuse. (7:25-8:4)

•

• Moses told Aaron to stretch hiMoses told Aaron to stretch hi s hand over Egypt and frogs came up and s hand over Egypt and frogs came up and covered the land (8:5-7)covered the land (8:5-7) •

• Pharaoh asks Moses and Aaron to pray to the Lord to take away the frogs and he would let them go, but when the frogsPharaoh asks Moses and Aaron to pray to the Lord to take away the frogs and he would let them go, but when the frogs

were gone, Pharaoh refused to honor the agreement. (8:8-15) were gone, Pharaoh refused to honor the agreement. (8:8-15)

•

• The Lord told Moses to have Aaron strike the ground and the dust would become gnats. The Lord told Moses to have Aaron strike the ground and the dust would become gnats. They obeyed and the land wasThey obeyed and the land was

filled with gnats. (8:16-17) filled with gnats. (8:16-17)

•

• Pharaoh’s magicians were unable to copy this Pharaoh’s magicians were unable to copy this miracle themselves and acknowledged that it miracle themselves and acknowledged that it was “the finger of God”, butwas “the finger of God”, but

Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened and he still would not listen. (8:18-19) Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened and he still would not listen. (8:18-19)

II.

B.

B. How is God involved in this passage? How is God involved in this passage? Why do you think God began wWhy do you think God began with plagues that also affected his peith plagues that also affected his people?ople?

C.

C. Why do you think Moses is now doing all the talking? Why do you think Moses is now doing all the talking? How is Moses “like God” to Pharaoh and Aaron his prophet?How is Moses “like God” to Pharaoh and Aaron his prophet?

D.

D. Ryrie points out that the types of plaguRyrie points out that the types of plagues correspond with various ges correspond with various gods of the Egyptians. ods of the Egyptians. Discuss significance.Discuss significance.

III.

•

• Even though Pharaoh eventuEven though Pharaoh eventually acknowledges God’s existence and powerally acknowledges God’s existence and power, he still does not fear him. , he still does not fear him. This is not muchThis is not much

different than people today who claim to believe in God, but really don’t acknowledge his authority over them. different than people today who claim to believe in God, but really don’t acknowledge his authority over them.

•

• The Israelites endured these first plagues just as the Egyptians did. The Israelites endured these first plagues just as the Egyptians did. Do you think that there is evidence in the world of God’sDo you think that there is evidence in the world of God’s

people suffering for the consequences of the un

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Heads of the

Heads of the Israelite Families (Exodus 6:14-25)

Exodus 8:20-10:20

I.

I. ContextContext

•

• Who are the main charaWho are the main characters in this passage? cters in this passage? What do we know about them?What do we know about them? •

• Moses:Moses:

•

• When does this passage take place?When does this passage take place? •

• This passage is a continuation This passage is a continuation of the previous passage and there does not of the previous passage and there does not appear to be any contextual supportappear to be any contextual support

for a break in time between the 3

for a break in time between the 3rdrdplague (gnats) and the 4plague (gnats) and the 4ththplague (flies). plague (flies). Based on Chapter Based on Chapter 12, these ev12, these eventsents are occurring during the first month of t

are occurring during the first month of t he Hebrew calendar, which was during our he Hebrew calendar, which was during our months of March and April.months of March and April.

•

• Where does this passage take place?Where does this passage take place? •

• The entirety of this passage takes place in Egypt; however, there is a distinction made between the land of The entirety of this passage takes place in Egypt; however, there is a distinction made between the land of

Goshen, where the Israelites lived (the eastern section of the Nile delta [Ryrie, Gen. 45:10]), and the rest of Goshen, where the Israelites lived (the eastern section of the Nile delta [Ryrie, Gen. 45:10]), and the rest of Egypt, which was inhabited by the Egyptians.

Egypt, which was inhabited by the Egyptians.

•

• What is going on? (Summary oWhat is going on? (Summary o f Events)f Events) •

• The 4The 4ththPlague: Swarms of Flies (8:20-32)Plague: Swarms of Flies (8:20-32) •

• The Lord tells Moses to tell Pharaoh of the coming plague of flies that would cover Egypt except for theThe Lord tells Moses to tell Pharaoh of the coming plague of flies that would cover Egypt except for the

land of Goshen, where his people lived (8:20-23) land of Goshen, where his people lived (8:20-23)

•

• The Lord sent the plague upon Egypt the next day, just as he had warned Pharaoh (8:24)The Lord sent the plague upon Egypt the next day, just as he had warned Pharaoh (8:24) •

• Pharaoh tries to compromise with Moses by offering to allow them to offer sacrifices without leavingPharaoh tries to compromise with Moses by offering to allow them to offer sacrifices without leaving

Egypt, but Moses insisted on leaving Egypt. (8:25-27) Egypt, but Moses insisted on leaving Egypt. (8:25-27)

•

• Pharaoh agrees to let them go if Moses will pray for relief from the flies. (8:28)Pharaoh agrees to let them go if Moses will pray for relief from the flies. (8:28) •

• Moses prayed to the Lord and the flies Moses prayed to the Lord and the flies left, but Pharaoh went left, but Pharaoh went back on his offer (8:29-32)back on his offer (8:29-32) •

• The 5The 5ththPlague: Disease on Livestock in the Field (9:1-7)Plague: Disease on Livestock in the Field (9:1-7) •

• The Lord tells Moses to warn Pharaoh of the coming plague that would kill all the Egyptians’ livestock inThe Lord tells Moses to warn Pharaoh of the coming plague that would kill all the Egyptians’ livestock in

the fields, but not the livestock of the Israelites (9:1-4) the fields, but not the livestock of the Israelites (9:1-4)

•

• Since there is livestock in the next plague, those brought in from the field must have survived. (Ryrie)Since there is livestock in the next plague, those brought in from the field must have survived. (Ryrie) •

• The next day, the Lord sent the plague and all the livestock in the fields died, except for the Israelites’.The next day, the Lord sent the plague and all the livestock in the fields died, except for the Israelites’.

Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened and he would not let them go (9:5-7) Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened and he would not let them go (9:5-7)

•

• The 6The 6ththPlague: Boils on the Egyptians and their animals (9:8-12)Plague: Boils on the Egyptians and their animals (9:8-12) •

• The Lord tells Moses and Aaron tThe Lord tells Moses and Aaron t o toss handfuls of furnace soot into o toss handfuls of furnace soot into the air in Pharaoh’s presence and itthe air in Pharaoh’s presence and it

would become a dust over the whole land of Egypt, causing painful boils on all the Egyptians (9:8-9) would become a dust over the whole land of Egypt, causing painful boils on all the Egyptians (9:8-9)

•

• They obeyed and boils covered people and animals, They obeyed and boils covered people and animals, but Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened (9:10but Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened (9:10 -12)-12) •

• The 7The 7ththPlague: Massive Hail Storm throughout Egypt (9:13-35)Plague: Massive Hail Storm throughout Egypt (9:13-35) •

• The Lord tells Moses that if he failed to let the Israelites go this time, then the Lord would send the “fullThe Lord tells Moses that if he failed to let the Israelites go this time, then the Lord would send the “full

force” of his plagues so that they would no there was none like the Lord in the earth (9:13-14) force” of his plagues so that they would no there was none like the Lord in the earth (9:13-14)

•

• The Lord (through Moses) reminds Pharaoh that he could have The Lord (through Moses) reminds Pharaoh that he could have wiped the Egyptians from the wiped the Egyptians from the earth, but heearth, but he

didn’t so that the Lord’s power to be known throughout the earth and his name proclaimed (9:15-19) didn’t so that the Lord’s power to be known throughout the earth and his name proclaimed (9:15-19)

•

• The Lord sent a violent hailstorm that destroyed all of Egypt, but left Goshen intact (9:20-26)The Lord sent a violent hailstorm that destroyed all of Egypt, but left Goshen intact (9:20-26) •

• Pharaoh calls Moses and Aaron and “admits” his Pharaoh calls Moses and Aaron and “admits” his sin and offers to let sin and offers to let the people go and worship the the people go and worship the Lord if Lord if

Moses would pray

Moses would pray for the hail to for the hail to stop. stop. (9:27-32)(9:27-32)

•

• When Moses does pray, Pharaoh again goes back on his When Moses does pray, Pharaoh again goes back on his word and did not allow tword and did not allow t hem to leave (9:33-35)hem to leave (9:33-35) •

• The 8The 8ththPlague: Swarms of Locusts (10:1-20)Plague: Swarms of Locusts (10:1-20) •

• The Lord tells Moses to The Lord tells Moses to warn Pharaoh of the coming plague of warn Pharaoh of the coming plague of locust because of his refusal to locust because of his refusal to humblehumble

himself

himself before the Lord and for before the Lord and for not letting his people go as the Lord commnot letting his people go as the Lord commanded (10:1-6)anded (10:1-6)

•

• Pharaoh’s officials began to reason with him, pleading with him to concede (10:7)Pharaoh’s officials began to reason with him, pleading with him to concede (10:7) •

• Pharaoh ask Moses who would be leaving, but Pharaoh ask Moses who would be leaving, but when Moses replied “everyone,” Pharaoh accused Moses of when Moses replied “everyone,” Pharaoh accused Moses of

being “bent on evil”, saying that only the men should be allowed to leave (10:8-11) being “bent on evil”, saying that only the men should be allowed to leave (10:8-11)

•

• Moses stretched out his hand over Egypt and an east wind blew all day and night, bringing with it swarmsMoses stretched out his hand over Egypt and an east wind blew all day and night, bringing with it swarms

of locusts that devoured all remaining crops and fruit left from the hail, and the land was barren (10:12-15) of locusts that devoured all remaining crops and fruit left from the hail, and the land was barren (10:12-15)

•

• Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and asked them to Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and asked them to pray for relief from the locusts (10:16-17)pray for relief from the locusts (10:16-17) •

(7)

II.

II. InterpretationInterpretation

•

• What principles are illustrated in this passageWhat principles are illustrated in this passage? ? What would you consider the What would you consider the theme of this passage?theme of this passage?

•

• How is God involved in this passage? How is God involved in this passage? Is he in the foreIs he in the foreground or background? ground or background? What do we learn of What do we learn of his character?his character?

•

• The plagues not only demonstrate The plagues not only demonstrate God’s sovereignty over Pharaoh, the Egyptians, the Israelites, God’s sovereignty over Pharaoh, the Egyptians, the Israelites, and nature, butand nature, but

also, as Ryrie points out, over the g

also, as Ryrie points out, over the gods of the Egyptians. ods of the Egyptians. Examine the following chart, adapted from the Examine the following chart, adapted from the RyrieRyrie Study Bible: How does this view of the plagues illustrate congruency in God’s character? (

Study Bible: How does this view of the plagues illustrate congruency in God’s character? (Hint: 10 CommandmentsHint: 10 Commandments))

Order

Order Plague Plague Scripture Scripture Affected? Affected? Announced? Announced? Egyptian Egyptian gods gods involved involved (Ryrie) (Ryrie) Replicated?Replicated? 1

1stst Nile Nile River River turned turned to to Blood Blood 7:14-24 7:14-24 Everyone Everyone YESYES Hapi: spirit of the NileHapi: spirit of the Nile Khnum: guardian of the Nile

Khnum: guardian of the Nile YESYES 2

2ndnd Frogs Frogs 7:25-8:15 7:25-8:15 Everyone Everyone YESYES Heqt: form of a frogHeqt: form of a frog Hapi: spirit of the Nile

Hapi: spirit of the Nile YESYES 3

3rdrd Swarms Swarms of of Gnats/Lice Gnats/Lice 8:16-19 8:16-19 Everyone Everyone NONO Uncertain; perhaps an attack on theUncertain; perhaps an attack on the Egyptian priests

Egyptian priests NONO 4

4thth Swarms Swarms of of Flies Flies 8:20-32 8:20-32 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Uatchit: a god who manifestedUatchit: a god who manifested himself as a fly

himself as a fly NONO 5

5thth Disease Disease of of the the Livestock Livestock 9:1-7 9:1-7 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Apis bill revered. Apis bill revered. Sacred bulls Sacred bulls andand cows Ptah, Mnrvis, Hathor

cows Ptah, Mnrvis, Hathor NONO 6

6thth Boils Boils 9:8-12 9:8-12 Egyptians Egyptians NONO Sekhmet: goddess with power to healSekhmet: goddess with power to heal Serapis: healing god

Serapis: healing god NONO 7

7thth Hailstorm Hailstorm 9:13-35 9:13-35 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Seth: protector of cropsSeth: protector of crops Nut: sky goddess

Nut: sky goddess NONO 8

8thth Locusts Locusts 10:1-20 10:1-20 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Isis: goddess of lifeIsis: goddess of life Seth: protector of crops

Seth: protector of crops NONO

•

• Why do you think that God allowed the Israelites to be affected by the earlier plagues, but not by the later ones?Why do you think that God allowed the Israelites to be affected by the earlier plagues, but not by the later ones?

•

• What is the reaWhat is the real issue between God l issue between God and Pharaoh? and Pharaoh? What is God teacWhat is God teaching Pharaoh hing Pharaoh though this? though this? Why?Why?

•

• What changes in Moses What changes in Moses have you noticed so far? have you noticed so far? How do you think these chanHow do you think these changes came about?ges came about?

III.

•

• God is demonstrating both his sovereignty over all things, natural and supernatural, as well as his faithfulness to hisGod is demonstrating both his sovereignty over all things, natural and supernatural, as well as his faithfulness to his

people.

people. As heirs to this relationship through ChAs heirs to this relationship through Christ, we also can rest in God’s srist, we also can rest in God’s sovereignty over our world, includingovereignty over our world, including our negative circumstances, as well as

our negative circumstances, as well as his faithfulness to us as hihis faithfulness to us as hi s children to never leave us nor s children to never leave us nor forsake us.forsake us.

•

• Sometimes God’s people are affSometimes God’s people are affected by his judgment of the wicked. ected by his judgment of the wicked. How should this affect our attitude when weHow should this affect our attitude when we

face challenges not of our own doing? face challenges not of our own doing?

•

• Throughout scripture, God chooses ordinaThroughout scripture, God chooses ordinary, and often weak, people to accomry, and often weak, people to accomplish his will. plish his will. Are you walking inAre you walking in

obedience to what God has set before you?

(8)

Plagues III: Darkness and Death of Firstborn

Exodus 10:21-12:36

I.

I. ContextContext

•

• Who are the main charaWho are the main characters in this passage? cters in this passage? What do we know about them?What do we know about them? •

• Moses:Moses:

•

• When does this passage take place?When does this passage take place? •

• The passage begins three days before Passover, which was on tThe passage begins three days before Passover, which was on t he 14he 14ththday of Abib/Nisan, and ends the next dayday of Abib/Nisan, and ends the next day

as the people are urg

as the people are urged to leave in haste. ed to leave in haste. Also mentioned is the Feast of Unleavened BreaAlso mentioned is the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which lasted fromd, which lasted from the evening of the 14

the evening of the 14ththday through the evening of the 21day through the evening of the 21ststday. day. Abib/Nisan corresponds wAbib/Nisan corresponds with the later part of ith the later part of March and the first part of April on our calendar, basically the same time of year as it is now.

March and the first part of April on our calendar, basically the same time of year as it is now.

•

• Where does this passage take place?Where does this passage take place? •

• The entirety of this passage takes place in Egypt; however, there is a distinction made between the land of The entirety of this passage takes place in Egypt; however, there is a distinction made between the land of

Goshen, where the Israelites lived (the eastern section of the Nile delta [Ryrie, Gen. 45:10]), and the rest of Goshen, where the Israelites lived (the eastern section of the Nile delta [Ryrie, Gen. 45:10]), and the rest of Egypt, which was inhabited by the Egyptians.

Egypt, which was inhabited by the Egyptians.

•

• What is going on? What is going on? (Summary of Events)(Summary of Events) •

• The Lord told Moses to The Lord told Moses to stretch his hand to the sky, stretch his hand to the sky, and when he did, darkness covered Egypt and when he did, darkness covered Egypt for three days,for three days,

except for the places where the Israelites li

except for the places where the Israelites li ved (10:21-23)ved (10:21-23)

•

• Pharaoh told Moses that they could leave to worship, but they must leave their livestock and herds (10:23)Pharaoh told Moses that they could leave to worship, but they must leave their livestock and herds (10:23) •

• Moses refused to leave with the Moses refused to leave with the animals because the would be animals because the would be needed for worshipping God (10:24-26)needed for worshipping God (10:24-26) •

• Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and he told Moses to Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and he told Moses to leave his presence and not to coleave his presence and not to co me back or else Mosesme back or else Moses

would be put to death.

would be put to death. Moses tells Pharaoh he wMoses tells Pharaoh he would not appear before him agould not appear before him again (10:27-29)ain (10:27-29)

•

• Previously, the Lord had told Moses that Pharaoh would let them leave after one final plague and that thePreviously, the Lord had told Moses that Pharaoh would let them leave after one final plague and that the

Israelites should ask their Egyptian neighbors for articles

Israelites should ask their Egyptian neighbors for articles of silver and gold as tof silver and gold as t hey left (11:1-3)hey left (11:1-3)

•

• Before leaving Pharaoh’s presence, Moses warns Pharaoh of the 10Before leaving Pharaoh’s presence, Moses warns Pharaoh of the 10ththand final plague, the death of all Egyptianand final plague, the death of all Egyptian

firstborn and firstborn of the cattle, and that the Israelites would be spared of this plague (11:4-7) firstborn and firstborn of the cattle, and that the Israelites would be spared of this plague (11:4-7)

•

• Moses tells Pharaoh that this final plague would be so bad that they would be begging the Israelites to leave andMoses tells Pharaoh that this final plague would be so bad that they would be begging the Israelites to leave and

then Moses left Pharaoh’s presence. (11:8) then Moses left Pharaoh’s presence. (11:8)

•

• The Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on the The Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on the specifics of observing the ordinance of Passover (12:1-13)specifics of observing the ordinance of Passover (12:1-13) •

• On the tenth day of the first month, each household was to select a lamb (12:1-3)On the tenth day of the first month, each household was to select a lamb (12:1-3) •

• Must be year-old males, without defect, Must be year-old males, without defect, from either sheep or goats (12:4-5)from either sheep or goats (12:4-5) •

• Small families could share a lamb with their nearest neighbor (12:4)Small families could share a lamb with their nearest neighbor (12:4) •

• The lamb was to be taken care of until it was slaughtered at twilight on the 14The lamb was to be taken care of until it was slaughtered at twilight on the 14ththday (12:6)day (12:6) •

• Once slaughtered, each family was to take some of the lamb’s blood and mark the sides and topsOnce slaughtered, each family was to take some of the lamb’s blood and mark the sides and tops

of the doorframes of the houses (12:7) of the doorframes of the houses (12:7)

•

• That night, they were to roast the lamb over fire and eat or burn all of it by morning (12:8-10)That night, they were to roast the lamb over fire and eat or burn all of it by morning (12:8-10) •

• They were to eat it with cloak tucked into belt, wearing sandals, and holding their staff (12:11)They were to eat it with cloak tucked into belt, wearing sandals, and holding their staff (12:11) •

• The Lord tells of how He would pass through Egypt that night and kill all firstborns except for in the housesThe Lord tells of how He would pass through Egypt that night and kill all firstborns except for in the houses

that had been marked with the lamb’s blood. (12:12-13) that had been marked with the lamb’s blood. (12:12-13)

•

• The Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on observing tThe Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on observing t he Feast of Unleavened Bread (12:14-20)he Feast of Unleavened Bread (12:14-20) •

• Anyone who ate anything with yeast during this time must be cut off from the people (12:15, 19)Anyone who ate anything with yeast during this time must be cut off from the people (12:15, 19) •

• Moses called together the elders of Israel and told them what God had said (12:21-23)Moses called together the elders of Israel and told them what God had said (12:21-23) •

• Passover & the Feast of Unleavened Bread are Passover & the Feast of Unleavened Bread are instituted as lasting ordinances for Israel (12:24-28)instituted as lasting ordinances for Israel (12:24-28) •

• At midnight, the Lord struck down every firstborn in Egypt, even Pharaoh’s, and livestock (12:29-30)At midnight, the Lord struck down every firstborn in Egypt, even Pharaoh’s, and livestock (12:29-30) •

• Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and commanded them and Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and commanded them and the Israelites to leave (12:31the Israelites to leave (12:31 -32)-32) •

• The Egyptians urged the Israelites to hurry in their leaving and gave them articles of silver and gold as MosesThe Egyptians urged the Israelites to hurry in their leaving and gave them articles of silver and gold as Moses

had told the people to ask their neighbors for, thus they plundered the Egyptians (12:33-36) had told the people to ask their neighbors for, thus they plundered the Egyptians (12:33-36)

(9)

II.

•

• What is significant abouWhat is significant about studying Passover t studying Passover today on Easter? today on Easter? What parallels do What parallels do you see? you see? Was this intentional?Was this intentional?

o

o Selection of the lamb:Selection of the lamb:

o

o Fate of the Lamb:Fate of the Lamb:

o

o The Role of the Blood:The Role of the Blood:

III.

•

• In many ways, the story of God rescuing the Israelites from slavery to the Egyptians is similar to God rescuingIn many ways, the story of God rescuing the Israelites from slavery to the Egyptians is similar to God rescuing

mankind from slavery to sin.

mankind from slavery to sin. One clear truth is that God loves his people.One clear truth is that God loves his people. “But God demonstrates his own love for “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still si

us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” nners, Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8 (NIV)Rom. 5:8 (NIV)

•

• Christ is our “Passover Christ is our “Passover lamb” in that it was through his blood that God’s wrath “lamb” in that it was through his blood that God’s wrath “passes over” us. passes over” us. He lived the lifeHe lived the life

we could not live and died the death w

we could not live and died the death we should have died to pay e should have died to pay the price we could not pay. the price we could not pay. God demandsGod demands perfection and only Christ is worthy to be the perfect sacrifice that God demands as payment for sin. perfection and only Christ is worthy to be the perfect sacrifice that God demands as payment for sin.

•

• Do you take your enslavemenDo you take your enslavement to sin seriously? t to sin seriously? The Israelites cried out for The Israelites cried out for deliverance from their Egyptiandeliverance from their Egyptian

captivity, yet sometimes because our slavery is not as overt, we don’t realize the reality that we are, indeed, slaves to captivity, yet sometimes because our slavery is not as overt, we don’t realize the reality that we are, indeed, slaves to sin.

sin. Would you yearn for deliveWould you yearn for deliverance differently if your erance differently if your enslavement was harder to overlook?nslavement was harder to overlook?

Based up the table, “The Ten Plagues,” taken

Based up the table, “The Ten Plagues,” taken from the Ryrie Study Bible (NIV), pg. 100.from the Ryrie Study Bible (NIV), pg. 100. Order

Order Plague Plague Scripture Scripture Affected? Affected? Announced? Announced? Egyptian Egyptian gods gods involved involved (Ryrie) (Ryrie) Replicated?Replicated? 1

1stst Nile Nile River River turned turned to to Blood Blood 7:14-24 7:14-24 Everyone Everyone YESYES Hapi: spirit of the NileHapi: spirit of the Nile Khnum: guardian of the Nile

Khnum: guardian of the Nile YESYES 2

2ndnd Frogs Frogs 7:25-8:15 7:25-8:15 Everyone Everyone YESYES Heqt: form of a frogHeqt: form of a frog Hapi: spirit of the Nile

Hapi: spirit of the Nile YESYES 3

3rdrd Swarms Swarms of of Gnats/Lice Gnats/Lice 8:16-19 8:16-19 Everyone Everyone NONO Uncertain; perhaps an attack on theUncertain; perhaps an attack on the Egyptian priests

Egyptian priests NONO 4

4thth Swarms Swarms of of Flies Flies 8:20-32 8:20-32 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Uatchit: a god who manifestedUatchit: a god who manifested himself as a fly

himself as a fly NONO 5

5thth Disease Disease of of the the Livestock Livestock 9:1-7 9:1-7 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Apis bill revered. Apis bill revered. Sacred bulls Sacred bulls andand cows Ptah, Mnrvis, Hathor

cows Ptah, Mnrvis, Hathor NONO 6

6thth Boils Boils 9:8-12 9:8-12 Egyptians Egyptians NONO Sekhmet: goddess with power to healSekhmet: goddess with power to heal Serapis: healing god

Serapis: healing god NONO 7

7thth Hailstorm Hailstorm 9:13-35 9:13-35 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Seth: protector of cropsSeth: protector of crops Nut: sky goddess

Nut: sky goddess NONO 8

8thth Locusts Locusts 10:1-20 10:1-20 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Isis: goddess of lifeIsis: goddess of life Seth: protector of crops

Seth: protector of crops NONO 9

9thth Darkness Darkness 10:21-29 10:21-29 Egyptians Egyptians NONO Re: the sun godRe: the sun god

Atum: god of setting sun

Atum: god of setting sun NONO 10

10thth Death of the FirstbornDeath of the Firstborn 11:1-12:3611:1-12:36 Egyptians Egyptians YESYES Osiris: giver of lifeOsiris: giver of life

Pharaoh was also considered deity

(10)

The Exodus Begins

Exodus 12:36-13:22

I.

I. ContextContext

•

• Who are the main charaWho are the main characters in this passage? cters in this passage? What do we know about them?What do we know about them?

•

• Moses:Moses:

•

• When does this passage take place?When does this passage take place?

•

• The passage takes place The passage takes place immediately following Passover. immediately following Passover. Also mentioned is the Feast of UnleavenAlso mentioned is the Feast of Unleavened Bread,ed Bread,

which lasted from the evening of the 14

which lasted from the evening of the 14ththday through the evening of the 21day through the evening of the 21ststday. day. Abib/Nisan cAbib/Nisan corresponds orresponds withwith the later part of March and the first part of April on our calendar, basically the same time of year as it is now. the later part of March and the first part of April on our calendar, basically the same time of year as it is now.

•

• Where does this passage take place?Where does this passage take place?

•

• At the onset of the passageAt the onset of the passage, the Israelites leave Goshen and , the Israelites leave Goshen and travel from Rameses to Succoth (12:37). travel from Rameses to Succoth (12:37). AfterAfter

leaving Succoth, they traveled to Etham and camped there, which is where the passage ends. leaving Succoth, they traveled to Etham and camped there, which is where the passage ends.

•

• What is going on? (Summary oWhat is going on? (Summary o f Events)f Events)

After God struck down all t

After God struck down all t he firstborn of Egypt, including Phe firstborn of Egypt, including P haraoh’s son, Pharaoh finally releases Mosesharaoh’s son, Pharaoh finally releases Moses and the Israelites from their bondag

and the Israelites from their bondage and allows them to leave. e and allows them to leave. After plundering the Egyptians (sAfter plundering the Egyptians (see 12:36), they setee 12:36), they set out from Rameses and trave

out from Rameses and traveled to Succoth, 600,000 men along with women, children and liveled to Succoth, 600,000 men along with women, children and livestock. stock. God reiteratesGod reiterates the regulations for Passover with Moses and

the regulations for Passover with Moses and Aaron, telling them specifically Aaron, telling them specifically how the Passover was to be how the Passover was to be observedobserved as well as wh

as well as who was and was o was and was not allowed to participate. not allowed to participate. (12:37-50)(12:37-50) The Lord told Moses that t

The Lord told Moses that t he firstborn males of both man and he firstborn males of both man and beast were to be consecrated—that is, setbeast were to be consecrated—that is, set apart—for him.

apart—for him. Moses related this information to the people as wMoses related this information to the people as well as gave instruction on observing ell as gave instruction on observing the Feast of the Feast of Unleavened Bread and of the importance of re

Unleavened Bread and of the importance of re membering what the Lord had done membering what the Lord had done for them that day (13:1-16)for them that day (13:1-16) The Lord led the Israelites south through the desert toward the Red Sea, even though it would have been a The Lord led the Israelites south through the desert toward the Red Sea, even though it would have been a more direct route to Canaan to travel east along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

more direct route to Canaan to travel east along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Apparently there was the threatApparently there was the threat of attack from the Philistines and/or others that lived in that area, plus, as we will see later, God had plans to meet of attack from the Philistines and/or others that lived in that area, plus, as we will see later, God had plans to meet them at Sinai, which was in the southern part of

them at Sinai, which was in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula. the Sinai Peninsula. They took Joseph’s They took Joseph’s bones with them, as he hadbones with them, as he had made his sons promise at his

made his sons promise at his death. death. They traveled from Succoth to Etham They traveled from Succoth to Etham and the Lord led them by a and the Lord led them by a pillar of cloudpillar of cloud during the day and by a pillar of fire at night. (13:17-22)

during the day and by a pillar of fire at night. (13:17-22)

II.

•

• How does this passage point us toward or connect with Christ?How does this passage point us toward or connect with Christ?

•

• Why do you think God Why do you think God gave such specific instructions regarding the Passover regulations, gave such specific instructions regarding the Passover regulations, the Feast of Unleavenedthe Feast of Unleavened

Bread, and the consecration of all

Bread, and the consecration of all firstborn males?firstborn males?

III.

•

• God gave very specific instructions to God gave very specific instructions to the Israelites regarding how he was to the Israelites regarding how he was to be worshipped during Passover.be worshipped during Passover.

Throughout scripture, God is very

Throughout scripture, God is very clear about how his people are to aclear about how his people are to approach him. pproach him. We must remember, especiallyWe must remember, especially in our “me” focused society, that we come to God on his terms, not ours.

in our “me” focused society, that we come to God on his terms, not ours.

•

• The Lord doesn’t always lead us on the easy path. The Lord doesn’t always lead us on the easy path. He could have very easily led the Israelites due east from GoshenHe could have very easily led the Israelites due east from Goshen

and they may have reached Canaan much sooner, but he chose, instead, to lead them on a more difficult and trying and they may have reached Canaan much sooner, but he chose, instead, to lead them on a more difficult and trying route.

route. This harder route served to prepare the Israelites and refThis harder route served to prepare the Israelites and refine their faith in God, just as our challenges serve toine their faith in God, just as our challenges serve to sanctify us daily, giving us the opportunity and privilege of growing to be more like Christ if we suffer well. sanctify us daily, giving us the opportunity and privilege of growing to be more like Christ if we suffer well.