exodus (complete outlines)

Introduction to Exodus: From Joseph to Moses Exodus Chapters 1 & 2

I. Context

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

• Pharaoh:

• Moses’ Mother:

• Pharaoh’s Daughter:

• Moses:

B. When does this passage take place?

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

supports the belief that the exodus took place around 1440 B.C. Further, Ryrie estimates that

approximately 200 years passed between Joseph’s generation and the people’s deliverance from Egypt.

Exodus 1:6 tells us that all of Joseph’s generation had already died and the Israelites’ population had

exploded when Pharaoh began to institute population control over them. The first half of Exodus 2

covers approximately 40 years because Acts 7:23 tells us that Moses was 40 years old when he killed

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

C. 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 on

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

D. What is happening? (Summary of Events)

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

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

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

• The Israelites continued to increase in number, so the Egyptians worked them even harder. (1:12-14)

• In 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)

• 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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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

II. Interpretation

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

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

C. The Hebrew Midwives and Moses’ family disobeyed Pharaoh’s orders, yet Romans 13 tells us to submit

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

III. Application

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

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 right, even though it meant disobeying Pharaoh. Would you be willing to do

what is right, even if it meant severe or dire consequences for yourself?

God Sends Moses to Egypt Exodus Chapters 3 & 4

I. Context


• Moses:

• God:


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

this period was, but the chronology of the passage appears to suggest that the call of Moses occurred

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


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

Peninsula (Ryrie). The text tells us that Moses returned to his father-in-law, Jethro, and then set out

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


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

• 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, Jacob

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)

• Moses resists God’s call, citing his insignificance, but the Lord 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 them

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

• The 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)

• They 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)

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

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

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 Nile

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 pleads

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)

• Moses 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)

• The 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 let his people go (4:21-23)

• Along 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)

• The 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)

II. Interpretation


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

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

III. Application

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

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

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

why?

Moses and Aaron before Pharaoh Exodus Chapters 5 & 6a

I. Context


• Moses:

• Pharaoh:

• The Israelites:


• The transitional word “afterward” which joins chapter 4 and 5 suggests that the events of this passage

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


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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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 on

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

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

of the Lord’s Mighty Hand. (6:1)

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

• Who he was: “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.

• The Covenant: He had promised the people that they would possess the land of Canaan.

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

• 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. He will fulfill his promise to give them Canaan. (6:6-8)

• The Israelites didn’t listen to 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 in

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)

II. Interpretation


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

C. Discuss 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.

III. Application

• Moses and Aaron were aware that Pharaoh’s heart would be hardened and that he would not let the people

go (4:21-23). Further, in their obedience, the people blamed them for their increased hardship. Based on

Moses’ prayer in 5:22-23, he was probably frustrated with God and the situation. Yet when he approaches

God honestly and openly, God reveals his purpose: that his might and lordship would be demonstrated. Do

you find it easy to approach God openly and honestly with your frustrations? Why or why not?

Moses & Aaron’s Second Visit to Pharaoh and 1st 3 Plagues Exodus 6:14-8:19

I. Context


• Moses:

• Pharaoh:


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

arrived in Egypt and has met with the Elders. He and Aaron have already appeared before Pharaoh once (5:1). We also

know that seven days passed between the 1st and 2

nd plagues.


• The entirety of this passage takes place in Egypt.


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

• The writer (Moses) confirms the identity of Moses and Aaron by connecting them to the 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 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 acts

of judgment. (7:2-5)

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

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

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

• Notice 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)

• Pharaoh’s magicians did the same thing but Aaron’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 because

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.

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

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

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

• Moses told Aaron to stretch his hand over Egypt and frogs came up and 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 frogs

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. They obeyed and the land was

filled with gnats. (8:16-17)

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

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

II. Interpretation


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

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

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

III. Application

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

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. Do you think that there is evidence in the world of God’s

people suffering for the consequences of the unrighteous? What are some examples you could think of?

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

• Reuben

o Hanoch

o Pallu

o Hezron

o Carmi

• Simeon

o Jemuel

o Jamin

o Ohad

o Jakin

o Zohar

o Shaul (son of a Canaanite woman)

• Levi

o Gershon

� Libni

� Shimei

o Kohath

� Amram

• Aaron

o Nadab

o Abihu

o Eleazar (married a daughter of Patiel)

� Phinehas

o Ithamar

• Moses

� Izhar

• Korah

o Assir

o Elkanah

o Abiasaph

• Nepheg

• Zicri

� Hebron

� Uzziel

• Mishael

• Elzaphan

• Sithri

o Merari

� Mahali

� Mushi

Plagues II: From Flies to Locusts Exodus 8:20-10:20

I. Context

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

• Moses:

• Pharaoh:

• When does this passage take place?

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

for a break in time between the 3rd

plague (gnats) and the 4th

plague (flies). Based on Chapter 12, these events

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

• 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

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.

• What is going on? (Summary of Events)

• The 4th

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 the

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)

• Pharaoh 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)

• 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 left, but Pharaoh went back on his offer (8:29-32)

• The 5th

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 in

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)

• 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)

• The 6th

Plague: Boils on the Egyptians and their animals (9:8-12)

• The Lord tells Moses and Aaron to toss handfuls of furnace soot into the 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)

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

• The 7th

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 “full

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 wiped the Egyptians from the earth, but he

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)

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

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

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

• The 8th

Plague: Swarms of Locusts (10:1-20)

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

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

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

• Pharaoh ask Moses who would be leaving, but 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)

• Moses 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)

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

• Moses prayed and a west wind carried off the locusts, but Pharaoh’s heart remained unchanged (10:18-20)

II. Interpretation

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

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

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

also, as Ryrie points out, over the gods of the Egyptians. Examine the following chart, adapted from the Ryrie

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

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

1st Nile River turned to Blood 7:14-24 Everyone YES

Hapi: spirit of the Nile

Khnum: guardian of the Nile YES

2nd

Frogs 7:25-8:15 Everyone YES Heqt: form of a frog

Hapi: spirit of the Nile YES

3rd

Swarms of Gnats/Lice 8:16-19 Everyone NO Uncertain; perhaps an attack on the

Egyptian priests NO

4th

Swarms of Flies 8:20-32 Egyptians YES Uatchit: a god who manifested

himself as a fly NO

5th

Disease of the Livestock 9:1-7 Egyptians YES Apis bill revered. Sacred bulls and

cows Ptah, Mnrvis, Hathor NO

6th

Boils 9:8-12 Egyptians NO Sekhmet: goddess with power to heal

Serapis: healing god NO

7th

Hailstorm 9:13-35 Egyptians YES Seth: protector of crops

Nut: sky goddess NO

8th

Locusts 10:1-20 Egyptians YES Isis: goddess of life

Seth: protector of crops NO

• 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 real issue between God and Pharaoh? What is God teaching Pharaoh though this? Why?

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

III. Application

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

people. As heirs to this relationship through Christ, we also can rest in God’s sovereignty over our world, including

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

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

face challenges not of our own doing?

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

obedience to what God has set before you? Are you allowing him to do in you and through you all that he desires?

Plagues III: Darkness and Death of Firstborn Exodus 10:21-12:36

I. Context


• Moses:

• Pharaoh:


• The passage begins three days before Passover, which was on the 14th

day of Abib/Nisan, and ends the next day

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

the evening of the 14th

day through the evening of the 21st day. Abib/Nisan corresponds with 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 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

Egypt, which was inhabited by the Egyptians.


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

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

• 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 animals because the would be needed for worshipping God (10:24-26)

• Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and he told Moses to leave his presence and not to come back or else Moses

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

• Previously, 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 of silver and gold as they left (11:1-3)

• Before leaving Pharaoh’s presence, Moses warns Pharaoh of the 10th

and 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)

• Moses 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)

• The Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on the 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)

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

• 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 14th

day (12:6)

• Once 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)

• 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)

• The 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)

• The Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on observing the 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)

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

• Passover & the Feast of Unleavened Bread are 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)

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

• The 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)

II. Interpretation



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

o Selection of the lamb:

o Fate of the Lamb:

o The Role of the Blood:

III. Application

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

mankind from slavery to sin. One clear truth is that God loves his people. “But God demonstrates his own love for

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

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

we could not live and died the death we should have died to pay the price we could not pay. God demands

perfection and only Christ is worthy to be the perfect sacrifice that God demands as payment for sin.

• Do you take your enslavement to sin seriously? The Israelites cried out for deliverance 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

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

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

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

1st Nile River turned to Blood 7:14-24 Everyone YES

Hapi: spirit of the Nile

Khnum: guardian of the Nile YES

2nd

Frogs 7:25-8:15 Everyone YES Heqt: form of a frog

Hapi: spirit of the Nile YES

3rd

Swarms of Gnats/Lice 8:16-19 Everyone NO Uncertain; perhaps an attack on the

Egyptian priests NO

4th

Swarms of Flies 8:20-32 Egyptians YES Uatchit: a god who manifested

himself as a fly NO

5th

Disease of the Livestock 9:1-7 Egyptians YES Apis bill revered. Sacred bulls and

cows Ptah, Mnrvis, Hathor NO

6th

Boils 9:8-12 Egyptians NO Sekhmet: goddess with power to heal

Serapis: healing god NO

7th

Hailstorm 9:13-35 Egyptians YES Seth: protector of crops

Nut: sky goddess NO

8th

Locusts 10:1-20 Egyptians YES Isis: goddess of life

Seth: protector of crops NO

9th

Darkness 10:21-29 Egyptians NO Re: the sun god

Atum: god of setting sun NO

10th

Death of the Firstborn 11:1-12:36 Egyptians YES Osiris: giver of life

Pharaoh was also considered deity NO

The Exodus Begins Exodus 12:36-13:22

I. Context


• Moses:


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

which lasted from the evening of the 14th

day through the evening of the 21st day. Abib/Nisan corresponds with

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


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

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


After God struck down all the firstborn of Egypt, including Pharaoh’s son, Pharaoh finally releases Moses

and the Israelites from their bondage and allows them to leave. After plundering the Egyptians (see 12:36), they set

out from Rameses and traveled to Succoth, 600,000 men along with women, children and livestock. God reiterates

the regulations for Passover with Moses and Aaron, telling them specifically how the Passover was to be observed

as well as who was and was not allowed to participate. (12:37-50)

The Lord told Moses that the firstborn males of both man and beast were to be consecrated—that is, set

apart—for him. Moses related this information to the people as well as gave instruction on observing the Feast of

Unleavened Bread and of the importance of remembering what the Lord had done 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

more direct route to Canaan to travel east along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Apparently 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

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

made his sons promise at his death. They traveled from Succoth to Etham and the Lord led them by a pillar of cloud

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

II. Interpretation



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

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

Bread, and the consecration of all firstborn males?

III. Application

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

Throughout scripture, God is very clear about how his people are to approach him. We must remember, especially

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. He 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

route. This harder route served to prepare the Israelites and refine 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.

The Parting of the Red SeaExodus 14-15

ContextI.

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

Moses:

When does this passage take place?

The passage takes place after the Israelites have left Egypt and, as we've studied in past weeks,

occurs during March/April by our calendar.

Where does this passage take place?

The Israelites are leaving Etham and heading south toward Pi Hahiroth, near Migdol on the western

side of the Red Sea, which they later cross over.

What is going on? (Summary of Events)

After the Israelites camped at Etham (13:20), the Lord led them south near Pi Hahiroth, between

Migdol and the Red Sea. When Pharaoh heard that the people had fled and realized that they had

lost their workforce, he summoned his army and they pursued the Israelites using all the chariots in

Egypt. The Egyptians caught up with the Israelites near Pi Hahiroth and the Israelites were

overcome with fear and dread, but Moses assured them that Lord would deliver them from the

Egyptians.(14:1-14)

The Lord told Moses to stretch out his staff over the sea and when he did, the Lord parted the

waters so that the Israelites could cross on dry land. The angel of God, who had been traveling in

front of them withdrew and went behind them, between them and the Egyptians, along with the

pillar of cloud. The cloud separated both armies all night long as the Israelites crossed over the dry

land where the sea had been. (14:15-22)

When the Egyptians finally pursued the Israelites into the sea, the Lord caused them to become

confused and to have problems with their chariots. At daybreak, when the Israelites were safely

across, the Lord told Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea once again and the sea returned to

its place, killing the entire army of Egypt; none of the Egyptians who had pursued them survived.

(14:23-30)

After all this had taken place and the Israelites saw the power of the Lord, they feared Him and

put their trust in the Lord and in Moses. Moses and the Israelites sang a song to the Lord to

commemorate what the Lord had done for them that day. Also, Aaron's sister, Miriam the

prophetess, sang a song to the women about the Lord's victory (14:31-15:21)

InterpretationII.

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

How is God involved in this passage? What do we learn of his character? How does this passage point us

toward or connect with Christ?

In Moses' and the Israelites' song of praise (Ch. 15), what is said about their relationship with God? What

is said about his character? How does it focus on the past, present, and future?

ApplicationIII.

Moses trusted God to do what He set out to do, even when the rest of the Israelites did not. When our

lives are in turmoil, do we trust God despite our circumstances? Or do we allow the challenges and

struggles we face daily to take our focus off of the Lord?

When God delivered the Israelites from Egypt's army, their response was praise. Do we take time in our

busy lives to praise God? (Other than on Sundays)

www.mbc20something.blogspot.com

The Complaining Begins Exodus 15:22-17:7

Context


I.

Moses:

The Israelites:


The events of this passage appear to follow directly after the preceeding passages, i.e. there doesn't appear to be a

significant break in time between the crossing of the Red Sea and this passage . The first verse of chapter 16 tells

us that they came to the Desert of Sin on the 15th day of the second month (Iyyar/Ziv), and Exodus 12:3 tells us

that Passover occurred on the 14th day of the first month (Nisan/Abib), so roughly a month has passed since the

Israelites left Egypt. Nisan/Abib corresponds with the end of March and first part of April by our calendar and

Iyyar/Ziv corresponds with the end of April and the first part of May.


From the Red Sea, the Israelites traveled through the Desert of Shur to Marah, where they found bitter water. From

there, they traveled to Elim and then into the Desert of Sin. Finally, at the end of the passage, they camp at

Rephidim and, after complaining about lack of water, the Lord leads them to Massah and Meribah, near Mt.

Horeb. Mt. Horeb is near Mt. Sinai and it is where Moses first encountered the Lord as the Burning Bush. Thus,

Moses has returned to the starting point of his quest.


The Lord has delivered his people from Egypt and from the Egyptian army that pursued them across the Red Sea.

After a time of worship and praise to the Lord, Moses leads the people from the Red Sea through the Desert of

Shur to Marah, where the water was too bitter to drink. The Israelites complained to Moses and Moses cried out to

the Lord who provided a piece of wood to make the water drinkable. The Lord tested the people by promising to

keep the diseases that were sent upon the Egyptians from afflicting them if they would obey his commands and do

what was right. (15:22-27)

After camping at Elim with its twelve springs and seventy palm trees, they set out toward Sinai through the Desert

of Sin. There the people complained about hunger, so the Lord provided manna on the ground each morning and

quail to eat each evening. With this, the Lord gave specific instructions to the people about how much to collect, to

collect twice as much on the sixth day, and not to keep any until morning, except on the sixth day. With this, the

Lord instituted the observance of the Sabbath. (16:1-36)

As the Israelites traveled through the Desert of Sin, they became thirsty and complained to Moses again when they

camped at Rephidim. Frustrated with the people, Moses asks the Lord what to do and the Lord instructed him to

take the elders ahead of the people to Horeb and strike a rock there with his staff. When Moses did this, water

poured from the rock for the people to drink. (17:1-7)

Interpretation II.


How is God involved in this passage? What do we learn of his character? How does this passage point us toward or

connect with Christ?

Compare and contrast Moses as the mediator between the Lord and the Israelites vs. Christ as the mediator between God

the Father and mankind. How is mankind like the Israelites?

Application

Mercy and grace are prevailing themes in this passage as well as throughout Genesis and thus far in Exodus. From the

very beginning, God shows his unmerited favor upon sinful man and his patience of wrath upon their sinfulness. We live

today under that same grace and mercy that has been credited to us through Christ. Do we take that for granted?

When we read of the Israelites' complaining, it's easy for us to be critical of their lack of faith and immaturity. Yet how

often to we find ourselves complaining about our circumstances? What is the difference between complaining/grumbling

(Phil. 2:14-15) and "making your requests known to God" (Phil. 4:6)?

III.

4/27/2008

http://www.mbc20something.blogspot.com

Defeating the Amalekites and Setting up Judges Exodus 17:8-18:27

Context


I.

Moses:

Jethro:


We know from last week that these events are taking place at least a month after leaving Egypt (Passover) and

Chapter 19 tells us that they came to Mt. Sinai approximately three months after leaving Egypt. It is likely that the

events of this passage overlap the events of 17:1-7 from last week's lesson.


The ending location for last week's and this week's lesson is Sinai, so the passages appear to overlap somewhat.

For example, in last week's lesson, the Israelites had camped at Rephidim, and this week's lesson opens with the

Amalekites attack at Rephidim. There is no indication of movement in this passage, so it appears that the whole of

the lesson occurs around Rephidim.


When the Amalekites attack the Israelites, Moses appoints Joshua to lead the men of Israel against them while

he stands atop a hill overlooking the battle with his staff raised. Whenever his staff was raised, the Israelites were

winning, so Aaron and Hur, who were with Moses, helped Moses hold up his staff until Israel had defeated the

Amalekites. In worship, they built an altar to the Lord. (17:1-15)

Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, came to Moses in the desert near Sinai and brought with him Zipporah (Moses'

wife) and his two sons, Gershom and Eliezer. After they arrived and greeted one another, Moses spent some time

recounting the events of his travels and how the Lord had faithfully delivered him and the Israelites from the hands

of Pharaoh and the Egyptians. This affirmed Jethro's faith in the Lord and, in response, he offered up sacrifices in

worship to the Lord. (18:1-12)

Moses served as the sole judge over all the Israelites and all day long the people came to him with their

problems and conflicts. Jethro noticed what a heavy burden this was on Moses and suggested that instead of

Moses serving as the sole judge, he instead appoint worthy men over groups of the people to judge smaller issues.

Should an issue be too difficult for one of them to judge, he would then bring the issue to Moses. Moses did this

and essentially set up a system of government over the people at this time. (18:13-27)

Interpretation II.


How is God involved in this passage? What do we learn of his character? How does this passage point us toward or

connect with Christ?

Why do you think that it was important to set up the judging system that Jethro suggested (other than Moses' health)?

What benefit might this have been to the people?

Application

Moses knew that God would grant them victory over the Amalekites. How often do we greet opposition with this level of

confidence in God's deliverance?

Jethro's words to Moses and suggestions regarding the governing of the people are a good reminder to us that we cannot

do it all ourselves. How well do you rely on others? Do you have a hard time entrusting important tasks to others? Do

you feel compelled to retain control of even the smaller things in life? How might Jethro's words apply to you in your

own daily duties?

III.

Lesson Date: 5/4/2008


The Ten Commandments Exodus 19:1-20:26

Context


I.

The Lord is by far the main character of this passage, as it is he who speaks the Ten Commandments to Moses

(Chapter 20) and who initiates the covenant relationship between himself and the Israelites. The Lord has shown

himself to be trustworthy in the keeping of his promises to the people as well as generous, compassionate and

patient in his responses to the people's grumbling and complaining along the journey from Egypt to Sinai. Moses,

the Lord's ambassador, not only receives the messages from the Lord but also conveys them to the people. We

have seen Moses develop in maturity from a hesitant shepherd to the obedient leader of a nation. He has shown

himself to be trustworthy, both in the eyes of the Lord and of the people.


The beginning of Chapter 19 tells us that the Israelites entered the Desert of Sinai exactly 3 months after leaving

Egypt. This would have been approximately in the middle of Sivan, the third month of the Hebrew calendar,

which covered the end of May and the first part of June.


This passage takes place in the Desert of Sinai, the valley area surrounding Mt. Sinai. Ryrie estimates that this

region was approximately 2.5 miles long by .5 miles wide and would have been large enough for the nation of

Israel to camp in while the events of these passages took place. Also, they are near Mt. Sinai, as God saw it

necessary to have limits put up around its base to prevent encroachment by the people. (19:12)


The Israelites arrive at the foot of Mt. Sinai exactly three months after leaving Egypt. Moses meets with God at

the mountain and God extends his covenant to Moses and the people that if they obeyed the Lord and kept his

covenant, then they would be God's treasured posession (19:5). Moses relayed this to the people who agreed to

this covenant and then they spent the next few days preparing to meet with the Lord. They consecrated themselves

as Moses instructed them to do. Then, on the third day, the Lord descended upon Mt. Sinai in a dense cloud with

peals of thunder and a loud trumpet blast. Moses led the people, trembling and afraid, to the base of the mountain

to meet with God. Moses spoke, standing with the people, and the voice of God answered him and called him to

the top. Moses approached the Lord and the Lord sent him back to the people to warn them not to touch the

mountain and to bring Aaron up with him when he returned. And Moses did as the Lord said. (19:1-25)

The Lord then spoke the Ten Commandments: (1) You shall have no other gods before me, (2) Do not make or

worship any idols, (3) Do not misuse the name of the Lord, (4) Remember the Sabbath by keeping it holy, (5)

Honor your father and mother, (6) You shall not murder, (7) You shall not commit adultery, (8) You shall not

steal, (9) You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor, (10) You shall not covet your neighbor's house,

wife, servants, ox, donkey, or anything that belongs to him. After they heard these things, the people were afraid

and asked Moses not to have God speak again. Then Moses approached God on the mountain and God gave him

further instructions on how they should and should not build an altar to him. (20:1-26)

Interpretation II.


What do we learn of God's character based upon the types and nature of these laws? Does this passage point us toward or

connect with Christ? If so, how?

Discuss how the focus of the commandments starts with God's sovereignty, then moves to how man is to behave toward

God, then how man is to behave toward his family, then others.

Application

The first commandment lays the foundation for the rest of the law. In fact, Jesus in Matthew 22:36-40 says this is the

"greatest commandment." How much more, then, should we focus on this commandment as the foundation for our walk

with Christ. When we place God's glory at the very top of our priority list, it's amazing how the rest of our list seems to

fall into place.

III.

5/11/2008

http://mbc20something.blogspot.com

The Book of the Covenant, Part 1 Exodus 20:22-22:17

Context


I.

In this passage, the Lord is speaking directly to Moses (20:22). This is a "one-way" discourse given by God to

Moses; we have no record of any response by Moses during this discourse. We know that the Lord has shown

himself as might & powerful, faithful to his people, intimately connected with his people ("Lord"), patient and

gracious. We have seen Moses develop from a reluctant shepherd to an obedient mouthpiece for God. He has

shown himself faithful and trustworthy to the Lord in his responses to the trials of Egypt as well as the trials of the

wilderness of the Exodus.


This passage is a continuation of the previous passage where the Lord gives the Ten Commandments; thus, there is

no indication of a passing of time between the events of the first half of Ch. 20 and the second half and following.

Verse 1 of Chapter 19 tells us that the israelites arrived at Sinai exactly three months after leaving Egypt, so this

passage is taking place around the end of May/beginning of June.


As this passage is a continuation of the Lord's giving of the law to Moses, the events are still located at Mt. Sinai.


After giving the Ten Commandments, the Lord begins to expound upon them with various examples and

situational explanations. The first section (20:22-26) focus on the relationship between the Lord and his people;

specifically, how they are to revere the Lord and how they are to worship him. The next section (21:1-11)

expound upon how one was to treat slaves/servants. Then the Lord addresses injury between two people,

including physical injury, kidnapping, cursing one's parents, property loss (not theft), and injury by and to one's

animals. (21:12-36). Chapter 22 addressed theft, property damage, loss of property while under the supervision of

another, and pre-marital sex (22:1-17)

Interpretation II.




Why was the law important? What purpose(s) did it serve? How does this system of "righteousness" (right-standing with

God) differ from the "righteousness by faith" of the New Testament?

If we live under grace, is the law still relevant to us today? What value is there for us in studying these (and more to

come) laws? How are Moses & Jesus similar/different in their roles with the law?

Application

As Christians, we are justified (delcared righteous) because of what Christ did for us in taking our place as the recipient of

judgement for our sins. The Bible tells us that all of us have sinned--fallen short of perfection--(Romans 3:23). The law

cannot save us, because none of us can keep it perfectly. Thus, the Law's greatest value is to make us aware of the fact

that we are sinful and unable to save ourselves.

Just as the Lord prescribed in many of the specific cases given in this passage, the penalty for sin is death--physical death

here in Exodus, but extended to spiritual death in Romans 6:23.

Christ died in our place so that God could be shown just in his dealing with sin. Christ's victory over death and his

resurrection offers hope to those who trust in his payment for their sin and receive, by exchange, his righteousness in

place of their unrighteous sin. Faith is believing this to be true and trusting in it for one's eternal security.

III.

5/18/2008


The Book of the Covenant, Part 2 Exodus 22:18-24:18

Context


I.

As in the previous passage, the Lord is speaking directly to Moses (20:22). This is a "one-way" discourse given by

God to Moses. We know that the Lord has shown himself as might & powerful, faithful to his people, intimately

connected with his people ("Lord"), patient and gracious. We have seen Moses develop from a reluctant shepherd

to an obedient mouthpiece for God. He has shown himself faithful and trustworthy to the Lord in his responses to

the trials of Egypt as well as the trials of the wilderness of the Exodus. At the end of the passage we see the people

responding in affirmation of the covenant (24:3). We also see mention of Aaron, Nadab and Abihu (Aaron's sons),

and 70 elders of Israel (24:9).


This passage is a continuation of the previous passage where the Lord gives the Ten Commandments; thus, there is

no indication of a passing of time between the events of the first half of this section and the second half and

following. Exodus 19:1 tells us that the israelites arrived at Sinai exactly three months after leaving Egypt, so this

passage is taking place around the end of May/beginning of June.


As this passage is a continuation of the Lord's giving of the law to Moses, the events are still located at Mt. Sinai.


In this section of scripture, the Lord continues his discourse to Moses on the covenant laws. The first section

focuses on social and religious responsibilities (22:18-23:9), the second section deals with Sabbaths and Feasts

(23:10-19), and the third section deals with their actions toward the nations they would conquer (23:20-33). After

this, Moses told the people all that God had said and they responded "Everything the Lord has said we will do."

(24:3) and then Moses wrote down what God had said to him.

The next day, Moses build an altar and they offered burnt offerings and fellowship offerings to God. He read

again the laws that God had given to them, to which the people affirmed their submission, and Moses sprinkled

some of the blood from the sacrifices on the people as a seal of the covenant between them and the Lord. (24:8)

Moses, Aaron & his sons, and the 70 elders went up the mountain, saw the Lord in his glory, and dwelt in

fellowship with the Lord for awhile (24:9-11). Then the Lord told Moses to come up to the top of the mountain

again and entered the cloud of God's glory, staying there for forty days and forty nights. (24:12-18)

Interpretation II.




Why was it important for the Lord to reveal himself not only to Moses, but to Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and 70 elders of

Israel?

Application: Romans 3:21-31III.

"But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify.

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have

sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ

Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice,

because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—he did it to demonstrate his justice at

the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. Where, then, is boasting? It is

excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith. For we maintain that a man is

justified by faith apart from observing the law. Is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of

Gentiles too, since there is only one God, who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that

same faith. Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law."

Sunday School: 6/1/2008


The Tabernacle Exodus 25:1-27:21

Context


I.

This passage is, like several before it, a one-way discourse between God and Moses where God is giving specific

instruction to him. We know that Moses has been selected by God to be God's ambassador to the Israelites. This

passage gives us insight into the detailed nature of God's character, much like previous passages regarding the law

and instructions for worship.


Exodus 19:1 tells us that the israelites arrived at Sinai exactly three months after leaving Egypt, which would be

around the end of May/beginning of June by our calendar. At the end of Chapter 24, we are told that Moses dwelt

with God on the mountain for 40 days. This section of scripture appears to be during this 40 day period.


This passage takes place during the 40 days that Moses is dwelling with God on Mount Sinai


In Chapter 25, God told Moses to accept offerings of materials from the Israelites to help build the

Tabernacle and to build it exactly according to His plan. Verses 10-22 describe how the ark of the covenant and

the atonement covering (mercy seat) should be constructed (what materials, how large, etc.) and what should go in

the ark. Verses 23-30 tell how the table for the bread should be made and verses 31-40 tell how the lampstand

should be made.

Chapter 26 describes how the curtains and the frames of the tabernacle should be made. Also, it describes

how and from what the curtains that enclose the ark should be made.

Finally, the altar's construction is described, along with where the courtyard should be placed, how large it

should be and what should be placed in it. The last thing mentioned is the oil. The Israelites were to bring clear

oil of pressed olives for the lamps. Aaron and his sons would keep the lamps burning from evening until morning,

demonstrating a lasting ordinance among the Israelites for following generations.

Interpretation II.


What do we learn of God's character based upon the types and nature of these instruction? Does this passage point us

toward or connect with Christ? If so, how?

Why do you think that God made the offering of materials for the Tabernacle voluntary instead of required? What does

that indicate about the proper relationship between God and man?

ApplicationIII.

One thing that stands out in this passage is that man comes to God on God's terms, not man's terms. This is a "hot topic"

in today's world of spiritualism and "finding God within". So much time and energy is spent by mankind today in the

pursuit of "finding God," yet we have specific instruction in his word about where to find him. The problem is not that

God is hard to find, but that man either doesn't want to look for God where he says he is or man denies our God in pursuit

of something different. We need to be lights that point toward the true God and mirrors that reflect his glory to the world.

6/8/2008


The Priest's Garments Exodus 28:1-43

Context


I.



passage gives us insight into the detailed nature of God's character. Also, we are reminded that God is a

purposeful god; there are reasons he has things done they way he does.


Since this is a continuation of the previous passages, we know that Exodus 19:1 tells us that the israelites arrived at

Sinai exactly three months after leaving Egypt, which would be around the end of May/beginning of June by our

calendar. At the end of Chapter 24, we are told that Moses dwelt with God on the mountain for 40 days. This

section of scripture appears to be during this 40 day period.


This passage takes place during the 40 days that Moses is dwelling with God on Mount Sinai.


This chapter deals with the priests' garments. God told Moses to have Aaron and his sons brought to him so

they could be priests. Aaron was to wear sacred garments so he would have dignity and honor, and these garments

were to be a breastpiece, an ephod (2-piece garment, held to the body by a woven waistband and joined at the

shoulders by straps), a robe, a woven tunic, a turban and a sash and these were all to be made out of the finest

linens and colored yarns. Two onyx stones were to be engraved with the names of the sons of Israel in their birth

order (6 names on each stone) and then mounted on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones. His sons

would be clothed similarly.

The breastpiece was to be made with 4 rows of precious stones, and each stone represented the names of the

sons of Isreal. Also, they were each to be engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes. The breastpiece

would be attached to the ephod. This was God's way of making sure that any time Aaron entered the Holy Place,

the names of the sons of Israel would be over his heart as a memorial to the Lord. Also, the Urim and the

Thummim would be over his heart, in the breastpiece, so he would always "bear the means of making decisions for

the Israelites over his heart before the Lord".

The robe would be made of blue cloth with bells around the hem, so that when he ministers, the sound of the

bells would be heard when he enters the Holy Place and so he wouldn't die when he came out.

A plate of pure gold with the engraving "Holy to the Lord" would be attached to the turban on the front, so that

when Aaron wore it, he would bear the guilt involved in the sacred gifts the Israelites consecrated. This was so the

gifts would be acceptable to the Lord.

Interpretation II.




God describes in great detail how each part of the priest's garments were to be made with each part significant for its own

reason. How might we incorporate these priorities as we approach God on our own today?

ApplicationIII.

The priest's garments were not made in such detail for God's benefit, but for the priest's. As the priest put on his

garments, he would be reminded of his solemn responsibility before the Lord and the people. How would our lives be

different if we wore a reminder of our responsibility and duty as believers each day? Would we take lightly the things

that should offend us?

6/22/2008


Example of what the priest's garments probably looked like(http://www.messianic-torah-truth-seeker.org/Torah/Kohen/kohen-garments.jpg)

The Priest's ConsecrationExodus 29:1-46

Context


I.



passage gives us insight into the detailed nature of God's character. Also, we are reminded that God is a

purposeful god; there are reasons he has things done they way he does.


Since this is a continuation of the previous passages, we know that Exodus 19:1 tells us that the israelites arrived at

Sinai exactly three months after leaving Egypt, which would be around the end of May/beginning of June by our


section of scripture appears to be during this 40 day period.


This passage takes place during the 40 days that Moses is dwelling with God on Mount Sinai.


Vv. 1-14 describe the bread and other baked goods that should be brought, along with a bull and two rams. It

discusses how the priests are to be washed at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting with water and then dressed in

the priests' clothing. Then the bull should be slaughtered and the blood should be put on the horns of the altar w/

Moses' finger and the rest poured out at the base. As a sin offering, the innards and fat should be burned on the

altar and the hide and flesh outside the camp.

Vv. 15-21 discusses the treatment of the two rams. The first ram should be slaughtered similarly to the bull, but

with the entire body burnt on the altar as a burnt offering (after having the inner parts and legs washed and

separated). The other ram should be slaughtered and some of its blood should be put on the lobes of Aaron and his

sons' right ears, right thumbs and big toes on their right feet. Some of the blood should be sprinkled on the altar

and that blood and the anointing oil should be sprinkled on Aaron and his sons and their garments. This will

consecrate them.

Vv. 22-30 describe how the 2nd ram should be specially handled and offered as wave offerings. Parts should

then be offered as burnt offerings and then specific body parts should be eaten by Aaron and his sons. This was to

be the regular share from the Israelites from their fellowship offerings to the Lord. Aaron's garments shall belong

to his descendants so that they can be anointed and ordained in them and the priest who succeeds him shall wear

them for seven days.

Vv. 31-37 describe how the ram should be cooked in a sacred place and Aaron and his sons should eat it along

w/ the bread in the basket for ordination and consecration but no one else may eat it. If any is left over it shall be

burned. These ceremonies should last seven days.

Vv. 38-41 deals with the law of the continual daily sacrifices and 42-45 discusses how the burnt offerings

should be continued for the generations to come and how God would meet there to speak with Moses and the

Israelites and would then dwell among the the Israelites and be their God. V. 46 says "They will know that I am

the Lord their God, who brought them out of Egypt so that I might dwell among them. I am the the Lord their

God."

Interpretation II.



toward or connect with Christ? If so, how? (Hint: Read Hebrews 10: 1-14)

What different types of sacrifices are described here and what were there purposes? Why do you think there were

different types of sacrifices required here?

ApplicationIII.

This passage's main focus is consecration--setting apart for God's use. Just as Christ was set apart, so to are we set apart

in Christ. Read Hebrews 10:19-25. We are able to draw near to God because of Christ's position as our High Priest.

Sunday School: 7/6/2008

http://mbc20something.blogspot.com

Final Instructions on Mount SinaiExodus 30:1-31:18

Context


I.

This passage is, like several before it, a one-way discourse between God and Moses where God is giving

specific instruction to him. We know that Moses has been selected by God to be God's ambassador to the

Israelites. This passage gives us insight into the detailed nature of God's character. Also, we are reminded that

God is a purposeful god; there are reasons he has things done they way he does.

When and where does this passage take place?

Since this is a continuation of the previous passages, we know that Exodus 19:1 tells us that the israelites arrived

at Sinai exactly three months after leaving Egypt, which would be around the end of May/beginning of June by our


section of scripture appears to be during the last part of this 40 day period on Mount Sinai.


Chapter 30 consists of five sections. The first section, verses 1-10, describe the Altar of Incense which was to

be placed before the curtain that veiled the Ark of the Covenant. Aaron was to burn fragrant insense on it every

morning and evening and was to offer atonement once a year on its horns. The second section, verses 11-16,

describe the offering required of every Israelite as a ransom for his life, a payment for atonement and to be counted

among his people. The third section, verses 17-21, describe the basin that was to be used by Aaron and his sons to

wash their hands and feet when they performed their duties. The fourth and fifth sections, verses 22-33 and 34-38,

describe the ingredients and usage of the anointing oil and insense, respectively.

Chapter 31 consists of two sections. In the first section, verses 1-11, the Lord is describing how he has chosen

Bezalel, son of Uri, and annointed Oholiab, son of Ahisamach, to be the lead artizans and workers for the

construction of the tabernacle. Further, the Lord tells Moses that he has empowered all the craftsmen of Israel to

be able to make all the things that were requred for the tabernacle. In the second section, the Lord focuses on the

importance of observing the Sabbaths as the Lord had commanded them to do and further establishes it as a lasting

covenant between him and his people.

The passage ends with verse 18 of chapter 31 where the Lord finishes speaking to Moses and gives him the two

stone tablets with the Testimony inscribed on them by the finger of God.

Interpretation II.




Why do you think it was so important for God to give such specific detail in his instructions, both in what to make for the

tabernacle and how it was to be used?

ApplicationIII.

This entire discourse on Mount Sinai centers around sanctification and consecration. Notice how it is man's responsibility

to set apart those things God commanded, but it is God who consecrates them, makes them holy. The general flow might

be something like this: God commands, man obeys, God makes it holy. This is a great reminder to us that we offer

ourselves freely of our own will to God, but it is only God who has the ability to make holy what we offer to him through

the eternally-sufficient sacrifice of his son, Jesus Christ.

7/20/2008


The Golden CalfExodus 32:1-35

Context


I.

The Israelite people:

Aaron:

Moses:


The events of this passage take place at the end of the 40 days Moses spent on Mt. Sinai in the presence of the

Lord. The passage opens in the Israelite camp at the base of Mt. Sinai, then Moses descends from the top of Mt.

Sinai to the camp and addresses the sin of the people. He then returns to the top of Mt. Sinai.


The Israelites were getting impatient and concerned that Moses had not come back down from Mt. Sinai, so they

asked Aaron to make an idol for them. He had them give him all their gold earrings and made an idol in the shape

of a calf. The next day they lay sacrifices down before it and had a festival around it.

God saw this and became very angry with them and told Moses he would destroy them, but Moses interceded

for the people, asking for God's mercy on them. So God was merciful and didn't destroy them. Instead, He sent

Moses down with the two Tablets of the Testimony to give to the Israelites.

When Moses saw what Aaron had done and the sin of the people, he threw the tablets down, breaking them. He

then took the calf and destroyed it and then made the Israelites drink its powder. He then told anyone who was

with him and God to come to him and then informed them that they had to go around killing their friends, brothers

and neighbors, which they did (resulting in about 3000 people dying). The next day, Moses went up to talk with

the Lord to try and make atonement for their sins. God told him to go ahead and take the Israelites to the place He

had spoken of, but that He would punish them when the time came (which He did with a plague).

Interpretation II.


What do we learn of God's character from this passage? Does this passage point us toward or connect with Christ? If so,

how?

Do you think that Moses changed God's mind? Why or why not? Does this have any implications for our prayers today?

Was Moses justified in his command to kill those in the camp who didn't repent? Why or why not?

ApplicationIII.

In the absence of leadership, the Israelites returned to the Egyptian way of doing things, instead of pursuing their new

identity as God's chosen people. While we may not create for ourselves a golden idol to worship, we all too often may

slip back into our old way of doing things, the way we lived before Christ (or the way we might live in the absence of a

relationship with Christ). We create for ourselves other things that we worship with our time and devotion. We give

credit to things like Karma or try to seek God in our own ways instead of the way he provided: Jesus Christ.

What traces of the "old life" remain in your "new life"? What things do you worship with your time and resources?

Pleasure? Comfort? Money? Relationships?

Sunday School 8/3/2008


Moses Petitions the Lord and Beholds His GloryExodus 33:1-34:35

Context


I.

The Israelite people:

Moses:


The events of this passage take place after Moses destroyed the golden calf that the people were worshipping, as

Moses returned up Mt. Sinai to seek atonement for the sins of the people. It took exactly three months from the

time the Israelites left Egypt until they arrived at Mt. Sinai (19:1), and almost 2 months passed until Moses

destroyed the golden calf (3 days of preparation after arrival [19:16], 7 days of God's glory descended upon Mt.

Sinai before Moses is called up to the top [24:16], and 40 days that Moses dwelt on the mountain with the Lord

[24:18], not including any unmentioned travel time, if any). This places the start of this passage around 5 months

since they left Egypt and the end of the passage about 40 days later (34:28).


At the end of Chapter 32, Moses is ascending the mountain again to seek atonement for the people's sin in

worshipping the golden calf. The Lord tells Moses to leave Mt. Sinai with the people and proceed to the Promised

Land, but because of their stiff-necked ways, the Lord would send an angel ahead of them instead of going with

them himself. When Moses told the people this, they mourned and did not put on any ornaments as a

demonstration of their mourning. (33:1-6)

There is a brief description of the Tent of Meeting, which is the tent where Moses would meet with the Lord as

they traveled from Egypt to Sinai. When Moses would approach the tent, the people would watch him, and when

the pillar of cloud descended over the entrance to the tent, they would all worship the Lord. (33:7-11)

The passage then rejoins Moses as he petitions the Lord to go with the Israelites to Canaan, to which the Lord

agrees. Moses then asks to see the Lord's glory and the Lord permits Moses to see only his back, because no one

who saw the Lord's face would be allowed to live. The Lord instructs Moses to bring two new tablets with him the

next day and the Lord would pass by him to allow Moses to see his glory and would write out the testimony again

on the tablets. Moses obeyed and the next day the Lord passed by Moses and proclaimed his own name as he

passed Moses. Moses's response was to worship the Lord and beg forgiveness for the people. (33:12-34:9)

The Lord makes a covenant with Moses and reiterates the words of the law that would be written on the stone

tablets. Moses wrote down everything the Lord said and dwelt with the Lord on the top of Mt. Sinai for 40 more

days and nights without eating bread or drinking water. When Moses returned to the people from the mountain,

his face was radiant from being in the Lord's presence (34:10-35)

Interpretation II.



how?

Is God glorified by the events of this passage? If so, then how? What specifically about these actions or events bring

glory to the Lord or reflect his glory? What actions or events detract from God's glory?

What attributes does the Lord proclaim about himself? How might this be a model for how we can proclaim his name?

ApplicationIII.

Our sole purpose for existing is for the glory of the Lord. In everything that we do, we ought to make it our primary

focus to bring glory to God. Experiencing God means seeking his glory step by step, day by day.

Is it evident to others when you've met with the Lord? Moses's face was radiant from his time with the Lord. Do other

people notice something different about us as a result of spending time with God?



Building the TabernacleExodus 35:1-36:38

Context


I.

Moses:

Israelite People:

Bezalel & Oholiab:


When: The events of this passage take place after Moses returned from the top of Mt. Sinai with the second set of

tablets. We can estimate that it was about 6-7 months since the people had left Egypt. It took exactly three months

from the time the Israelites left Egypt until they arrived at Mt. Sinai (19:1), and almost 2 months passed until

Moses destroyed the golden calf (3 days of preparation after arrival [19:16], 7 days of God's glory descended upon

Mt. Sinai before Moses is called up to the top [24:16], and 40 days that Moses dwelt on Sinai with the Lord

[24:18], plus any unmentioned travel time). Moses returned with the second set of tablets 40 days later (34:28).

Where: The events of the passage take place at the bottom of Mt. Sinai, probably somewhere in the Sinai valley.


Sabbath Regulations Given: Moses reminded the whole Israelite community of the requirement to observe the

Sabbath and consequences for breaking it (death) (35:1-3).

Materials for the Tabernacle: Moses instructed the people to bring offerings for materials to be used in

constructing the temple as they were willing. He listed the specific materials needed. He also called upon all the

skilled craftsmen to participate in the construction of all the parts of the tabernacle and he lists the projects to be

completed. The people left Moses' presence and all whose hearts moved them brought offerings for the

Tabernacle construction, and the skilled women who were willing spun yarn and linen to be used and brought it

(35:4-29).

Bezalel & Oholiab: Moses declares the Lord's selection of Bezalel and testifies to how the Lord had filled him

with the spirit of God, skills, abilities and knowledge needed to complete the Tabernacle. Moses also declares that

the Lord had given both Bezalel and Oholiab the ability to teach others. Moses presents the offerings to Bezalel

and Oholiab and they begin to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. The people continued to bring offerings

above what was needed, so Moses had to order them to stop (35:30-36:7).

The Construction of the Tabernacle: The remaining part of the passage gives account of the parts of the

Tabernacle that were built by the skilled workers. It describes the making of the curtains, tent, upright frames of

acacia wood, crossbars of acacia wood & the entrance curtain (36:8-38).

Interpretation II.



how?

Why do you thin God had the people give according to their hearts vs. specifying that everyone give a specific amount?

ApplicationIII.

How do we respond when God moves our hearts to do something? When prompted to give, the people responded by

giving more than was needed. Do we give abundantly of our resources or just what is required?

This passage is a great example of how we can all participate in what God's doing around us. Some people may not have

been skilled, but were able to give more materials for the Tabernacle. Some may have been poor in possessions but

skilled in one of the construction tasks. There was a place for all whose hearts moved them and who were willing. In

what way(s) is God moving your heart to get involved in his plans? Are you willing to participate?

Building the Tabernacle, Part IIExodus 37:1-38:31

ContextWho are the main characters in this passage? What do we know ab out them?

I.

Bezalel:


When: Since this is a continuation of the passage before it, we can also assume that the events of this passage takeplace after Moses returned from the top of Mt. Sinai with the second set of tablets. We can estimate that it was about6-7 months since the people had left Egypt. It took exactly three months from the time the Israelites left Egypt untilthey arrived at Mt. Sinai (19:1), and almost 2 months passed until Moses destroyed the golden calf (3 days ofpreparation after arrival [19:16], 7 days of God's glory descended upon Mt. Sinai before Moses is called up to the top[24:16], and 40 days that Moses dwelt on Sinai with the Lord [24:18], plus any unmentioned travel time). Mosesreturned with the second set of tablets 40 days later (34:28).Where: The events of the passage take place at the bottom of Mt. Sinai, probably somewhere in the Sinai valley.


The Ark: Bezalel makes the Ark from acacia wood overlaid with gold and the Atonement Cover out of pure gold(Exodus 37:1-9)The Tab le: They made the table from acacia wood and overlaid it with gold (Exodus 37:10-16)The Lampstand and lamps: They made the lampstand out of a single piece of pure gold and its seven lamps andaccessories (Exodus 37:17-24)The Altar of Incense: They made the Altar of Incense from acacia wood and overlaid the top and sides with puregold. (Exodus 37:25-29) The Altar of Burnt Offering: They made the Altar of Burnt Offering from acacia wood and overlaid it withbronze (Exodus 38:1-7)The Basin for Washing: They made the basin and its stand of bronze. (Exodus 38:8)The Courtyard: They made curtains of finely twisted linen and hung them from poles set around the Tabernacle,forming a courtyard 100 cubits by 50 cubits (Exodus 38:9-20)The Materials: They used 29 talents and 730 shekels of gold, 100 talents and 1, 775 shekels of silver, and 70 talentsand 2, 400 shekels of bronze. (Exodus 38:21-31)**In today's units: a little over 1 ton (2, 000 lbs) of gold, about 3 3/4 tons of silver (7, 500 lbs), and about 2 1/2 tons(3, 000 lbs) of bronze.**According to prices last week, approx. $25, 692, 800 in gold, $1, 466, 400 in silver, and $133, 056 in copper (88%of bronze)= $27, 292, 256 in materials

InterpretationII.What principles are illustrated in this passage? What would you consider the theme of this passage?

What do we learn of God's character from this passage? Does this passage point us toward or connect with Christ? If so,how?

Why do you think that Moses had the building of the Tabernacle and its accessories recorded in such detail? Does this revealanything about the hearts of the people?

ApplicationIII.

Think of a time when you were obedient to God's leading in your life. What was the outcome? Did you grow in faith? Howso? When we experience God working in and through us as we respond in obedience to him, it can be very helpful to recordthe events to look back on when the future is dark. I think that one of the reasons Moses had this passage recorded was topreserve a record of God's people being obedient to him as a reminder of the experience for generations to come. How do yourecord your experiences with God?


http: //mbc20somethi ng.blogspot.com

The Work Completed and Inspected / Tabernacle Filled with God's GloryExodus 39:1-40:38

ContextWho are the main characters in this passage? What do we know ab out them?

I.

Moses:


When: Since this is a continuation of the passage before it, we can also assume that the events of this passage takeplace after Moses returned from the top of Mt. Sinai with the second set of tablets. We can estimate that it was about6-7 months since the people had left Egypt. It took exactly three months from the time the Israelites left Egypt untilthey arrived at Mt. Sinai (19:1), and almost 2 months passed until Moses destroyed the golden calf (3 days ofpreparation after arrival [19:16], 7 days of God's glory descended upon Mt. Sinai before Moses is called up to the top[24:16], and 40 days that Moses dwelt on Sinai with the Lord [24:18], plus any unmentioned travel time). Mosesreturned with the second set of tablets 40 days later (34:28). We know from 40:1-2 that all of the tabernacleconstruction and related projects were completed by "the first day of the first month, " so it would appear that it tookno more than 6 months to complete all the work. The Tabernacle was erected approximately 1 year after the Israelitesleft Egypt.Where: The events of the passage take place at the bottom of Mt. Sinai, probably somewhere in the Sinai valley.


The Priests' Garments: The craftsmen made garments for Aaron's sons and for Aaron, just as the Lord had instructedMoses on Sinai. (39:1-31)Moses Inspects the Work: When the work was completed, the Israelites brought it to Moses for inspection andMoses blessed them because they had completed all the work just as God had instructed Moses to do while he was onSinai (39:32-43)Moses Erects the Tab ernacle: The Lord told Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the first month andto arrange all the articles as he had commanded. So Moses did as the Lord said and he himself erected the tabernacle,placed the ark of the Testimony in it and arranged all the articles as the Lord had told him to do. (40:1-33)The Glory of the Lord fills the Tab ernacle: When all the parts of the Tabernacle had been set up, the cloudcovered the Tent of Meeting and God's glory filled the tabernacle. From that point on in their travels, they movedonward when the cloud lifted and stayed when it was upon the Tent of Meeting. (40:34-38)

InterpretationII.What principles are illustrated in this passage? What would you consider the theme of this passage?

What do we learn of God's character from this passage? Does this passage point us toward or connect with Christ? If so,how?

Why do you think that God had the people go to the trouble of building the Tabernacle? Couldn't he just continue to leadthem by the pillar of fire/cloud as he had been?

Looking back over the book of Exodus, what would you say is the main theme of the book? How have Moses and theIsraelites changed at the end vs. the start?

Read Genesis 15 and Exodus 19:3-6. How were God's covenant with Abraham and God's covenant with Moses similar? Howwere they different?

ApplicationIII.Exodus is a book about redemption and, in many ways, a foreshadowing of Christ's coming. The Lord redeemed his peoplefrom the physical slavery by the Egyptians. In the same way, God redeems us from slavery to sin though the death, burial,and resurrection of his son, Jesus. Just as God sent Moses to Egypt, he also sent his only son into the world. Despite themultitude of similarities, there is one stark difference: only Christ was able to fully resolve the sin issue of mankind. It is tothis truth that we stake our eternity.

exodus (complete outlines)

Documents