EXODUS
Context
Exodus is the second book of the Bible and continues the story of God's people. It tells the dramatic story of Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey to Mount Sinai, where God establishes His covenant with them. The book reveals God as the powerful deliverer who rescues His people and provides for their needs.
Written by Moses around 1440-1400 BC, Exodus covers approximately 80 years, from the death of Joseph to the construction of the tabernacle. The book is divided into three main sections: deliverance from Egypt (chapters 1-18), the giving of the Law (chapters 19-24), and the construction of the tabernacle (chapters 25-40).
Summary
Israel in Egypt (Ch. 1-2)
The Israelites multiply in Egypt but face increasing oppression under a new Pharaoh who fears their growing numbers. Moses is born during this time of persecution and is miraculously saved and raised in Pharaoh's household. After killing an Egyptian taskmaster, Moses flees to Midian where he encounters God at the burning bush.
The Ten Plagues (Ch. 7-12)
God sends ten devastating plagues upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Each plague targets Egyptian gods and shows God's superiority over all creation. The final plague, the death of the firstborn, leads to the institution of the Passover, where the blood of a lamb protects the Israelites from death.
The Exodus and Red Sea (Ch. 13-15)
After the Passover, Pharaoh finally releases the Israelites, but then changes his mind and pursues them with his army. God miraculously parts the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground, then closes the waters over the Egyptian army. This dramatic deliverance becomes a central theme of God's saving power throughout Scripture.
The Law and Tabernacle (Ch. 19-40)
At Mount Sinai, God gives Moses the Ten Commandments and establishes His covenant with Israel. The people agree to be God's holy nation, but quickly break the covenant by worshiping a golden calf. Despite their rebellion, God renews His covenant and provides detailed instructions for building the tabernacle, where He will dwell among His people.
Practice Questions & Answers
What is the main theme of the book of Exodus?
Exodus centers on God's deliverance of His people from slavery in Egypt and the establishment of His covenant with them at Mount Sinai. It reveals God as the redeemer who saves and provides for His people.
What do the ten plagues teach us about God's character?
The plagues demonstrate God's power over all creation, His justice in judging evil, and His mercy in giving Pharaoh multiple opportunities to repent. They also show God's protection of His people.
What is the significance of the Passover?
The Passover commemorates God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt and foreshadows Christ's sacrifice. The blood of the lamb protected the Israelites from death, just as Christ's blood protects believers from eternal death.
Why was the Law given to Israel at Mount Sinai?
The Law was given to establish Israel as God's holy nation, provide guidelines for righteous living, and reveal humanity's need for a Savior. It shows God's standards and our inability to meet them perfectly.
What does the tabernacle represent in Exodus?
The tabernacle represents God's presence among His people and foreshadows Christ's incarnation. It shows that God desires to dwell with His people and provides a way for sinful humans to approach a holy God.