Exodus

Exodus


What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? The most obvious thing would be the descriptions in the first 19 chapters describing the Israelites journey from bondage to deliverance. These chapters could well have been written for the new generation that was entering Canaan –the old having died within the time of the 40 year sojourn in the desert.

What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Just about everything! God speaks to Moses at great length and he witnesses God’s love, wisdom and understanding in helping set up rulings that he, Moses, will be able to use as he leads his people. Moses’ faithfulness and bravery to face God is very moving. His personal hurt when the Israelites continually show their lack of faith and understanding of God are indicative of how much Moses seeks to honor God and yet at the same time plead God’s forgiveness of his people’s waywardness.

What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the "main idea?" The laws are repeated twice–the first time by God, then by the narrator, Moses. Themes like keeping the Sabbath, the order of the tabernacle, faithfully relating events to future generations, God’s rescuing them from oppression are oft repeated themes. I borrow from SourceView the main idea; "God unfolds a nation’s destiny."

What is the primary reason this book was written? To set in motion a life of worship (tabernacle), and laws to bring safety and sanity to the people of God as they begin to possess the land.

What does this book show about the Character and Nature of God? God shows Himself to be true in the very plagues (Exodus 7-12), that He brings upon the Egyptians. His power and supremacy is demonstrated in an unmistakably way. His loving nature is too, in the way He protected the Israelites from all the plagues. The order of the Tabernacle (Exodus 27-30) also showed a lot about His character and nature. Order and beauty is God’s very nature and His character is shown in the exactitude in which He must be worshiped.

What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? The building of the tabernacle is a phenomenal foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrifice for us on the cross. "Build for me an altar made of earth, and offer your sacrifices to me . . . and I will come to you and bless you." Exodus 20:24. Another redemptive foreshadowing would be the blood painted on the door posts at the Passover. "When I see the blood, I will pass over you." Exodus 12:13.

What is an application from this book that God is asking me to apply to my life today? "Have the people of Israel build Me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them." Exodus 25:8 Reading the set up of the tabernacle has always amazed me by the craftsmanship, the beauty, the details and great cooperation it took to make it what it was. And to also make it totally portable. I’m reminded by this book that my body is the tabernacle of God. I need to make it ready (holy), by disciplines and virtues, cooperation (submission) to God, and a heartfelt willingness to obey His will.

What can I take away from this book that helps me prepare for a future ministry or point of passion? God has the ability to navigate us through every trial, every dilemma, and every question we need an answer to. He came to Moses aid and gave him speech, understanding, discernment, and wisdom in dealing with the people he was leading. All this I can also have as I learn to depend on Him in everything.

Cindy Patrick

DBS Fall Quarter