Exodus: A Group StudySample

WEEK 3 INTRODUCTION: CALLING

In an unremarkable place, God chooses an unlikely person to receive an unforeseen calling to lead Israel out of slavery in Egypt. Plagued by doubt and uncertainty, Moses’ fears are met not by an assurance of his skill or gifting, but of God’s incredible power towards those who have faith. In the darkness of our days and the uncertainty of the future, God reminds us that He does not call the equipped, rather He equips the called.

What is this passage saying?

God appears to Moses through a burning bush in the middle of the wilderness. Moses is commissioned to bring the people of Israel out of their slavery in Egypt.

What is this passage teaching?

Although it was the miraculously burning bush that caught Moses’ attention, it was God’s calling that ultimately drew him in. From this unlikely spot in the middle of the desert, God calls “Moses, Moses!” (Exodus 3:4). The repetition of someone’s name in Moses’ time was a sign of endearment and friendship. God was not just calling Moses’ name, He was telling him that He loved him, cared for him, and wanted a relationship with him. God did not just want Moses to fulfill a task or complete an assignment, God wanted Moses to know Him.

How do I respond?

It is not uncommon to hyper-focus on God’s calling in our lives. Questions of colleges and careers, of spouses and families, even of churches and ministries – it seems like people are always at a crossroads of choices. While considering these questions is important, God is far more interested in capturing your affections, captivating your thoughts, and cultivating your obedience than He is in giving you a 10-year plan. With all the decisions that may be looming on your horizon, you can breathe a sigh of relief that God only calls for your obedience today. He does not need your accomplishments and He does not want your accolades – He wants your heart.