Exodus: A Group StudySample

What is this passage saying?

Yahweh instructs His people regarding the consecration of the firstborn and the Feast of Unleavened bread.

What is this passage teaching?

The consecration of the firstborn and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were designed to remind Israel of Yahweh’s “strong hand” that delivered them out of Egypt (Exodus 13:3, 9, 14, 16). This does not mean Yahweh rules with cruelty and dominance, rather He reigns in perfect justice, mercy, and loyal love. Every time a woman or animal gave birth for the first time it would be a reminder of Yahweh’s “strong hand” that providentially cares for His people. Following the celebration of Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread was meant to reorient Israel back to the law and remind them of Yahweh’s “strong hand” that protects them from their enemies.

How do I respond?

Yahweh put reminders “as marks on your hand and frontlets between your eyes” (Exodus 13:16) because one of the greatest enemies of God’s people is forgetfulness. Rhythms and reminders are important because they refocus your mind and reorient your heart towards God’s power and presence in your life. In the New Testament, Jesus gives the church two of these “rhythms” in baptism and communion. Every baptism is a reminder the blood of Jesus Christ is still sufficient to save sinners. Every communion is a reminder of the power of Christ's death to gather His people into one body and secure a new covenant with His blood. However, the church is not limited to baptism and communion for rhythms and reminders. Gathering with a small group of believers to pursue Jesus together is a rhythm that reorients your heart towards God. Taking a weekly sabbath is not just beneficial for rest, it is a reminder that God does not need you to accomplish His purposes. You can rest knowing God will accomplish all He needs through you. What are some ways you can build in spiritual disciplines, or other rhythms and reminders, to regularly reorient your life to God? Be creative! Meals, hikes, drives – all of these can be regularly used to remind you of the “strong hand” of the Lord in your life.