Exodus: A Group StudySample

What is this passage saying?

As Israel begins its journey to the Promised Land, Yahweh directs them away from the Philistines and into the wilderness, guiding them by a pillar of cloud and fire. Moses fulfills the request of Joseph to bring his bones back to the Promised land.

What is this passage teaching?

There are three truths in this passage. First, Yahweh understood the needs of His people by directing them away from the Philistines. He knew their fickle hearts were not yet ready to battle another nation. Second, Joseph’s faith was made sight as his remains are carried out of Egypt into the wilderness with Israel. Four hundred years before the Exodus, Joseph trusted Yahweh to fulfill his promises and “greeted them from afar” (Hebrews 11:13, 22). Finally, Yahweh graciously guides His people as a pillar of cloud and fire. As they wander in the wilderness, they were constantly reminded that Yahweh’s presence goes before them, leading them to holiness in Him.

How do I respond?

Have you ever been upset or frustrated with God that your life did not turn out as you expected? This passage reminds us that God knows what you need far better than you do. Sometimes missed opportunities or shut doors are monumental graces of God, protecting you from destruction. Like Joseph, your faithfulness and prayers may reap harvests hundreds of years after you have died. Although our God does not manifest Himself as a pillar of cloud and fire today, you have the Holy Spirit dwelling inside you to lead and guide you towards holiness in Christ. As you navigate the wilderness of this life towards the Promised Land of eternal life, you can trust God to lead, guide, and protect you every step of the way.