Exodus: A Group StudySample

WEEK 7 INTRODUCTION: VICTORY & DEFEAT

As Israel escapes Pharaoh and his armies, they encounter another enemy in the wilderness: their hearts. Even though Yahweh demonstrated His power and faithfulness, again and again, the hearts of the people were still plagued by doubt and unbelief.

What is this passage saying?

The Israelites become fearful as the Egyptians pursue them in the wilderness. As they arrive at the Red Sea, Yahweh miraculously parts the waters, and the Israelites walk through on the dry ground. After they cross the sea, Yahweh closes the waters on the pursuing Egyptians, defeating Pharaoh’s armies.

What is this passage teaching?

Imagine the scene in Exodus 14. The Israelites had finally fled Egypt with the clothes on their back and the plundered gold of their Egyptian neighbors. As Pharaoh and his army pursued them, the people of Israel realized they had no weapons or training to fight. Terror spread throughout the camp, inciting the Israelites to ask Moses, “Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness?” (Exodus 14:11). However, Israel’s faithlessness is only matched by Yahweh’s patience. After parting the sea, the Israelites walk through on dry ground and the Egyptians are consumed by the sea. Yahweh had finally delivered His people from their enemies. Yahweh triumphed gloriously over Pharaoh, the Egyptians, and their gods.

How do I respond?

When faced with impossible situations, it is easy to doubt God and His plans. Like the Israelites, you may be tempted to say, “Have you brought us so far just to leave us now? You should have just left us as slaves.” If you are in a moment of intense darkness – where death and destruction are the only things you can see – be encouraged by Moses’ exhortation to the Israelites: “Fear not, stand firm, and see Yahweh’s salvation” (Exodus 14:13). Again and again, God has proven Himself faithful to you. In the stormy seas of your trials and the deep sinfulness of your heart, God has walked with you every step of the way. Do not fear, stand firm in His loyal love for you, and see what God will do.