Good evening. Today we are going to continue in our study of the book of Exodus. Last time I told you that we would be looking at chapters 14-16. But after putting things together this week, I decided that we would look at chapter 17 tonight as well. So our chapters that are going to be discussed tonight will be Exodus chapters 14-17.
Now, before we get started, let’s begin with a word of prayer. Let’s Pray!
As we begin tonight, what was you most frightening experience in water? (Shannon)
Well, as we start this evening, we begin with a story that deals with the drowning of the Egyptians. We are actually going to begin with the last part of chapter 13 tonight. So whoever has the first 2 keys, go ahead and read them at this time please. (READ 13:17-14:12, 14:13-31)
As a result of the 10th plague, Pharaoh finally decided to let the Israelites go. But the Israelites’ joy quickly turned to fear as they faced unexpected obstacles on their journey.
Why do you suppose God hardened Pharaoh’s heart in this story?
Why do you think the Lord chose this way of escape for the Israelites?
How do you feel about the Israelites’ reaction to their situation?
When you are caught between a rock and a hard place, how do you usually react?
How do you think the Israelites would have described God to someone who had not seen these events firsthand?
At this time, allow me to go ahead and read for you what the commentary has to say about chapter 14. It says, (READ COMMENTARY)
Now, before we move on this evening, does anyone have anything that they would like to add?
Well, if that is all there is, we will move on and take a look now at chapter 15. Before we look at this story, tell me how you celebrate a long awaited goal or unexpected victory?
Well, in this next song, we see the Israelites’ celebrating what God had done for them. But then we see them quickly start grumbling once again. Whoever has the next 2 keys, go ahead and read them. (READ 15:1-13, 15:14-27)
What was the cause for these people breaking into song?
What is noteworthy about Miriam’s role in this celebration?
As we look at the next section, how can these people turn from prison to praise to protest so quickly?
Why didn’t God just lead them to sweet water in the first place?
At this time, let me go ahead and read what the commentary had to say about this chapter. It says, (READ COMMENTARY)
Now, before we move on, does anyone have anything that they would like to add?
Well, if there is nothing else, we will move on and take a look at chapter 16. What is the strangest thing that you have ever eaten?
What food could you eat everyday if need be?
Well, in this next chapter, we see the Israelites eating this new food, and having to rely on it each day. Whoever has the next 2 keys, go ahead and read those for us please. (READ 16:1-18, 16:19-36)
Now, let’s review. God has just delivered the Israelites from bondage in Egypt and miraculously led them through the Red Sea. Now the Israelites start an ongoing cycle of complaining. They have already complained about he lack of water, now they complain about the lack of food.
How can they complain so soon after just seeing God’s miraculous power?
If you had been Moses, how would you have responded to the people’s complaints?
If they hadn’t grumbled, would God have heard and answered their needs?
What lessons was God teaching the Israelites through the Manna?
What were the requirements and the meaning behind them in association with the Manna?
Why did God provide food that would only last for one day?
What do you think was the reasoning for the Sabbath?
At this time, allow me to read for you what my commentary had to say about chapter 16. It says, (READ COMMENTARY)
Before we move on this evening, does anyone have anything that they want to add?
Well, if that is all, let’s move on and finish with chapter 17. What do you find yourself complaining about the most?
Well, after bringing the Israelites out form their bondage in Egypt, God quieted their complaints and met their every need. Now God continues to help Moses deal with the demands and stress of leading such a large group of people. Whoever has the last key, go ahead and read that for us please. (READ 17:1-16)
If you had been wandering homeless in the desert, what would you have said to Moses?
How would you describe Moses’ response to the complaints of the people?
What do you usually do when you get frustrated?
Why did the Israelites only win the battle when Moses’ staff was raised?
Who has held up your arms during times of crisis and great stress?
How are you being an Aaron or Hur and giving support to others?
Right now, allow me to go ahead and read for you what the commentary has to say about chapter 17. It says, (READ COMMENTARY)
Now, before we close this evening, does anyone have anything that they would like to add?
Well, if that is all, for next week we will take a look at chapters 18-20 or 21. We will have to wait and see what we can get through next time.
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