EXODUS

The book of Exodus received its name because it records Israel’s

departure (Greek exodos) from Egypt. The book recounts how God
graciously delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt, traces their journey
through the wilderness, and describes in detail the covenant God
made with them at Mount Sinai. In telling this story, Exodus highlights
the supreme faithfulness and mercy of God, and contrasts this with
Israel’s repetitive grumbling, rebellion, and sin. In so doing, this book
presents a condensed picture of the gospel. Simply put, Exodus shows
us that God saves sinners.
EXODUS IS THE TRUE BEGINNING OF THE STORY OF ISRAEL. GENESIS
DESCRIBES THE STORY OF THE INDIVIDUAL PATRIARCHS
EXODUS REVEALS OR ESTABLISHES CONCEPTS OF
 JEHOVAH- “I AM”
 PLAGUES
 JEWISH RELIGION
 TABERNACLE/PRIESTS/SACRIFICIAL SYSTEM
AUTHORSHIP AND DATE-
 MOSES- JOHN CH 5:46-47 FOR IF YOU BELIEVED MOSES, YOU
WOULD BELIEVE ME, FOR HE WROTE ABOUT ME, BUT IF YOU DO
NOT BELIEVE HIS WRITINGS, HOW WILL YOU BELIEVE MY
WORDS” AND JOHN CH 7:19
 WRITTEN AROUND 1445-1400B.C.
 

EXODUS IS A HISTORICAL RECORD FROM EGYPT TO CANAAN AND A

TRANSFORMATION FROM CLAN TO NATION. EXODUS PROVIDES THE
EXPLANATION HOW THE JEWS BECAME THE CHOSEN OF GOD.
MAIN CHARACTERS
 THE JEWISH PEOPLE
 GOD/YHWH
A) THE ONE AND UNIVERSAL GOD-EXODUS 3:15
B) GOD OF WRATH
C) GOD OF MERCY-MERCY IS A PRIMARY CHARCTERISTIC
D) THE GOD IS COMPLETELY HOLY
E) THE GOD OF ISRAEL
F) THE GOD OF THE MORAL LAW
 MOSES- A NEW ADAM. HE IS MOLDED BY GOD FOR GREATNESS DESPITE HIS
IMPERFECTIONS AND MISTAKES. HE KILLS AN EGYPTIAN, LIVES IN EXILE, REFUSES TO
SPEAK AS GOD’S REPRESENTATIVE, QUICK TEMPER EXPOSED WHEN HE THROWS
DOWN THE TABLETS THAT GOD HAD WRITTEN ON. HOWEVER, GOD PATIENTLY
BRINGS HIM TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY. DESPITE HIS FAILINGS HE NEVER ABANDONS
HIS FAITHFUL SERVICE TO GOD EVEN WHEN HE WAS TOLD HE WOULD NOT ENTER THE
PROMISED LAND.
A) THE MAN OF GOD
B) THE FOUNDER OF THE NATION OF ISRAEL
C) ROLE MODEL FOR THOSE WHO ASPIRE TO SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP
 EGYPT-REPRESENTS THE SYMBOL OF WORLDLY POWER
A) WORSHIP FALSE GODS
B) CONCENTRATE POWER
C) OPPRESS THE RIGHTEOUS
D) FIXATE ON MATERIAL PROSPERITY
E) OPPOSE THE KINGDOM OF GOD
F) FACILLITATE APOSTACY

EXODUS REVEALS THE FEATURES OF THE KING OF THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM

THEMES
 GOD’S FAITHFULNESS
 ISRAEL’S ORIGINS
 GOD’S NAME AND REPUTATION
 THE LAW
EXODUS HIGHLIGHTS THE TENSION BETWEEN GOD, ISRAEL, AND OTHER
NATIONS. THIS THEME RUNS THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE OLD TESTAMENT.
GOD SPEAKS FIRST TO PATRIARCHS
GOD SPEAKS TO MOSES, MOSES SPEAKS TO THE PEOPLE
GOD DELIVERS THE LAW, THROUGH WHICH HE SPEAKS TO THE PEOPLE

CH 1-18 EXODUS FROM EGYPT THE DELIVERANCE

God had given Abraham this promise. He told of both the prosperity and the
harshness the Israelites would face. God fulfills his promises (see Exodus Ch
34:6-7)

CH 1:1-2:25 MOSES’ EARLY LIFE

CH 3:1-7:7 MOSES’ CALL AND PREPARATION
CH 7:8-11:10 THE PLAGUES AGAINST EGYPT
CH 12:1-13:16 PASSOVER AND EXODUS
CH 13:17-15:21 DELIVERANCE AT THE RED SEA
CH 15:22-18:27 JOURNEY TO SINAI

CH 1:1-2:25 MOSES’ EARLY LIFE-ISRAEL ENSLAVED

CH 1:1-7 ISRAEL INCREASES GREATLY IN EGYPT

Ch 1:7 Israel was fruitful and multiplied and filled the land
THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL HAD ORIGINALLY MOVED TO EGYPT AFTER JOSEPH HAD
FOUND FAVOR IN THE PHAROAH’S EYES. JUST AS IN GENESIS, HUMANITY
REBELS AGAINST GOD.
CH 1:8-22 PHAROAH OPRESSES ISRAEL
Ch 1:8 AFTER MANY GENERATIONS (approximately 400 years) EGYPT OPRESSES
ISRAEL. THE NEW PHAROAH TRIES TO DESTROY ISRAEL.
Ch 1:10-22 Pharoah begins by making life hard for the Israelites by slavery, then
by proclamation to the mid-wives, and then by proclamation to all of Egypt to
throw male babies into the Nile.
Israel’s Multiplication (1:1–7)
ISRAEL ARRIVES IN GOSHEN. GOD BLESSES THEM AND THEY BEGIN TO
EXPERIENCE A RAPID POPULATION GROWTH.
FRUITFULNESS AND MULTIPLICATION. At creation, humanity was commissioned
to “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” (Gen. 1:28). This command was
repeated to Noah (Gen. 9:1, 7), and God promised the patriarchs that he would
enact this multiplication for them (Gen. 17:1–6; 22:17; 26:4; 28:3–4). We see this
promise fulfilled initially in this passage (Ex. 1:7), but God’s law makes it clear that
the continual fulfillment of this promise is contingent on the people’s obedience
(Lev. 26:3, 9; Deut. 7:12–13).

Israel’s Oppression (1:8–22)

VS 8-10 DESCRIBES PHARAOH’S LACK OF RESPECT FOR JOSEPH’S
CONTRIBUTION TO THE LAND OF EGYPT. HE ONLY SAW THE SIZE AND
STRENGTH OF THE “ISRAELITE PROBLEM”. HE DID THIS BY
 OPPRESSION-FORCED LABOR
 BIRTH CONTROL
 POGRAM AGAINST ALL MALE CHILDREN

Exodus 1:15–21, the midwives disobey Pharaoh’s decree to murder the Hebrew
children and are blessed by God for doing so. Although Scripture commands us to
“be subject to the governing authorities” (Rom. 13:1; see also Titus 3:1; 1 Pet. 2:13–
15), and that “whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed”
(Rom. 13:2), such subjection is not warranted when the governing authorities
command believers to violate God’s standards. In Acts 5, when the council of the
Sanhedrin interrogates the apostles concerning their violation of the command to
stop teaching in Jesus’ name, the apostles reply, “We must obey God rather than
men” (Acts 5:29).

CH 2
Moses’ Birth (2:1–10)
Moses’ Flight (2:11–25)
GOD TURNS PHAROAHS PLAN UPSIDE DOWN. MOSES IS BORN AND IS SAVED DESPITE PHAROAHS
DECREE TO KILL ALL ISRAELI BOYS UNDER THE AGE OF 2.

Vs 1-4 Moses’ birth and early survival. Moses is placed in a basket and then in
the Nile. The plan of our sovereign God is in action.
The basket with Moses is discovered by the daughter of Pharoah. The daughter
takes pity on the baby and she has compassion. God has worked in her heart to
spare Moses. Moses’ sister recommends to find a Hebrew woman to care for
Moses. His mother.
Vs 11 – 15 Moses is grown. He sees the oppression of his people and kills an
Egyptian, and then tries to resolve a dispute between 2 Hebrews and learns that
they also know he killed the Egyptian. Moses was compelled to flee to the land
of Midian.
Vs 16 –25 Moses intervenes on behalf of Ruel’s (Jethro) daughters. Ruel is
introduced. We see the value of hospitality. Moses eventually marries and has
children with Ruel’s daughter Zipporah. This may be viewed as a failure in the
sense that Moses does not seem to be on the path of a great leader. He seems
to have settled for a quiet married life. Of course, we know that this is not going
to be how Moses will be remembered.
The Midianites were descendants of the children of Abraham that he had
through Keturah.

GOD’S PROVIDENCE AND FAITHFULNESS

OPPRESSIONGROWTH AND PROSPERITY
VIOLENCEMULTIPLICATION
GENOCIDEMOSES IN THE ROYAL COURT

MOSES LIVED 120 YEARS-3 LIFE PHASES

1) AS ROYALTY-SON OF A PRINCESS
2) AS SHEPHERD-WILDERNESS OF MIDIAN
3) AS LEADER-LEADING ISRAELITES OUT OF BONDAGE
A MERCY-LOVING GOD. These opening chapters of Exodus mention God in only
two places: when the midwives spare the Hebrew boys (1:17–21) and when God
hears the Israelites’ groaning in their slavery (2:23–25). In the first case, God
rewards the midwives for mercifully sparing the Israelite children; in the second
case, God mercifully looks upon his people as they groan in their slavery. Although
Exodus contains many laws and commands that God will require his people to obey,
the book starts off with a focus on God’s supremely merciful character. It is only
after he has lavished mercy on his people that God gives them commands. This
mercy of God is reflected elsewhere in the Old Testament (e.g., in the provisions for
forgiveness in Leviticus), but it is most evident in the cross of Jesus. Just as God
looked at the plight of Israel in slavery to Egypt and was moved to rescue them, so
he saw the plight of our slavery to sin (John 8:34) and rescued us.
UNEARNED RELATIONSHIP. Exodus states that the reason God rescued Israel was
his faithfulness to his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (2:24; 6:5). This
covenant was founded on God’s grace, as Abraham did nothing to earn this special
relationship with God. Furthermore, when Israel was suffering in their slavery, it is
not clear that they cried out to God for help; the text simply says that they
“groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help,” and that this cry “came
up to God” (2:23). This ambiguity further emphasizes God’s initiative in coming to
their rescue and in establishing a relationship with them. Although neither Abraham
nor Israel deserved God’s relational commitment, he nevertheless bound himself to
them and promised to bless them (Gen. 12:2–3). Similarly, those who come to God
through faith in Jesus do nothing to merit this saving relationship; God in his grace
always takes the first step in bringing us to himself.

CH 3:1-7:7 MOSES’ CALL AND PREPARATION

CH 3
GOD reveals himself to Moses.
GOD SENDS MOSES TO EGYPT, AFTER HE HAD BEEN EXILED, TO RECUE ISRAEL (the burning bush). GOD
OVERPOWERS PHAROAH AND EGYPT’S gods TO WIN ISRAEL.

Approximately 40 years has passed. Moses has been far removed from Egypt
and the suffering of Israel.
Vs 1-3 The burning bush
THEOPHANYAPPEARANCE OF GOD IN SOME FORM
ANGEL OF THE LORDPre-incarnation appearance of Jesus as an angel
Vs 4-6 GOD introduces himself to Moses.
Vs 7-9 GOD tells Moses he knows that the Israelites are being treated harshly.
He ensures Moses that he will deliver them from Egypt.
BEFORE CALLING MOSES, GOD IDENTIFIES THE PROBLEM AND PROVIDES THE
SOLUTION HE IS BEING CALLED TO WORK OUT

MOSES VS GOD
 ROUND 1-I’M A NOBODY
 ROUND 2-I HAVE NO AUTHORITY
 ROUND 3-WHY WOULD THEY BELIVE ME?
 ROUND 4-PLEADS FOR A WAY OUT
1) LACK OF ELOQUENT SPEECH
2) ANYONE BUT ME
Vs 10- 12 God informs Moses that he will send him to Pharoah to deliver the
people from Egypt.
Vs 13-22 It is important to remember that society was pantheistic at this time.
Moses questions GOD about his identity. GOD answers I AM. The God of
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. Egypt and Israel will both be introduced to
GOD’s power.
I AM WHO I AM (THE LORD WORSHIPPED BY ABRAHAM, ISAAC, AND JACOB)

CH 4
Moses continues to express doubt and GOD continues to
demonstrate his power.
3 SIGNS OF AUTHORITY
STAFFSNAKESTAFF
HEALTHY FLESHLEPROSYHEALTHY FLESH
WATER-BLOOD
Vs 1- 9 GOD turns the staff to a snake and back to a staff and turns Moses’ hand
leprous and then back whole again, then water to blood. God knows who Moses
is and is beginning to teach Moses who he himself is and who GOD is.
Vs 10-12 GOD assures Moses that he is in control. GOD will accomplish what he
wants to accomplish.
Vs 13-16 GOD shows his righteous anger. GOD understands his weakness and
frailty and has compassion on Moses.
MOSES’ DEPARTURE
 GATHERS FAMILY
 BLESSING FROM JETHRO
 DIRECTIONS FROM GOD
1) MIRACLES
2) PHAROAH’S REFUSAL
3) ONLY DEATH OF FIRSTBORN WILL WORK
Vs 18-23 GOD tells Moses that the people that sought to kill him previously have
all died and to warn the new Pharoah.
Vs 24-26 This is an odd passage. As Moses is going back to Egypt it seems that
Moses had not kept the circumcision in regards to his son.
Vs 27-31 Moses and Aaron tell the people of what they have seen and heard
from GOD. The people believed. They realized they had a GOD that was near to
them.

CH 5
FIRST MEETING WITH PHARAOH

Vs 1 – Moses requests from Pharoah to let the Israelites free.

Vs 2- Pharoah refuses the request.

Vs 3- Moses pleads with the Pharoah.

Vs 4-14 - The Israelites likely assumed that GOD would immediately set them
free (based on their earlier response). Pharoah responds harshly by increasing
their required workload. He also likely understands this will turn the people of
Israel against Moses and Aaron.
 ACCUSATIONS OF PIETY COVERING FOR LAZINESS
 INCREASES THE DIFFICULTY OF THE WORK WITHOUT REDUCING THE
QUOTA
 GOAL IS TO BREAK THEIR SPIRIT

Vs 15- 16 – The Israelite overseers plead with Pharoah. The Israelites look to
Pharoah as their deliverer. It is important to remember that the Israelites are far
more Egyptian than Israelite.
Vs 17- 19 Pharoah remains harsh with the Israelites.
Vs 20-21 The Israelites begin to blame Moses and Aaron for their current
hardship.
Vs 22-23 Moses pleads and questions GOD.
LESSONS:
DEALING WITH GOD REQUIRES FAITH NOT REASON. ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE
FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE.
NEVER DOUBT GOD’S WORD.
IF GOD SENDS, HE PROVIDES.
IT WON’T BE EASY.

CH 6 The Lord restates his promise

MOSES AND AARON’S GENEOLOGY

Vs 1-5 The Lord reassures Moses that he will deliver the Israelites. GOD speaks
to Moses and introduces himself to Moses in a way he had not done before with
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. He reminds Moses he is a covenant keeping
GOD.
GOD’S NAME/HISTORY
  EL SHADDAI
 THE LORD-YAHWEH
 MADE PROMISE TO PATRIARCHS
 WILL REVEAL HIMSELF MORE IN THE FUTURE
 WILL FULFILL THE PROMISE MADE IN THE PAST

Vs 6- 8 GOD promises again to deliver the people of Israel. How compassionate

GOD is to give another chance. A faithful covenant keeper.

MOSES’ PRONOUNCEMENT TO THE PEOPLE

 MOSES WAS GOD’S SPOKESMAN
 GOD WILL REVEAL HIMSELF AND HIS PROMISE
 GOD WILL FULFILL HIS PROMISE TO THEIR ANCESTORS TO THEM

Vs 9 – Moses speaks to the Israelites and takes GOD’s message to the people.
The reality to the people is greater than the promise in their eyes. Even when
we are faithless GOD is faithful.
Vs 10-12 The Lord tells Moses to go back to the Pharoah and instruct him to set
his people free.
Vs 13- GOD reiterates that Moses WILL do what GOD asks of him.
Vs 14-27 The genealogy of the Israelites is documented.
THE GENEAOLOGIES
GENESIS-ABRAHAM-JACOB
EX 1:1-5 ISRAEL ARRIVES IN EGYPT
EX 6:14-27-ISRAEL-MOSES AND AARON
LESSONS:
1) GOD KNOWS HOW TO ENCOURAGE HIS SERVANTS-HE REMINDS AND HE ASSURES
2) TRIALS ARE SOMETIMES USED TO TEACH US ABOUT GOD-IT IS NOT ALWAYS ABOUT
US.
3) I CHANGE FOR BETTER OR WORSE. GOD NEVER CHANGES

GOD’S PROMISE OF SUCCESS CH6:28-7:7

IN THEIR FIRST CONFRONTATION GOD WAS PREPARING MOSES FOR THE
PHAROAH’S STUBBORNNESS.
“HARDEN PHAROAH’S HEART”
1) GOD KNOWS THE END OF ALL THINGS.
2) HE NEVER FORCES US TO CHOOSE ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.
3) OUR FREE WILL ALLOWS US TO RESIST GOD IF WE CHOOSE TO.
4) FOR THOSE WHO CHOOSE THE DOWNWARD PATH GOD LETS THEM GO
SO THAT THEIR JUDGEMENT WILL BE SURE
5) GOD KNEW WHAT THE PHAROAH WOULD CHOOSE AND LET HIM DO SO
RESULTING IN THE HARDENING OF HIS HEART.
Vs 28-30 Aaron designated to speak for Moses.
Vs 1 – 5 GOD reiterates again to Moses how he will deliver the Israelites despite
Pharoah’s resistance.
Vs 6-7 Moses and Aaron listened to GOD. They were 80 and 83 years old
respectively.

LESSONS
1) GOD CAN STILL TURN YOU OVER TO SIN IF THAT’S WHAT
YOU CHOOSE/WANT.
 EXAMPLE OF HARDENING-KING SAUL
 DISOBEYED  OFFERED SACRIFICE
 REJECTED DISCIPLINELOSS OF KINGDOM
 REFUSED REPENTANCETRIED TO KILL DAVID
 RESISTED GOD’S WILLHARDENED HEART/MADNESS
THE PHARAOH AND SAUL ARE EXAMPLES OF WHAT HAPPENS WHEN PEOPLE
COME FACE TO FACE WITH GOD BUT RESIST HIM. THIS HARDENS THE HEART.
KING DAVID
 DISOBEYED WITH BATHSHEBA, RECEIVED DISCIPLINE ACKNOWLEDGED
SIN
 REPENTEDSOUGHT FORGIVENESS
 ACCEPTED GOD’S WILL (BABY DIES)TENDER HEART PSALMS 32:1-11
PHASES OF DAVID’S EXPERIENCE
1) SUFFERING
2) RELIEF
3) RESOLUTION
DAVID IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF HOW REPENTANCE SOFTENS THE HEART, IT
OPENS OUR EYES, AND ENABLES GRACE.

SPIRITUAL REALITIES
RESISTANCEHARDENING OF HEART.
BELIEFDESIRE FOR GOD’S WILL. A BELIEVER WANTS THE MOST TO BE IN
CONCERT WITH GOD’S WILL. IT IS THE ONE THING WE HAVE TO OFFER TO GOD
AND THAT IS OUR WILL.
ABSOLUTE FREE WILL ENABLES
 LOVE FOR GOD
 SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT
 JOY, PEACE, REST IN CHRIST

 WITH GOD ITS NEVER TOO LATE TO BE USEFUL

AARON-FIRST HIGH PRIEST-83 YEARS OLD
 MOSES – FIRST LEADER OF ISRAEL-80 YEARS OLD
 WHAT LIMITS YOU DOES NOT LIMIT GOD

CH 7:8-10:29 THE PLAGUES AGAINST

EGYPT
God begins to deliver Israel by showcasing his sovereignty over Egypt through the plagues. By
repeatedly hardening Pharaoh’s heart, God creates an environment in which his gracious
salvation of Israel may be fully acknowledged. Ultimately, these chapters depict a power
contest between the Lord (represented by Moses and Aaron) and the gods of Egypt
(represented by Pharaoh). Although Pharaoh resists and disobeys the divine word, God will
eventually overpower him until he submits and releases the people.

Vs 8-13 Aaron’s staff becomes a snake. Pharoah’s sorcerers are able to replicate
this feat. Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. Pharoah’s heart became hard.
Vs 14-24 The plague of blood. Egyptian life revolved heavily around the Nile and
GOD instructs Moses and Aaron to turn it (the Nile) into blood as well as every
other water source. Pharoah’s sorcerers were also able to turn the Nile to blood
and Pharoah’s heart was hardened.

Ch 8 The Lord vs. the gods of Egypt

Vs 1-15 This plague is again tied to the Nile. Pharoah’s sorcerers were able to
replicate the feat which results in further hardening of Pharoah’s heart. It does
not appear that Pharoah’s sorcerers could remove the frogs since Pharoah asks
Moses and Aaron to remove the frogs.
Vs 16- 19 The dust of the land is turned to gnats. The magicians could not
replicate the feat and even tell Pharoah that this is the work of the Lord.
Vs 20-28 The Lord commands Moses to ask for release from Pharoah again and
if not, he will send swarms of flies on the land of Egypt. God makes a distinction
between the land of Goshen where the Israelites live and the rest of Egypt.
In verse 28-32 Pharoah tells Moses he will let his people worship in the
wilderness. Moses prays to GOD for the flies to leave and GOD answers Moses’
prayer but Pharoah hardened his heart again.

GOD KNEW PHAROAH WOULD RESIST, BUT STILL GAVE HIM MANY CHANCES. PHAROAH’S EVIL
REACHES A POINT OF NO RETURN. GOD ULTIMATELY BENDS PHAROAHS EVIL TO HIS PURPOSES AND
LURES HIM INTO HIS OWN DESTRUCTION.

FINALLY, PHAROAH RELENTS AND LETS THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL FREE. THEN AS SOON AS THE
ISRAELITES HAVE LEFT PHAROAH PURSUES THEM

God demonstrates his supremacy over Egypt and his faithfulness to Israel by sending plagues
against the Egyptians while protecting Israel from the destructive effects of the plagues.

10 PLAGUES (CH 7- 12)

THE PLAGUE OF BLOOD (Ch 7:14-24)
THE PLAGUE OF FROGS (Ch 8:1-15)
THE PLAGUE OF GNATS (Ch 8:16-19) Magicians
can longer replicate
THE PLAGUE OF FLIES (Ch 8:20-32) Israelites are
set apart
THE PLAGUE ON LIVESTOCK (Ch 9:1-7)
THE PLAGUE OF BOILS (Ch 9:8-12)
THE PLAGUE OF HAIL (Ch9:13-35)
THE PLAGUE OF LOCUSTS (Ch 10:1-20)
THE PLAGUE OF DARKNESS (Ch 10:21-29)
THE PLAGUE ON THE FIRSTBORN(PASSOVER) (Ch
11-12:32)

PLAGUE INTENSITY gods OF NOTES RESPONSE

EGYPT
WATER TO BLOOD WARNING REAL, BUT Khnum-guardian of Duplicated by magicians. Pharaoh shrugs
LIMITED. SYMBOLIC the river’s source Occurred in Goshen. off the event
OF FUTURE DISASTER Hapi- spirit of the
Nile/flooding
FROGS Emotional disgust for Heqet-Frog headed Duplicated by magicians. Pharaoh disturbed
Egyptians goddess, Occurred in Goshen. and lies to get
birth/fertility relief.
GNATS Emotional and Seb- Earth god of Not duplicated by Pharaoh refuses
physical discomfort Egypt. God of the magicians. to listen to advice.
dead and the earth in Occurs in Goshen.
which the dead are Attributed to the hand of
buried God.
FLIES Continued emotional Vatchit- Fly god of God separates Israelites Pharaoh
and physical Egypt. Guards all life and Egyptians. deceitfully
discomfort in the delta region. Plagues no longer affects negotiates.
Female goddess Israelites.
LIVESTOCK Economic loss and Mnevis, amon, Affects property, death Pharaoh hardens
physical affliction Hathor of livestock. heart but wants to
Egyptian god see if the Jews are
associated with bulls unscathed.
and cows’ fertility
BOILS PHYSICAL AFFLICTION SEKHMET-goddess of Magicians are also Pharaoh is
AND DISFIGUREMENT epidemics/healing. affected and not allowed unyielding
IMHOTEP-god of into the royal court
healing
HAIL Economic loss, loss in Nut- sky goddess Historical uniqueness for Some officials
 labor force, loss of Osiris- god of such a storm in Egyptian heed warning.
crops, loss of agriculture climate Pharaoh repents
livestock Shu- god of but then changes
atmosphere his mind.
LOCUSTS ECONOMIC LOSS, Seth-Deity of storms At pleading of the Pharaoh confesses
PHYSICAL AFFLICTION and disorder officials, Pharoah agrees his sin and asks
to negotiate for relief but once
provided changes
his mind.
DARKNESS Token symbol of Ra- Sun god. Most Dark in Egypt at midday Pharaoh makes a
death worshipped of all Light, however was concession but he
gods other than available in Goshen, refuses to yield.
Pharoah himself home of the Jews He furiously
dismisses Moses.
DEATH OF FIRSTBORN Real death visited A judgement on all No Jews killed. Pharaoh out of
upon every Egyptian Egyptian gods In the past Pharaoh had despair releases
first born person and including and attempted to reduce the all of the Israelites
animal especially the Jewish population by
Pharaoh himself killing every male baby.
Now God passes
judgement on Egypt by
killing every first born.

CHAPTER 11-
WEALTH TRANSFER
 NO NEGOTIATIONS WITH PHARAOH
 WEALTH TRANSFER- HOW-JUST ASK. WHY- EGYPTIANS MOTIVATED TO GIVE.
THE PLAGUE OF THE DEATH OF THE FIRSTBORN
 PROOF THAT GOD IS SUPERIOR
 FORCE EGYPT TO FREE ISRAEL

THE PASSOVER AND EXODUS CH 12:1-13:16

These chapters record the climactic finale of God’s plagues against
the Egyptians, in which the death of every firstborn in Egypt moves
Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. As God brings
judgment against Egypt, he gives Moses instructions for the
Passover sacrifice so that the plague of death “passes over” the
Israelite households. To commemorate this saving event, God
instructs the Israelites to keep the Passover and the Feast of
Unleavened Bread annually, and to set apart for the Lord every
firstborn male. By doing so, Israel was to keep the memory of God’s
gracious salvation alive throughout their generations.
CH 12:1-28 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PASSOVER AND FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREAD
VS 1&2 – THE ISRAELITE CALENDAR IS REARRANGED AROUND THIS DELIVERANCE FROM
EGYPT.
THERE WAS NO FUTURE FOR JEWS IN EGYPT
 EGYPTIANS ONLY USED THEM AS CHEAP LABOR
 EGYPTIANS FEARED THEIR NUMBER
 JEWS COULD NEVER ASSIMILATE INTO EGYPTIAN SOCIETY

JEWISH CALENDAR

VS 3-13 CONTAIN A SERIES OF INSTRUCTIONS FOR ISRAEL TO FOLLOW IN PREPARING THE

PASSOVER LAMB
VS 14-20 PROVIDE INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE ANNUAL FEAST OF THE UNLEAVENED BREAD
CH 12VS 29-42 FINAL PLAGUE AND EXODUS
LESSONS
 GOD JUDGES AND PUNISHES IN REAL TIME-WHEN WE PRAY, WE ASK GOD TO ACT IN
REAL TIME
 HEROD- ACTS CH 12:22-23
 ANNANIAS AND SAPPHIRE- ACTS CH5:1-9
 GOD CAN BRING JUDGEMENT DOWN ON INDIVIDUALS OR NATIONS WHENEVER HE
CHOOSES
 HEED THE WARNING
 PRAY FOR BIG THINGS-NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD. GOD IS NOT TOO SMALL-
SOMETIMES OUR PRAYERS ARE TOO SMALL.
CH 13:1-16 INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONSECRATING THE FIRSTBORN AND THE FEAST OF THE
UNLEAVENED BREAD
THE PASSOVER LAMB. The sacrifice of the Passover is one of the clearest pictures
of the gospel in the Old Testament. The Israelites were to sacrifice a spotless lamb
and smear its blood on their doorframes. When God brought his judgment of death
against the land of Egypt, he would see the blood of the lamb and “pass over” the
Israelites houses (Ex. 12:13). Building off this image, the New Testament presents
Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Just as
the shed blood of the Passover lamb covered the people of Israel so that God’s
judgment passed over them, so does Jesus’ shed blood bring forgiveness to those
who put their faith in him (Eph. 1:7). Therefore it is very fitting that the Gospels
record Jesus’ sacrificial death as occurring during the Passover festival (Matt.
26:2; Mark 14:1; Luke 22:15), making him the fulfillment of this Old Testament
ritual. In fact, this association is so strong that Paul actually identifies Jesus as “our
Passover lamb” (1 Cor. 5:7).
SALVATION THROUGH JUDGMENT. A pattern that reappears throughout
Scripture is God saving his people through judgment. While the flood brought
judgment upon the whole human race during Noah’s day, it simultaneously lifted up
the ark, saving Noah and his family (Genesis 6–9). Here in the exodus, God’s tenth
plague of judgment against Egypt also served as the catalyst for Pharaoh to release
Israel (Ex. 12:29–32).
GRACE-DRIVEN OBEDIENCE. Three different times in these chapters the Israelites
are instructed how to communicate to their children the significance of the rituals
described here. In each case, obedience in carrying out the ritual is grounded in the
grace of God’s salvation.
Substitutionary sacrifice is also central to this message and the gospel message.
This doctrine of substitution is reflected at various points throughout the Old
Testament, from the ram that God provided Abraham to sacrifice instead of his son
Isaac (Gen. 22:13) to the servant who suffers on Israel’s behalf in the book of Isaiah
(Isa. 53:4–6).

3 MAIN ORDINANCES GOD GAVE MOSES FOR THE

PEOPLE TO KEEP
PASSOVER (CELEBRATED THE 14TH DAY OF THE FIRST MONTH)
 NO FOREIGNERS
 FAMILY MEAL EATEN IN HOMES
 YEARLY OBSERVANCE
 ALL JEWS REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE
FEAST OF THE UNLEAVENED BREAD
 MONTH OF ABIB/NISAN
 REMOVE ALL LEAVEN
 14TH OF ABIB-PASSOVER
 14-21ST-EAT ONLY UNLEAVENED BREAD
 21ST DAY- DAY OF WORSHIP
 TEACHING OPPORTUNITY
CONSECRATION OF FIRSTBORN
 FIRSTBORN MALE (VS.15)
 COMPLETE OFFERING OF ANIMAL
 FIRSTBORN CHILD WAS REDEEMED
 UNCLEAN ANIMALS WERE REDEEMED

CH 13:17-15:21 DELIVERANCE AT THE RED SEA

GOD LEADS ISRAEL OUT OF EGYPT, SAVES THEM BY PARTING THE RED SEA, AND JUDGES
EGYPT BY BRINGING THE SEA BACK UPON THEM.
God fulfills his promises of deliverance by bringing Israel out of Egypt, leading them
along the edge of the wilderness, miraculously parting the Red Sea so they can pass
through on dry ground, and then bringing the waters back down upon the
approaching Egyptian army. This deliverance at the Red Sea is recalled throughout
the Old Testament as the ultimate example of God’s saving work (see, e.g., Ps.
78:13; 136:13–15; Isa. 11:10–16; Neh. 9:11) and opens the door for God to
communicate his will to Israel as he brings them to Mount Sinai.
Pillars of Cloud and Fire (13:17–22)

Crossing the Red Sea (14:1–31)

THE PEOPLE CHARGE MOSES WITH BEING WRECKLESS, STUBBORN, AND
MISTAKEN
FAITHFUL TO THE FAITHLESS. When God delivers Israel, he doesn’t wait for
them to believe before he saves them. Despite their fearful disbelief, he saves them
by his grace, which causes them to believe. As the Egyptians approached Israel at
the sea, the Israelites “feared greatly” (Ex. 14:10) and showed their unbelief by
rebuking Moses for bringing them out of Egypt (14:11–12). Nevertheless, God saved
them by bringing them through the Red Sea and sweeping the Egyptians away,
after which “the people feared the Lord, and they believed in the Lord” (14:31).
Similarly, Jesus accomplished his saving work on the cross for us while we were still
unbelievers. As Paul says, “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom.
5:8).

GOD’S PLAN FOR RESCUE

 PROVIDED A DIVINE RESCUE
 PROVIDED A FINAL PROOF
PASSING THROUGH THE WATERS. The means by which God saves Israel is by
having them pass through the waters of the Red Sea. This theme of passing through
water recurs at several points throughout the Bible. As Israel enters the Promised
Land, when the priests carrying the ark step into the Jordan River, it stops flowing so
the people can cross on dry ground (Josh. 3:13–17). Similarly, just before Elijah is
taken to heaven in a chariot of fire, he and Elisha separate the waters of the Jordan
and pass through on dry ground (2 Kings 2:8–15). Matthew records Jesus replaying
Israel’s early history, first going down to Egypt (Matt. 2:13–15) and then passing
through the waters of the Jordan in baptism (Matt. 3:13–17), which seems to
correspond to Israel’s Red Sea crossing. Followers of Jesus likewise pass through the
waters of baptism to identify with his death and mark our covenant relationship with
him. Paul authenticates this description of baptism as “passing through the waters”
by saying that Israel was “baptized into Moses” at the Red Sea (1 Cor. 10:2).
THE MIRACULOUS CROSSING
 PILLAR AND CLOUD PROTECT
 MOSES PARTS THE WATER AND PEOPLE CROSS OVER
 PHAROAH PURSUES INTO THE DRY LAND AND BECOMES CONFUSED
 MOSES RETURNS THE WATER THUS KILLING PHAROAH AND HIS SOLDIERS

The Song of Moses (15:1–21)

 TELLS THE STORY OF THE RESCUE BY GOD
 “SHIRAT HA YAM”- THE SONG OF THE SEA
 OLDEST PIECE OF SUSTAINED POETRY IN HEBREW HISTORY
 DECLARES WHAT GOD HAS DONE AND HOW IT AFFECTED BOTH ISRAEL AND
SURROUNDING NATIONS
 CONCLUDES WITH A RESPONSE FROM MIRIAM AND WOMEN
THE DIVINE WARRIOR. The theme of God as the divine warrior is prominent in this
passage. This theme reaches its climax in the song at the sea in chapter 15, where
the Israelites declare, “The Lord is a man of war; the Lord is his name”. The Old
Testament goes on to portray God as the divine warrior in Israel’s conquest of
Canaan (Deut. 20:4; Josh. 10:14), in his defense against Israel’s enemies during
their time in the Promised Land (e.g., 1 Sam. 7:10–12; 2 Chron. 32:21), and in
prophetic visions of end-time restoration (Zech. 14:3). Similarly, the New Testament
presents Jesus as the divine warrior, triumphing over the spiritual forces of darkness
on the cross (Col. 2:15) and empowering the church to engage in spiritual warfare
(2 Cor. 10:3–6). At his second coming, Jesus will return to earth as the divine
warrior, bringing full salvation to his people by bringing final judgment on his
enemies (Rev. 19:11–21).

CH 15 SONG OF THE SEA-THE LORD REIGNS AS KING

 HE CONFRONTS EVIL
 HE REDEEMS THE SLAVES
 HE LEADS HIS PEOPLE TO THE PROMISE LAND
 HE DWELLS AMONG HIS PEOPLE

CH 15:22-18:27 JOURNEY TO SINAI

ON THE JOURNEY FROM THE RED SEA TO MOUNT SINAI, THE ISRAELITES REPEATEDLY REVEAL
THEIR LACK OF FAITH, YET GOD CONTINUES TO SHOW HIMSELF FAITHFUL BY PROVIDING FOR
THEM.
THE GRACIOUS NATURE OF GOD’S PROVIDENCE: HE DOES NOT PROVIDE FOR HIS PEOPLE
BECAUSE THEY ARE FAITHFUL, BUT BECAUSE HE IS FAITHFUL.
God’s Provision of Sustenance (15:22–17:7)
THE LORD PROVIDES WATER
 MARAH=BITTER/SALTY
GOD ANSWERS MOSES’ PRAYERS IN ONE OF 2 WAYS
 KNOWLEDGE-DESALINATION OF THE BITTER WATER
 MIRACLES
BREAD FROM HEAVEN. Not long after expressing fear over the approaching
Egyptian army and experiencing God’s powerful salvation (Exodus 14), the Israelites
grumble that they have no food (16:2–3). As he did previously, here again God
graciously responds to their concerns and declares that he will “rain bread from
heaven for you” (16:4). God provided this heavenly bread—manna—for the entirety
of Israel’s wilderness wandering to sustain them throughout their travels (16:35).
Similarly, when Jesus was faced with 5,000 hungry followers, he also fed them with
miraculous bread (John 6:1–14). He then went on to identify himself as the living
bread that has come down from heaven (v. 51). Jesus notes that though Israel was
sustained by the manna in the wilderness, eventually they all died. However, those
who feed upon Jesus, the living bread from heaven, will live forever (v. 58).
FOOD PROVIDED BY GOD-EXODUS 16:5-21
 PEOPLE WERE TO GATHER 1 OMER EACH IN THE MORNING; ONLY GOOD FOR
ONE DAY
 THEY GATHERED 2 DAYS WORTH ON FRIDAYS
 THE LORD PROVIDED QUAIL AT EVENING
 THE PEOPLE QUARREL WITH MOSES
NO PAGAN RELIGION OF THAT TIME HAD A WEELY OBSERVANCE FOR THE PEOPLE
TO REST FROM WORK.
WATER FROM THE ROCK. Immediately after God provides this bread from
heaven, the Israelites quarrel with Moses and complain that they have no water to
drink. In response, God tells Moses to strike a rock, out of which water pours for the
people to drink (Ex. 17:1–7). Paul sees in this episode a foreshadowing of Jesus’
work, saying that all Israel “drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and
the Rock was Christ” (1 Cor. 10:4). Indeed, although the water from this rock
quenched Israel’s physical thirst, it pointed to the only fount that could quench their
spiritual thirst: God himself. Similarly, when passing through Samaria, Jesus told a
Samaritan woman that the water from Jacob’s well would satisfy her physical thirst
for a while, but that the living water he gives results in eternal life, quenching
spiritual thirst forever (John 4:10, 14).
REMINDER OF THE 4 QUARRELS WITH MOSES BY THE PEOPLE
  FORCED TO GATHER STRAW FOR BRICKS
 TRAPPED BETWEEN THE ARMY AND SEA
 AT MARAH
 WHEN THEY RAN LOW ON FOOD
QUARRELS WITH MOSES = TESTING GOD
God’s Provision of Leadership (17:8–18:27)
Israel’s battle against Amalek contains the last appearance of the “staff of God”
(17:9), which was the instrument used to bring the plagues against Egypt (e.g.,
4:17, 20; 7:17; 8:5, 16; 9:23), to part the Red Sea (14:16), and to bring water from
the rock (17:5).
SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP. Jethro advises Moses to select “men who fear God, who
are trustworthy and hate a bribe” to help govern the people (Ex. 18:21). These
qualifications for leadership are fundamentally concerned with spiritual maturity
rather than personal charisma or dynamic ability. Such spiritual requirements for
leadership are later reflected in Israel’s law of the king (Deut. 17:14–20) and Paul’s
instructions for elders and deacons (1 Tim. 3:1–13; Titus 1:5–9). In short, in order to
be a good leader of God’s people, one must first be a good follower of God himself.
JETHRO’S COUNSEL

 WARNS MOSES THAT THE LOAD HE IS BEARING IS TOO HEAVY

 HE ENCOURAGES MOSES TO TRAIN LEADERS OF 1000 PEOPLE, 100 PEOPLE, 50 PEOPLE, AND 10
PEOPLE TO HELP SHARE THE BURDEN

LESSONS

 THE PEOPLE/CHURCH BELONG TO GOD

 LEADERS ARE ALWAYS CRITICIZED
 GOD PROVIDES YOUR NEEDS, NOT YOUR WANTS
 GOOD LEADERS TAKE ADVICE

EXODUS SO FAR

 FREEDOM AND JOURNEY TO SINAI

 SACRED CALENDAR-PASSOVER
 CALNS TO NATION WITH DIVINE PURPOSE
 COVENANT BETWEEN GOD AND ISRAEL-FORMATION OF HOLY CHARACTER
JEWISH NATION WAS CREATED TO BE A HISTORICAL STAGE
UPON WHICH CHRIST WOULD APPEAR AND COMPLETE GOD’S
PLAN OF SALVATION.
EXODUS CONTENT
 THE COMMANDMENTS
 LAWS AND ORDINANCES
 MANNER OF WORSHIP
 PRIESTLY ORDER AND TASKS
 DESIGN AND BUILDING OF TABERNACLE
 HOLY DAYS AND FEASTS

CH 19 -24 GOD’S COVENANT AND COMMANDMENTS

WITH/FOR ISRAEL

COVENANT LAW AT SINAI CH 19:1-24:18

God communicates his covenant law to Israel at Mount Sinai, and the people embrace their
renewed covenant relationship with him.
In Scripture, covenants are a central means by which God interacts with humanity
and brings about his redemption. After Adam broke his covenant with God by
disobeying him (see Hos. 6:7), God made a series of covenants with Noah (Gen.
9:8–17), Abraham (Gen. 15:7–20; 17:1–14), Israel (Exodus 19–24), David (Ps. 89:1–
4; 2 Sam. 7:8–16), and Jesus (Matt 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20) to restore
humanity’s fractured relationship with him. Since Jesus is the perfect mediator of
the new covenant (Heb. 12:24), those who come to him in faith are secure in their
forgiveness.
GRACE BEFORE LAW. Throughout this section, God’s gracious acts on Israel’s
behalf consistently precede his calls for them to keep his covenant law. Before
communicating his legal requirements, God twice recounts his recent deliverance of
Israel from Egypt (Ex. 19:4–5; 20:2). Furthermore, God promises that his angel will
pave the way for Israel to enter the Promised Land before he exhorts them to obey
(23:20–21). This pattern of grace preceding law reflects the gospel, as we are saved
by faith in Christ solely by God’s unmerited grace, only after which, as a response to
this, are we then called to obedience and good works (e.g., Eph. 2:8–10; Phil. 2:5–
13).
Covenant Preparation (19:1–25)

1ST TRIP TO SINAI

 GOD IDENTIFIES HIMSELF AS THE GOD OF THE MIRACULOUS EXODUS
 GOD RESPECTS THE FREE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
 GOD PROPOSES A SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP-HIS CHOSEN PEOPLE, A KINGDOM OF
PRIESTS, A HOLY NATION
 SETS CONDITIONS-BLESSINGS FOR OBEDIANCE
MEETING AT THE MOUNTAIN
 THE PEOPLE AGREE TO THE TERMS
 GOD WILL SPEAK TO MOSES IN THE HEARING OF THE PEOPLE
 THE PEOPLE PREPARE FOR THE MEETING
 GOD GIVES MOSES AND AARON THE DETAILS OF THE COVENANT

Covenant Law (20:1–23:33)

The laws and statutes throughout these chapters are fundamentally concerned with
the welfare of others as opposed to the welfare of oneself .
CONCERN FOR THE OUTCAST. A core concern of the Sinai legislation is special
care for the marginalized and outcast of society. Several statutes outline the rights
of slaves (Ex. 21:2–11) and sojourners (22:21; 23:9), as well as widows, the
fatherless (22:22–24), and the poor (23:6, 11). Similarly, in his earthly ministry Jesus
displays a special concern for the outcast. He heals lepers (Matt. 8:2–3; Luke 17:12–
14) and a woman who was ceremonially unclean (Matt. 9:20–22), dines with tax
collectors (Matt. 9:10–13; 11:19; Luke 19:1–10), and shows compassion to
prostitutes (Luke 7:36–50) and adulteresses (John 8:1–11). Such care for the
marginalized is a foretaste of the personal and social wholeness that will exist when
Jesus’ kingdom comes in its fullness (Rev. 21:4).
Two major concerns of the laws themselves are care for the outcast (as noted
above) and the maintenance of justice within the community (e.g., in the laws
prescribing punishments for causing injury [21:12–32] and restitution for loss of
property [21:33–22:15]). These correlate respectively to the elements of mercy and
justice that are central to God’s character.

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS. GOD INSTITUTES A COVENANT.

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS
You shall have no other gods before Me. (Ch 20:3)
You shall make no idols. (Ch 20:4-6)
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. (Ch 20:7)
Keep the Sabbath day holy. (Ch 20:8-11)
Honor your father and your mother. (Ch 20:12)
You shall not murder. (Ch 20:13)
You shall not commit adultery. (Ch 20:14)
You shall not steal. (Ch 20:15)
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. (Ch 20:16)
You shall not covet. (Ch 20:17)

LAWS RELATED TO WORSHIP-EX. 20:23-26

LAWS RELATED TO SLAVERY -EX. 21:1-11
LAWS RELATED TO PERSONAL INJURY- EX. 21:12-27
LAWS REGARDING OXEN- EX. 21:28-36
CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY-EX. 22:1-17
CRIMES RELATED TO IDOLATRY-EX.22:18-20
LAWS REQUIRING COMPASSION-EX. 22:21-27
LAWS HONORING GOD-EX.22:28-31
DEMANDS OF JUSTICE-EX.23:1-9
LAWS RELATING TO KEEPING THE SABBATH-EX.23:10-13
THE ANNUAL FEASTS-EX.23:14-17
LAWS CONCERNING SACRIFICE-EX. 23:18-19
Covenant Confirmation (24:1–18)
The covenant is confirmed by the people declaring their allegiance to God (24:7), by
Moses sprinkling “the blood of the covenant” on them (24:8)—which likely served to
bind them to God ceremonially—and by the leaders enjoying a fellowship meal with
God (24:9–11).
THE BLOOD OF THE COVENANT. At the conclusion of the giving of the law, Moses
confirms the covenant that God made with Israel by sprinkling “the blood of the
covenant” on the altar (Ex. 24:8). Moses, the priests, and the elders then enjoy a
fellowship meal with God (24:9–11). This event prefigures the Last Supper, another
divine-human meal where Jesus says that the cup is “my blood of the covenant,
which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matt. 26:28; see also Mark
14:24).
RATIFICATION PROCESS OF THE COVENANT
 MOSES RECITES THE LAW TO THE PEOPLE- V3
 WORDS OF THE ARE WRITTEN-VS4
 ALTAR IS BUILT-VS4
 SACRIFICES ARE MADE AND BLOOD SPRINKLED-VS5-6
 BOOK OF THE COVENANT IS READ AND APPROVED BY THE PEOPLE-
VS 7
 PEOPLE ARE SPRINKLED WITH BLOOD-VS8
 LEADERS SHARE A MEAL WITH GOD-VS9-11

CH 25-31- GOD’S PLAN FOR THE TABERNACLE. THE BLUEPRINT.

God instructs Israel how to build the tabernacle and consecrate the priests, providing the
structure and servants needed for him to dwell with his people.
The detailed instructions throughout these chapters show that God desires his
people to worship him according to his specifications. However, other passages
reveal that God is not pleased with worship that is formally correct if one’s lifestyle
does not reflect a heart of faith (Isa. 1:11–17; Amos 5:21–24; Mic. 6:6–8).

The Items of the Tabernacle (Chs. 25–27, 30)

THE COLLECTION
 FREE WILL OFFERING
 VALUABLE GIFT
  TO BE USED FOR A PRACTICAL PURPOSE

GOD WANTS THE ISRAELITES TO BUIL D A SANCTUARY WHERE HE CAN BE

PRESENT TO INTERACT WITH HIS CHOSEN PEOPLE---THE TENT OF MEETING.
LIST OF ITEMS GOD INSTRUCTED MOSES TO MAKE
1) THE ARK OF THE COVENANT WITH THE MERCY SEAT (EX 25:10-22)
2) TABLE OF SHOWBREAD (EX 25:23-30)
3) THE GOLDEN LAMPSTAND (EX 25:31-40)
4) THE ALTAR OF INCENSE (EX CH30)
5) CURTAINS, BOARDS, SOCKETS, VEILS AND SCREEN (EX 26:1-37)
6) THE BRONZE ALTAR (EX 27:1-8)
7) COURT OF THE TABERNACLE (EX 27:9-19)
8) OIL FOR THE LAMP (EX 27:20-21)

The People of the Tabernacle (Chs. 28–29, 31)

The shoulder piece of the priest’s ephod has two onyx stones with the names of six
tribes inscribed on each (28:9–12), and the breast piece has 12 stones, each
representing one of the 12 tribes (28:17–21). By wearing these garments, Aaron
represents God’s people as he enters before the Lord.
  IN PREVIOUS TIMES FAMILY HEADS OFFERED SACRIFICE FOR THEIR
FAMILIES- NOAH, ABRAHAM, JACOB.
 NOW THE PRIESTS, LEVITES, WOULD CARRY OUT THESE DUTIES-
AARON AND HIS 4 SONS (NADAB, ABIHU, ITHAMAR, ELEAZAR).
 NADAB AND ABIHU WERE KILLED FOR OFFERING STRANGE FIRE.
 MEN BELONGING TO THE TRIBE OF LEVI WERE APPOINTED BY GOD TO
HELP THE PRIESTS IN THE WORK OF THE TABERNACLE.
CONSECRATION CEREMONY (EXODUS 29:1-46)
 PRESENTATION OF OFFERINGS VS 1-3
 WATER CLEANSING VS 4
 DRESSING AARON VS 5-6
 ANOINTING AARON VS 7
 DRESSING AARON’S SONS VS 8-9
 OFFERING AND CONSUMPTION OF SACRIFICE
1) BULL IS SACRIFICED-VS 10-14
2) FIRST RAM IS SACRIFICED-VS 15-18
3) SECOND RAM IS SACRIFICED-VS 19-34
4) SACRIFICES AND CONSUMPTION REPEATED FOR 7 DAYS- VS35-37
TYPES OF SACRIFICES
 SIN OR GUILT OFFERING- LEV. 4-6
 BURNT OFFERING- LEV. 1
 GRAIN OR MEAL OFFERING- LEV. 2
 FELLOWSHIP OR PEACE OFFERING-LEV. 2, 7:11-12
 WAVE OR HEAVE OFFERING LEV. 7
 DAILY OFFERINGS EX. 29:38-42
THE ALTAR OF INCENSE
THE TEMPLE WAS TO BE PAID FOR BY A TAX TO SUSTAIN THE PRIESTS AND
THE TABERNACLE.
THE BRONZE LAVAR WAS MADE FOR WASHING
THE ANOINTING OIL FOR THE MINORAH
THE INCENSE – CH 30:34-38
 SPECIAL RECIPE
 RARE AND EXPENSIVE INGREDIENTS
 REGARDED AS HOLY
 NOT FOR PERSONAL USE
 PUNISHABLE BY DEATH
THE PRIESTS AND TABERNACLE WERE IN SERVICE TO KEEPING THE
SABBATH.
TWELVE STONES/TRIBES. The 12 stones on Aaron’s breast piece represent the 12
tribes of Israel (Ex. 28:17–21). Just as God’s people consist of 12 tribes in the Old
Testament, stemming from the 12 sons of Israel (Ex. 1:1–7), so do God’s people in
the New Testament era stem from the 12 apostles of Christ (Eph. 2:19–20). In John’s
final vision of the New Jerusalem, the gates of the eternal city have the names of
the 12 tribes of Israel inscribed (Rev. 21:12), while the foundations of the city wall
have the names of the 12 apostles (Rev. 21:14). These foundations are also
adorned with 12 stones that correspond to the 12 stones of the priestly breast piece
(Rev. 21:19–20). Therefore, just as Aaron represented God’s people as he entered
God’s presence in the tabernacle, so do the gates and foundations of the New
Jerusalem show that all of God’s people—both old covenant and new covenant—will
dwell in his presence forever.
In the closing section (31:12–17), God commands Israel three times to keep the
Sabbath.

CHRISTIANS MUST DISTINGUISH BETWEEN WHAT IS HOLY AND WHAT

IS NOT.
PRACTICNING THIS CULTIVATES THE VIRTUE OF PIETY.

CH 32-34- COVENANT VIOLATION, INTERCESSION, AND RENEWAL.

PEOPLE WORSHIP GOLDEN CALF. ISRAEL BREAKS GOD’S LAW BUT GOD GIVES THEM A
SECOND CHANCE.
AARON

 MOSES’ OLDER BROTHER

 MOSES’ RIGHT HAND MAN
 HIGH PRIEST
 SONS-PRIESTS
 DID NOT ENTER THE PROMISE LAND (NUMBERS CH 20)
 PEOPLE MOURNED HIM FOR 30 DAYS

AARON’S FAILURE (EXODUS 32:1-6) AARON FAILS IN HIS LEADERSHIP WHILE MOSES WAS ON MOUNT
SINAI FOR 40 DAYS AND 40 NIGHTS. AARON TRIES TO PACIFY THE CROWD. HOWEVER, GOD SPEAKS
TO MOSES, NOT AARON. AARON KNEW THAT THEY SHOULD WAIT. HOWEVER, IT SEEMS HIS PRIDE
GOT IN THE WAY.

THE PEOPLE BROKE THE SECOND COMMANDMENT (EX. CH 20:4). THEY HONORED THE god APIS (AN
EGYPTIAN god). THE INTENTION WAS TO GIVE THE PEOPLE A SATISFYING WORSHIP EXPERIENCE
(SOUND FAMILIAR?)
Before Moses comes down the mountain, Israel breaks God’s law and thus
jeopardizes their right to have him dwell with them. After Moses
intercedes for the people, God graciously forgives their sin and reconfirms
his covenant with them, thereby opening the way for Israel to build the
tabernacle and enjoy God’s presence (Chs. 35–40).
Covenant Violation (32:1–35) The Golden Calf
In response to the people’s violation, God decides to destroy them and start over
with Moses (32:7–10), but Moses intercedes and God relents (vv. 11–14).
By desiring other gods (32:1) and making an idol for themselves (32:4), they
directly violate the first two commandments (20:3–4).
STIFF-NECKED PEOPLE. Four times in this passage Israel is referred to as a “stiff-
necked” people (Ex. 32:9; 33:3, 5; 34:9), reflecting the fact that they are inclined
toward disobedience and impenitence. After the fall, humanity’s natural inclination
has always been to rebel against God and not submit to his ways.
MOSES INTERCEDES WITH GOD ON BEHALF OF THE PEOPLE. GOD CHANGED
HIS COURSE OF ACTION BASED ON MOSES’ PRAYER. EX. HEZEKIAH,
SODOM AND GOMORRAH.
AARON RESPONDS TO HIS GREAT FAILURE BY MAKING POOR EXCUSES.
CONSEQUENCES OF AARON’S SIN
 PEOPLE SINNED
 LIVES LOST
 AARON’S REUTATION RUINED
PUNISHMENT FOR THE REBELLION
 PEOPLE DRINK THE BITTER WATER OF GUILT
 3000 LEADERS KILLED
 PLAGUE IN THE CAMP
Covenant Intercession (33:1–23)
However, despite this failure, God forgives his people based on Moses’ intercession
and his own abounding grace. In interceding for the people and requesting God’s
continued presence with them, Moses appeals five times for God’s “favor” (33:12,
13 [2x], 16; 34:9), which may also be translated as “grace.” God responds to this by
reaffirming his intent to accompany Israel based on his “favor” (33:17) and by
reconfirming his covenant relationship with them (34:10–28). In short, God forgives
his people’s failures not because they get their act together, but because of his
gracious and merciful character (see 33:19).
The catalyst for God’s forgiveness of the people in this section is Moses’
intercession. Four times in these chapters Moses intercedes for Israel, asking God to
forgive their sin and continue to accompany them to the Promised Land (Ex. 32:11–
14, 31–32; 33:12–16; 34:9). This focus on intercession that leads to forgiveness
ultimately highlights God’s merciful heart: he is willing to forgive his people who
have gone astray based on the appeals of another. This theological truth is shown
forth most clearly through the intercessory work of Jesus. Because Jesus stands
before God and thereby intercedes for his people, no one has grounds to condemn
them (Rom. 8:34) and they are saved “to the uttermost” (Heb. 7:25).
Covenant Renewal (34:1–35)
When God passes by Moses to proclaim his “name,” he gives him a full-length
description of himself, focusing on his merciful, gracious, patient, and faithful
character (Ex. 34:6–7). This self-description becomes a confession of faith
concerning God’s character throughout the Old Testament.

THIS IS GOING ON JUST AFTER THE ISRAELITES HAD AGREED TO THE COVENANT AND IN GOD’S
PRESENCE.

GOD DESCRIBES HIS OWN CHARACTER. (CH 34:6-7) “THE LORD IS MERCIFUL AND GRACIOUS, SLOW TO
ANGER, ABOUNDING IN COVENANT FAITHFULNESS. HE FORGIVES SIN, BUT WILL NOT LEAVE THE
WICKED UNPUNISHED.”

CH 35-40-CONSTRUCTION OF THE TABERNACLE

ISRAEL BUILDS A TABERNACLE. GOD FILLS IT BUT NOT EVEN MOSES CAN ENTER
The book of Exodus concludes with the construction of the tabernacle. In response
to God’s detailed instructions outlined in chapters 25–31, this final section records
the people obediently building the tabernacle according to God’s specifications.
After the tabernacle is built and assembled, the section ends with God descending
upon it through his glory cloud as he comes to dwell in the midst of his people.
Whereas Exodus began with Israel enslaved in the midst of Egypt, it ends with God
enthroned in the midst of Israel.
Tabernacle Preparation (35:1–36:7)
HEART-FELT GENEROSITY. The Israelites are portrayed in these chapters as
exceedingly generous in their giving toward the construction of the tabernacle.
Moses calls for all those who have a “generous heart” (Ex. 35:5) to contribute
toward the work, and the description of the people giving repeatedly focuses on the
“heart” of those participating (35:21, 22, 26, 29). In the end, the people give so
much that Moses tells them to stop because the craftsmen have more material than
they need (36:3–7)! Such heartfelt generosity is extolled throughout the Old
Testament in the law (Deut. 15:10–11; 24:19–22), the historical books (1 Chron.
29:6–9), and the poetic books (Ps. 37:21, 26; 112:5; Prov. 11:25; 22:9), as well as in
the New Testament (Matt. 19:21; Acts 10:1–2; Rom. 12:8; 1 Tim. 6:17–18). Perhaps
best representing this theme is Paul’s call for the Corinthian believers to give freely
toward a relief fund for the Jerusalem church. He says, “Each one must give as he
has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a
cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:7).
Tabernacle Construction (36:8–39:43)

Instructions Fulfillment

Tabernacle proper 26:1–37 36:8–38

Ark 25:10–22 37:1–9

Table 25:23–30 37:10–16

Lampstand 25:31–40 37:17–24

Altar of Incense 30:1–10 37:25–28

Anointing Oil and Incense 30:22–38 37:29

Altar of Burnt Offering 27:1–8 38:1–7

Bronze Basin 30:17–21 38:8

Court 27:9–19 38:9–20

Priestly Garments 28:1–43 39:1–31

Tabernacle Assembly (40:1–33)

AARON’S CONSECRATION---OFFERS A SACRIFICE FOR HIS OWN SINS AND
THEN FOR THE SINS OF OTHERS
LESSONS FROM AARON’S EXPERIENCE OF FAILURE
 EVEN GREAT PEOPLE FAIL
 FAILURES ARE NEVER FORGOTTEN BUT THEY ARE FORGIVEN
 FAILURE LAYS THE GROUNDWORK FOR IMPROVEMENT
GOD WITH US. A precious truth of the gospel is that not only does God save us by
his grace, but he also comes to live with us. This truth is evident in the story of the
exodus, as God saves his people from Egypt (Exodus 1–18) and then comes to live
with them in the tabernacle (chs. 35–40). This connection between salvation and
divine presence is summarized earlier in Exodus 29:46: “And they shall know that I
am the Lord their God, who brought them out of the land of Egypt that I might dwell
among them.” These two gospel elements—salvation and presence—are also
reflected in the names given to Christ at his birth. According to Matthew’s gospel,
when Christ is born, he is called Jesus, “for he will save his people from their sins”
(Matt. 1:21), and also Immanuel, “which means, God with us” (Matt. 1:23).