1. Servitude in and Deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 1:1-15:21)
A. Growth, Bondage, and Survival (Exodus 1:1-2:25)
As Joseph recedes from memory, Israel enters into ever-intensifying bondage in Egypt until they cry out and get noticed.
B. Call and Preparation of Moses (Exodus 3:1-7:7)
Moses is called by God to bring Israel out of Egypt; early preparations encounter resistance.
C. Plagues (Exodus 7:8-10:29)
God both solidifies and breaks down Pharaoh’s resistance.
D. Preparations for Departure and Commemoration (Exodus 11:1-13:16)
The institution of the PassoverPassover commemorates the deliverance of the Hebrew people from Egypt as described in the book of Exodus. It is celebrated with worship and a meal on the fourteenth day of the month called Nisan, which is the first month of the Jewish year. The time… More centers Israel’s preparation for leaving Egypt.
E. Crossing at the Sea (Exodus 13:17-14:31)
At the sea, God defeats Pharaoh and his forces, and Israel moves outside of Egypt.
F. Songs at the Sea (Exodus 15:1-21)
Israel celebrates the victory of their God.
2. Journey to Sinai (Exodus 15:22-18:27)
A. Testing God (Exodus 15:22-17:7)
God tests Israel’s obedience and provides for their needs while Israel tests God through challenging Moses’ leadership.
B. Defeat of the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8-16)
Israel encounters its first enemy outside of Egypt.
C. Structuring for Everyday (Exodus 18:1-27)
Moses tells his father-in-law what God has done, and his father-in-law offers suggestions for handling the routine affairs of governance.
3. Revelation at Sinai (Exodus 19:1-24:18)
A. God at Sinai (Exodus 19:1-25)
In a theophanyTheophany describes the undoubted appearance of God to human beings. Biblical examples of theophany are the appearance of God to Moses in the burning bush and God’s appearance to the disciples on the mount of Transfiguration. More, God appears to Israel and Israel pledges its obedience.
B. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-21)
The Ten Commandments are disclosed directly to Israel.
C. The Book of the CovenantA covenant is a promise or agreement. In the Bible the promises made between God and God’s people are known as covenants; they state or imply a relationship of commitment and obedience. More (Exodus 20:22-23:33)
Moses receives statutes and ordinances that govern both Israel’s social relationships and sacrificial calendar.
D. The Covenant Sealed (Exodus 24:1-18)
Israel and God seal their covenantal relationship
4. Instructions for Tabernacle and Priesthood (Exodus 25:1-31:18)
Moses receives instructions for building the tabernacleThe tabernacle, a word meaning “tent,” was a portable worship place for the Hebrew people after they left Egypt. It was said to contain the ark of the covenant. The plans for the tabernacle are dictated by God in Exodus 26. More, for its furnishings, and for priestly garments.
5. Rebellion, Forgiveness, and Renewed Presence (Exodus 32:1-34:35)
A. The Golden Calf (Exodus 32:1-6)
Israel constructs a golden calf in the absence of Moses.
B. Dialogue: Petition, Forgiveness, and Presence (Exodus 32:7-34:9)
God decides to abandon Israel, but Moses succeeds in petitioning God to forgive and to remain among Israel.
C. Covenant Renewed (Exodus 34:10-35)
The covenant between God and Israel is renewed by God.
6. Following Instructions (Exodus 35:1-40:38)
In an act of obedience, the tabernacle and priestly garments are made exactly as instructed.
