The book of Exodus is long, complex, and full of statutes—so why should we study it? Exodus is not only filled with iconic characters and events, but explores the foundational story of the Israelites and reveals an all-powerful, intimately personal God. In this six-session series, Rev. Dr. Phillip Pointer explores the major themes in the book of Exodus and helps us understand God’s redemptive plan for all humanity.
Faithfulness
Even when our lives are in chaos, we can rest, knowing that God will remain faithful to fulfill his promises. Like the Israelites who were finally answered in all their groans year after year, we too can have faith that God will answer us when we call on him.
What situations do you need God to speak into, answer, or fix? No matter how long you have to wait, he will not abandon you in your time of need.
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Handout
Personal God
Not only is God faithful, but he is also a personal God—present and knowable. He wants a relationship with his people and is available when we cry out to him. For Moses, that looked like his presence manifesting in a burning bush. For us, he has sent his Son and the Holy Spirit who promises to be with us at all times.
How has God shown himself as a personal and relatable God in your life? Reflect on what you learned about God’s presence and thank him for making himself known to you in a miraculous way.
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Handout
Deliverance
God’s people doubted their future as they escaped slavery in Egypt. But God showed his power by delivering them from their enemies and performing miracles that they would remember forever. We, too, can live in victory knowing that the spiritual war we’re fighting has already been won by Jesus Christ. God delivered Israel and remains faithful to deliver us as well, even when our lives seem to be filled with trouble and hardship.
If he has been faithful in the past, he can be trusted today. No matter what situation you are in, you can rest in his plan for your life.
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Handout
Covenant
Dr. Pointer ended our session with a gentle reminder—everything done by God is rooted in his character. We can trust him, not just because of what he has done, but who he is. If he has been faithful to keep his covenant in the past, then we know he can be trusted with our lives today.
The question we must wrestle with is if we will trust him. Are we willing to put our trust in God instead of the idols in our life? He is infinitely more able, trustworthy, and loving than anyone else in our lives. Trust him with tomorrow as you obey him today.
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Handout
Holiness
God’s holiness does not change, nor does his desire for holiness in his people. And fortunately for us, God did the work of making us holy, allowing us to do good works from a place of grace, rather than obligation. God is not waiting for us to get our act together—he loves us and has already saved us. We now get to live in light of what he has already done.
As his priests, we now get to live in the freedom of serving him. Everything you do can become an act of worship and point people to God. How will you serve him?
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Worship
Despite the Israelites’ constant disobedience and complaining, God remained faithful to them. We are not so different from Israel. It doesn’t take long for us to get frustrated with God, to turn to idols for comfort, or to grumble when life doesn’t go our way. But God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. His love will never change.
Take some time to reflect on everything you’ve learned in this series about God’s character. Ask God to help you live your life in a way that reflects your relationship with him—that you’re rescued from the power of sin, chosen for a personal relationship, and part of his kingdom of priests as light in a dark world.
Resources
Handout