Out of Egypt
Teaching Pastor; Staff Governing Elder; Staff Director
As the Israelites begin their exodus out of Egypt, Yahweh sets some of the terms of their relationship with him. He institutes the festival of Passover, a yearly commemoration of their deliverance. The consecration of Israel’s firstborn reminds them that they belong to God—while also foreshadowing the redemptive work of Christ.
Study Questions
Application
What are some ways you create intentional rhythms of looking back and thanking God for what he’s done in your life? If commemoration isn’t something you regularly practice, how can you start this week?
What is something you are “robbing” God of (e.g., time, money, talent)? Why are you withholding it from him? What does this expose about your heart?
Key Points
The Kingdom of God is, and has always been, diverse.
For the Israelites, circumcision was the outward symbol of inward faith. As believers, we are circumcised spiritually when God cuts away our sinful nature and gives us a new heart and identity.
Faith is choosing to remember what God has done and remaining distinct from the world.
As Paul says, we are “slaves of Christ,” who redeemed us with his blood. Slavery to God is the greatest freedom we will ever have.
Everything in the Exodus set the stage for Jesus, the firstborn Son who redeems us and gives us new life.