As we continue our study in the book of Exodus, Josh describes the "deep social conflict and violence" and the character of Moses in 2:11-22. What we find is an escalating struggle between the Hebrews and the Egyptians, and a "home-less" or "identity-less" Moses, who consistently (if not impetuously) advocates for the "weak." We are also provided a snapshot of the plight of the "Israelites," and the beginning of God's response.
the restoration project. Joshua James. 12 February 2017
Small Group Study Questions:
(1a) Walter Brueggemann claims, "This material in vv. 11-22 ... forces the narrative of Moses into the arena of deep social conflict, and of violence and brutality that are inescapable in an unjust society.” Have you considered the violence involved in the early chapters of Exodus (particularly in the reign of the king(s) of Egypt)? Would you ever teach your kids (or someone else's kids) about these stories? How?
(1b)Can you describe the "deep social conflict" that occurs in Exodus between the Hebrew people and the Egyptians? Are there resonances with some of the deep social conflicts in our context?
(2)Have you thought about the age of Moses at various points in his life? Do you think it is "too convenient" that Stephen says he is 40 during this narrative, and Exodus claims he is 80 when he goes to meet Pharaoh, and then later, he is 120 at the time of his death? Does your view of the Bible necessitate that these numbers are "accurate"?
(3)Does it trouble you that Moses kills the Egyptian slave master? What do you do with it?
(4)Moses and Zipporah name their son, "Gershom." What does this mean and why is it significant?
(5) Have you noticed that the cries of the Israelites in vv. 23 are not directed to anyone in particular? If Moses is 40 years old when he goes out to his people and 80 when he finally appears before Pharaoh ... why has God waited so long to "hear, remember, look, and know"? (What does Genesis 15:13-16 have to do with anything?)
