We come to the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14. This is the iconic image of the book. Exodus literally means "the way out" - and here is God making a way for his people where there was no way. That's a message we need to hear right now.
Discussion Questions:
It’s understandable that the Israelites “feared greatly” when Pharaoh’s army showed up (v.10). However, read Exodus 4:29-31. How is that different from what they claim in v.12? How do our fears lead us to re-narrate our past? Why is it so hard for them and us to remember what God has done for us in the past? Can you think of similar situations in your own life?
A change of location (or even 'physical distance') does not ensure they have fully escaped their slavery? What are some ways our society is struggling with that same problem now? How are you struggling with that right now?
Egypt is preparing to crush Israel, yet what hope does Moses give the people (v.13-14)? Considering the doubts they had just expressed (v.11-12), what does this reveal about God? Are God's promises to us contingent on us 'getting it right' all the time? How might that encourage you? When did God get it right even though you were getting it wrong?
Paul connects this event to baptism (1 Corinthians 10:1-3). How might baptism similarly be an initiation into our new identity in Christ? The word "baptize" means 'to cleanse.' How are both an outward sign by which God demonstrates the work he is doing inside his people? Can you give a personal example of this working out in your own spiritual life?
Jesus said that those who believe in him have "crossed over from death to life" (John 5:24). The Israelites could literally say that about God here. How might this image equally apply to Jesus fighting for us and leading us through the 'waters'?
After this crossing, we are told the people "fear the Lord" and believe in Him (v.31). Does that mean their struggles are over? Though the Israelites may have a new outward sense of status or identity after this event, how might their inward character still be a problem after this? Give an example of how you can relate to this inward struggle.
Is God's agenda simply to rescue them from Egyptian slavery? Recall the refrain of Moses: "Let my people go... so they can worship!" (Ex.4:23; 8:1; 9:1; etc.) If God is not simply being narcissistic, why do we need worship in our lives? What does it cultivate?
Hebrew scholar Jonathan Sacks said, "Memory is essential to identity." This passage is cited more throughout the Old Testament, and frequently to remind Israel who they are in the midst of trials. For example, look at Asaph in Psalm 77:1-3,16-20. Why is Asaph reminding himself of this past event? If the Exodus is the Gospel in the Old Testament, how might the cross function in the same way for us?
What did you need to hear in the sermon?
