Bible Study

Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon:

.

Sermon Notes

Introduction

• Illustration: rise of genetic testing → search for ancestry & health.

• Studying Exodus is like doing “spiritual DNA testing” → roots of Christian identity & health.

• Aim: overview of Exodus → background + major themes.

I. Exodus as Continuation of Genesis (1:1–7)

• Begins with “And…” → continuation, not a new story.

• Recap of Genesis: Abraham, covenant, Joseph in Egypt.

• Exodus picks up with Israel flourishing in Egypt (v.7).

• Problem: they are numerous, but not in the Promised Land; now enslaved.

II. The Overarching Theme: Covenant Relationship

• God’s actions in Exodus (plagues, Red Sea, Law, Tabernacle) flow from covenant.

• Definition of covenant:

  • A relationship, based in grace.

  • God commits himself fully.

  • Calls for trusting, faithful obedience.

  • Leads to blessing and flourishing.

• God remembers his covenant with Abraham (Ex. 2:24 ).

III. Three Sub-Themes of Exodus

1. Deliverance (ch. 1–18)

   • God rescues Israel from slavery in Egypt.

   • Freedom is not doing whatever we want, but serving God.

2. Law (ch. 19–24)

   • The 10 Commandments as a gift, not legalism.

   • Law preserves freedom & teaches human flourishing.

3. Presence (ch. 25–40)

   • God dwells with his people in the Tabernacle.

   • Not a distant God—he desires to be near.

IV. Fulfillment in Christ

• Covenant: Jesus establishes the new covenant in his blood (Luke 22:20 ).

• Deliverance: Cross and Resurrection free us from sin, Satan, and death.

• Law: Jesus fulfills the Law and teaches true Kingdom living.

• Presence: Jesus “tabernacles” among us (John 1:14 ); the Spirit now dwells in believers.

Discussion Questions:

1. What's your general feeling about the Old Testament?
2. How is a covenant different from other relationships?
3. What's the difference between "freedom from" vs. "freedom for"? How does that apply to a relationship with God? Where do we see that in Exodus?
4. How can you tell when God's Law is being misused or abused? What did Jesus think about God's Law?
5. How do Jesus and the Holy Spirit fulfill the role of the Tabernacle?

Resources

If you would like to dig deeper into Exodus, we recommend these resources:

• How to Read Exodus - a short, accessible overview with discussion questions  
• Bible-Study on Exodus - a 12-week Bible study with homework questions
• Bible Project Guide - videos, articles, and Q&A explaining Exodus
• Exodus Commentary - a detailed explanations of each passage, perfect for deeper study

Questions?

Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester (

).