I Will Obey GOD'S Commandments - Exodus 19 - 20 - July 30, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – I Will Obey GOD’S Commandments - July 30, 2006

This is our final lesson in our series “My Declaration of Dependence.” Also there will be no lessons for the month of August unless my schedule changes.

Our journey has taken us from the Mountain of GOD/Mount Sinai beginning with the call of Moses on the mountain, Moses meeting Aaron on the mountain, their journey to Egypt and their journey back with the Israelites to the Mountain of GOD.

In the three (3) months since they left Egypt, GOD has delivered the Israelites from the bondage of slavery, had Pharaoh to provide them with many provisions for their journey, guided them with a cloud by day and a pillow of fire by night, delivered them from the mighty Egyptian army by parting the Red Sea and provided them with water and food. GOD has revealed Himself to the Israelites through these experiences. GOD has tested them to show them that HE is all powerful and can care for them. GOD makes it clear to them that they must be obedient to HIM and the tests have been designed for them to learn about and practice obedience.

GOD has revealed Himself to them in a real and personal way. He has chosen them as HIS people and HIS nation. They will reveal HIM to the world. The crowning revelation of Himself, HIS love and HIS power will be through HIS ONLY SON JESUS.

This deliverance and journey of the Israelites is a graphic picture of our journey as a Christian.

Before CHRIST, we too were in the bondage to sin and death. But GOD delivered us from this bondage through the shed blood our SAVIOR and LORD JESUS CHRIST. As the blood of the lamb spared the Israelites first born from death, GOD gave HIS FIRST BORN to shed HIS blood so that we too can be delivered and be set free from the bondage and slavery to sin and death, forever.

All each human has to do is ask CHRIST to forgive them of their sins, believe that JESUS died for them, rose from the dead and acknowledge these facts by asking CHRIST to come into their lives.

Once we are born into GOD’S family through the miracle of rebirth, GOD equips us with provisions for our journey. HE equips us with the HOLY SPIRIT WHO is our guide through the brightest and the darkest moments of our lives. The HOLY SPIRIT is with us every moment of our lives and is our complete assurance that we belong to GOD and that GOD is with us. HE gives us the gift of grace because HE knows we will sin but when we confess our sins, HE cleanses us and restores us.

When the enemy pursues us, it is GOD WHO defeats the enemy or opens the path for us to escape. When we thirst, HE provides us with the living water. When we are hungry, HE provides the BREAD of Heaven to sustain us each moment until we safely reach our Promised Land of Heaven. When we arrive safely at heavens door, HE fully redeems us and we dwell with our LORD eternally.

GOD has placed the HOLY SPIRIT into each believer’s heart as a security deposit and as a down payment so that we will know these facts are true and confirms that we are HIS children.

Romans 8:16:

16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children

Our background scripture is Exodus 19:1 – 20:21.

Our focus scripture is Exodus 19:1-6; 20:1-17.

Let’s Read Exodus 19:1-6:

1 In the third month, on the same day [of the month]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that the Israelites had left the land of Egypt, they entered the Wilderness of Sinai. 2 After they departed from Rephidim, they entered the Wilderness of Sinai and camped in the wilderness, and Israel camped there in front of the mountain. 3 Moses went up [the mountain]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain: “This is what you must say to the house of Jacob, and explain to the Israelites: 4 You have seen what I did to the Egyptians and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Me. 5 Now if you will listen to Me and carefully keep My covenant, you will be My own possession out of all the peoples, although all the earth is Mine,[1] Dt 26:18; Ps 135:4 6 and you will be My kingdom of priests and My holy nation.[2] 1 Pt 2:9; Rv 1:6 These are the words that you are to say to the Israelites.”

The Israelites left Egypt three (3) months ago. They have entered the Wilderness of Sinai and camped at the Mountain of GOD or Mount Sinai or Mount Horeb. This is the same mountain where Moses was called by GOD to be HIS representative when HE delivered the Israelites. Aaron met Moses on this mountain before they set out for Egypt.

GOD tells Moses to remind the Israelites how HE delivered them from the Egyptians. Then GOD uses a beautiful example of HIS love, care and purpose. GOD says, “I carried you on the eagles’ wings and brought you to ME.” The mother eagle places the eaglet on her back and then soars with the eaglet upon her back until the eaglet is ready to fly. I think this is so neat.

GOD carried the Israelites and HE carries us as HE builds a personal relationship with each of us as HE reveals Himself as we journey through life with HIM. Then there will be a time when HE will give us the freedom to soar along with HIM. GOD teaches us to follow HIM and to be obedient to all HE teaches us. HE wants us to always look to HIM moment by moment, just as JESUS did while HE dwelt upon earth as a human yet divine. We must keep in our minds that GOD never overrides our right to choose. We are not robots. GOD wants us to be free from the bondage of sin and death and to be free to enjoy our lives fellowshipping with HIM, serving HIM and being obedient to HIM out of our love for HIM while we are here upon earth. This does not mean life will be easy. Life is difficult and GOD knows that. Our choice is do we want to travel the road of life on our own or with our LORD? With freedom comes responsibility.

GOD challenges the Israelites to listen to HIM and obey HIM with the promise that they will be HIS possession, HIS chosen people, a Kingdom of Priests and a Holy nation.

Again let’s look at this graphic illustration in verses 5 and 6 and compare it to our life in CHRIST.

When we ask CHRIST into our lives, we are born into GOD’S family. CHRIST’S sinless life, HIS death and HIS resurrection prepared the human body for all believers to receive the HOLY SPIRIT. When we ask CHRIST into our lives, the HOLY SPIRIT comes into our lives to dwell in us. As a Christian, we have direct access to GOD, our FATHER. We no longer have to go through an earthly priest. We are a priest. A priest represents GOD to the people and a priest represents the people to GOD. JESUS said we are the salt of the earth. Our lives should be so lived that others would see JESUS in us and want what we have.

As Christians we are priests. Paul calls us Ambassadors.

2 Corinthians 5:16-21:
The Ministry of Reconciliation
16 From now on, then, we do not know[6] Or regard anyone in a purely human way.[7] Lit anyone according to the flesh Even if we have known[8] Or have regarded Christ in a purely human way,[9] Lit Christ according to the flesh yet now we no longer know[10] Or regard Him like that. 17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things[11] Other mss read look, all new things have come. 18 Now everything is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that is, in Christ, God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed the message of reconciliation to us. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ; certain that God is appealing through us, we plead on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God.” 21 He made the One who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

1 Peter 2:9:1-5:

1 So rid yourselves of[1] Eph 4:22; Jms 1:21 all wickedness, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, desire the unadulterated spiritual milk,[2] 1 Co 3:2; Heb 5:12–13 so that you may grow by it in [your]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. salvation,[3] Other mss omit in your salvation [4] Eph 4:15 3 since you have tasted that the Lord is good.[5] Ps 34:8 4 Coming to Him, a living stone—rejected[6] Ps 118:22; Mt 21:42; Ac 4:11; Eph 2:20 by men but chosen and valuable[7] Isaiah 28:16 to God— 5 you yourselves, as living stones, are being built into a spiritual house[8] Eph 2:21–22 for a holy priesthood[9] Ex 19:6; Isaiah 61:6; 1 Pt 2:9; Rv 1:6; 5:10; 20:6 to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God[10] Rm 12:1; Heb 13:15 through Jesus Christ.

Let’s read Exodus 20:1-17:

1 Then God spoke all these words: 2 I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the place of slavery.[1] Dt 5:6–21 3 Do not have other gods besides Me. 4 Do not make an idol for yourself, whether in the shape of anything in the heavens above or on the earth below or in the waters under the earth. 5 You must not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the fathers’ sin, to the third and fourth [generations]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. of those who hate Me, 6 but showing faithful love to a thousand [generations]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. of those who love Me and keep My commands. 7 Do not misuse the name of the Lord your God, because the Lord will punish anyone who misuses His name. 8 Remember to dedicate the Sabbath day:[2] Gn 2:2–3 9 You are to labor six days and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. You must not do any work—you, your son or daughter, your male or female slave, your livestock, or the foreigner who is within your gates. 11 For the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and everything in them in six days; then He rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and declared it holy. 12 Honor your father and your mother so that you may have a long life in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.[3] Mt 15:4; Mk 7:10; Eph 6:2–3 13 Do not murder.[4] Mt 5:21 14 Do not commit adultery.[5] Mt 5:27; Jms 2:11 15 Do not steal. 16 Do not give false testimony against your neighbor.[6] Pr 25:18 17 Do not covet your neighbor’s house. Do not covet your neighbor’s wife, his male or female slave, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.[7] Rm 7:7 [8] Mt 19:18–19; Mk 10:19; Lk 18:20; Rm 13:9

GOD gives HIS expectations to the Israelites in the form of ten (10) commandments. The first four (4) commandments deal with our relationship with GOD. The next six (6) deal with our relationship with our fellow human being. Number ten (10) highlights our thought life, which is the battle ground for making right choices.

So why the ten (10) commandments?

v GOD with us – GOD is HOLY and when people approach GOD they need not to have unconfessed sin. The ten (10) commandments give GOD’S expectations for human conduct for us to relate to GOD when HE is with us. The commandments are performance based and designed to change our heart, character, nature and attitude toward GOD and our fellow human beings through human effort.
v Obeying the ten (10) commandments help build our relationship with both GOD and mankind externally which in turn helps to form our character and nature internally.
v GOD in us – GOD could not dwell within each believer until CHRIST paid the price for the sin of mankind. Since CHRIST has paid the price for sin, the human body has been prepared to receive the HOLY SPIRIT WHO dwells within each believer. CHRIST gives us a new heart and a new mind. HE shapes and forms our character, nature and attitude from within. This does not mean the ten (10) commandments are no longer relevant. They are still in place to highlight areas in our life that need to be brought under the control of CHRIST. The HOLY SPIRIT brings to our mind the spirit of the ten (10) commandments and reveals areas not under the control of CHRIST.

Even though we are under grace through our relationship with CHRIST and HE fulfilled the law, we are not exempt from the ten (10) commandments.

As mentioned above, there are the ten (10) commandments and then there is the spirit of the ten (10) commandments. CHRIST referred to the spirit of the ten (10) commandments when HE spoke about the need for us to examine our hearts and thought life.

Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28:

21 “You have heard that it was said to our ancestors,[5] Lit to the ancients Do not murder,[6] Ex 20:13; Dt 5:17 and whoever murders will be subject to judgment. 22 But I tell you, everyone who is angry with his brother[7] Other mss add without a cause will be subject to judgment.

27 “You have heard that it was said, Do not commit adultery.[12] Ex 20:14; Dt 5:18 28 But I tell you, everyone who looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

The ten (10) commandments are not ten (10) suggestions but commandments. They are guidelines or limits of conduct. They represent the standards of conduct that GOD expects for worshiping HIM and for living with fellow humans. They are place holders until GOD sends HIS SON to fully redeem mankind from sin and death.

Those worshiping GOD in the Old Testament were looking forward to their day of redemption through the coming of the Messiah. We are looking back to our day of redemption when CHRIST was crucified, raised from the dead and resurrected.

CHRIST’S gift to every believer is eternal life. HE took the sin of the world upon Himself and in turn HE made us righteous when we accept HIM as our SAVIOR. The ten (10) commandments and law are powerless to give eternal life.

Galatians 3:19-26:
The Purpose of the Law
19 Why the law then? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed (JESUS) to whom the promise was made would come. [The law]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. was ordered through angels by means of a mediator. 20 Now a mediator is not for just one person, but God is one. 21 Is the law therefore contrary to God’s promises? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that was able to give life, then righteousness would certainly be by the law. 22 But the Scripture has imprisoned everything under sin’s power,[17] Lit under sin so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. 23 Before this faith came, we were confined under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith was revealed. 24 The law, then, was our guardian[18] The word translated guardian in vv. 24–25 is different from the word in Gl 4:2. In our culture, we do not have a slave who takes a child to and from school, protecting the child from harm or corruption. In Gk the word paidogogos described such a slave. This slave was not a teacher. until Christ, so that we could be justified by faith. 25 But since that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian,[19] The word translated guardian in vv. 24–25 is different from the word in Gl 4:2. In our culture, we do not have a slave who takes a child to and from school, protecting the child from harm or corruption. In Gk the word paidogogos described such a slave. This slave was not a teacher. 26 for you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

Hebrews 8:6-12:

6 But Jesus[3] Lit He has now obtained a superior ministry, and to that degree He is the mediator of a better covenant, which has been legally enacted on better promises.
A Superior Covenant
7 For if that first [covenant]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. had been faultless, no opportunity would have been sought for a second one. 8 But finding fault with His people,[4] Lit with them He says:[5] Other mss read finding fault, He says to them “Look, the days are coming,” says the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah— 9 not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day I took them by their hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt. Because they did not continue in My covenant, I disregarded them,” says the Lord. 10 “But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days,” says the Lord: “I will put My laws into their minds, and I will write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they will be My people. 11 And each person will not teach his fellow citizen,[6] Other mss read neighbor and each his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know Me, from the least to the greatest of them. 12 For I will be merciful to their wrongdoing, and I will never again remember their sins.”[7] Other mss add and their lawless deeds [8] Jr 31:31–34 13 By saying, a new [covenant]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , He has declared that the first is old. And what is old and aging is about to disappear.

Luke 22:19-20:

19 And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, “This is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.” 20 In the same way He also took the cup after supper and said, “This cup is the new covenant [established by]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. My blood; it is shed for you.[3] Other mss omit which is given for you (v. 19) through the end of v. 20

What a joy it is to be under the new covenant. CHRIST in us! Are you a child of GOD through JESUS? If not ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and ask JESUS to come into your heart at this moment and begin your journey with HIM to the Promised Land. It will not be easy but GOD will be your guide and sustainer until we meet HIM face to face in Heaven. And you will meet HIM one day!

I Will Remain Loyal To GOD - Exodus 13-16 - July 23, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – I Will Remain Loyal To GOD – July 23, 2006

This is lesson four (4) in our bible study series, “My Declaration of Dependence.”

In last week’s lesson the Israelites saw the mighty power of GOD at work delivering them from the hands of the mighty Egyptian Army and the Red Sea. When the Israelites saw the mighty power of GOD at work their faith was increased and they rejoiced in song and praise.

I remember in the early days of my growth with the LORD when our family would attend Christian conferences. It would be a mountain top experience. But when we returned home and got back into the routine of daily living, the mountain top quickly became a valley. In fact, I got to the point that I dreaded a so called “mountain top experience” with the LORD because I knew a valley was coming.

I have to confess this is very sad. Rather than applying what I learned on the mountain top to my every day life when the valley came, I expected to be on a continuous mountain top. After all I was GOD’S child. I expected everything to go without a blip. I had a very immature concept of GOD. You have heard me say that our concept or notions we have about GOD shapes how we react when we encounter circumstances in our lives. I am still getting to know HIM and old concepts have to be dealt with as we continue to build our relationship.

Our Background scripture is Exodus 13:17-16:36.

Our focus scripture is Exodus 15:22-26; 16:1-4, 31-35.

Let’s read Exodus 15:22-26:

22 Then Moses led Israel on from the Red Sea, and they went out to the Wilderness of Shur. They journeyed for three days in the wilderness without finding water. 23 They came to Marah, but they could not drink the water at Marah because it was bitter—that is why it was named Marah.[6] = bitter, or bitterness 24 The people grumbled to Moses, “What are we going to drink?” 25 So he cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a tree. When he threw it into the water, the water became drinkable. He made a statute and ordinance for them at Marah and He tested them there. 26 He said, “If you will carefully obey the Lord your God, do what is right in His eyes, pay attention to His commands, and keep all His statutes, I will not inflict any illness on you I inflicted on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you.”

The Israelites have just encountered GOD in a real and wonderful way. They were on the mountain top of experiencing GOD and HIS mighty power.

We as humans begin to think that if GOD is that loving and powerful and we are HIS chosen then we have it made.

The Israelites are in the Wilderness of Shur. They have been without water for three (3) days. The situation is getting critical. As humans we can go longer without food than we can without water.

They find water but the water is bitter and they cannot drink it. So they complain to Moses, “What are we going to drink?”

Moses goes directly to the LORD, as he should. The LORD shows him a tree. The word “Show” means to “teach” or “instruct”. GOD was going to reveal something to Moses about Himself. GOD had just parted the Red Sea but now GOD was going to use something already in existence, a tree. Moses has to decide if he will obey GOD, after all this is a tree and GOD wants me to throw it into the water. That is strange. Moses is obedient and throws the tree into the water. The water becomes drinkable.

GOD was teaching Moses and the Israelites obedience. Moses had to learn that GOD does not always work in the same way. GOD does not always do the spectacular but HE can take the ordinary and accomplish the extra-ordinary.

The LORD is testing the Israelites. HE had just delivered them from the Red Sea and now they were thirsty. Then they were disappointed when the water was bitter.

Testing builds faith and trust. GOD had not given them the ten (10) commandments but HE is giving the Israelites statutes and ordinances to test them. HE says if they keep HIS statutes and ordinances then none of the illnesses that HE brought upon the Egyptians will fall upon them. GOD tells them that HE is a GOD WHO heals.

GOD is establishing guidelines for their relationship.

Why does GOD test us? After all, HE already knows how we will respond to the test. A test is for us. We get to see our response to the faith, trust and confidence we have in our LORD. Often it is not very pretty. But GOD understands it is a building process.

We must not confuse testing with chastising. Chastising is the result of a need to be corrected. We are heading in the wrong direction and GOD needs to change our direction before we really get into trouble. If we ignore the correction then we suffer the consequences.

GOD’S tests are designed for the good of those being tested:
- to evaluate
- to educate
- to discipline
- to purify
- to strengthen
- to reveal
- to enlighten
- to lead to an encounter
- to build a relationship

These are just a few reasons. GOD’S intent is always for our good.

James 1:2-4 tells us: (Consider trials or tests a great joy because trials are designed to make us to be mature and complete, lacking nothing.)

2 Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.

James 1:12: (When we endue trials/tests we will receive the crown of life.)

12 Blessed is a man who endures trials,[1] Lit trial, used as a collective because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that He[2] Other mss read that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

James 1:13-15: (A trial/test is not a temptation.)

13 No one undergoing a trial should say, “I am being tempted by God.” For God is not tempted by evil,[3] Or evil persons, or evil things and He Himself doesn’t tempt anyone. 14 But each person is tempted when he is drawn away and enticed by his own evil desires. 15 Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and when sin is fully grown, it gives birth to death.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4: (GOD allows trials/tests so we can comfort others as GOD has comforted us.)

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our affliction,[2] Or trouble, or tribulation, or trials, or oppression; the Gk word has a lit meaning of being under pressure. so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

GOD always has a plan and a purpose for us and it is always for our good.

Let’s read Exodus 16:1-5:

1 The entire Israelite community departed from Elim and came to the Wilderness of Sin,[1] Ex 17:1; Nm 33:11–12 which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after they had left the land of Egypt. 2 The entire Israelite community grumbled against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness. 3 The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in the land of Egypt, when we sat by pots of meat and ate all the bread we wanted. Instead, you brought us into this wilderness to make this whole assembly die of hunger!” 4 Then the Lord said to Moses, “I am going to rain bread from heaven[2] Ps 78:24–25; Jn 6:31 for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day. This way I will test them to see whether or not they will follow My instructions. 5 On the sixth day, when they prepare what they bring in, it will be twice as much as they gather on other days.”[3] Lit as gathering day to day

The Israelites leave an oasis called Elim. Elim has multiple streams and date palm trees. They travel to the Wilderness of Sin. In the Wilderness, the Israelites will face a new challenge. They have faced thirst and now they will face hunger.


We know based upon verse 1 and information in Exodus 12:1-6 the Israelites left Egypt one (1) month ago. During this month GOD has delivered them from slavery, guided them with a cloud by day and a pillow of fire by night, delivered them from the Egyptian army through HIS power by parting the Red Sea and provided them water. Through all of these events GOD has revealed Himself, HIS power, presence and care.

Now the Israelites are facing hunger. Notice the entire community grumbles. Spiritual conditions are contagious. People around us can challenge us to a closer walk with our LORD or lead us to question HIM.

The Israelites accuse GOD of bringing them to the wilderness to die. They reminisce about the good old days of slavery when they had meat and bread.

When they left Egypt they had live stock and provisions. They were self-sufficient. Now their provisions are gone, fear takes over and their faith has been compromised.

GOD will test them again to determine if they can follow HIS instructions. GOD is sufficient but HE requires obedience. GOD is giving them an assignment of obedience to build confidence in HIM.

Verse 4 to me is an example of GOD’S grace. The Israelites are grumbling and wishing they were back in slavery. GOD does not get angry with them but HE ministers to them by raining down bread from heaven. The Israelites did not know what to call it, so they called it “what is it” or “manna.” GOD wanted them to know that HE alone provided for them the bread from heaven which sustained them physically.

Are you beginning to get the picture? You are correct. JESUS is called the bread of life. CHRIST sustains us eternally and is the bread from heaven.
GOD provided HIS ONLY SON, WHO willingly came from heaven to live as a human, was tempted in all ways as we are, yet HE remained, by choice, sinless, gave HIS life for us upon the cross and was resurrected from death. HIS resurrection is proof that HE conquered sin and death for us, so we may have eternal live.

The Israelites had to eat the bread from heaven each day to be sustained. CHRIST died once for all. Once we have asked CHRIST into our lives, we are GOD’S child and sustained forever.

HE gives us the HOLY SPIRIT as a security deposit to confirm that our faith in HIM is a fact. The HOLY SPIRIT indwells each Christian, reveals GOD to us, enlightens the eyes of our heart for us to know GOD and build a relationship with GOD.

When we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR, our sins are forgiven, we are born into the family of GOD, we become a child of GOD, we have eternal life, we have passed from spiritual death to spiritual life, we are made righteous and GOD gives us the gift of Grace.

GOD is more interested in our spiritual growth than in punishing us when we cannot seem to get it right. HE wants us to know HIM, to truly know HIM. To truly know someone you have to live with them 24/7.

GOD will use the bread from heaven to test the Israelites obedience.

Let’s read Exodus 16:11-35, focus scripture 31-35:

11 The Lord spoke to Moses, 12 “I have heard the complaints of the Israelites. Tell them: At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will eat bread until you are full. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.” 13 So at evening quail came and covered the camp. In the morning there was a layer of dew all around the camp. 14 When the layer of dew evaporated, there on the desert surface were fine flakes, as fine as frost on the ground. 15 When the Israelites saw it, they asked one another, “What is it?” because they didn’t know what it was. Moses told them, “It is the bread the Lord has given you to eat. 16 This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Gather as much of it as each person needs to eat. You may take two quarts[5] Lit an omer per individual, according to the number of people each of you has in his tent.’ ” 17 So the Israelites did this. Some gathered a lot, some a little. 18 When they measured it by quarts,[6] Lit by an omer the person who gathered a lot had no surplus, and the person who gathered a little had no shortage. Each gathered as much as he needed to eat. 19 Moses said to them, “No one is to let any of it remain until morning.” 20 But they didn’t listen to Moses; some people left part of it until morning, and it bred worms and smelled. Therefore Moses was angry with them. 21 They gathered it every morning. Each gathered as much as he needed to eat, but when the sun grew hot, it melted. 22 On the sixth day they gathered twice as much food, four quarts[7] Lit two omers apiece, and all the leaders of the community came and reported [this]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to Moses. 23 He told them, “This is what the Lord has said: ‘Tomorrow is a day of complete rest, a holy Sabbath to the Lord. Bake what you want to bake, and boil what you want to boil, and everything left over set aside to be kept until morning.’ ” 24 So they set it aside until morning as Moses commanded, and it didn’t smell or have any maggots in it. 25 “Eat it today,” Moses said, “because today is a Sabbath to the Lord. Today you won’t find any in the field. 26 For six days you may gather it, but on the seventh day, the Sabbath, there will be none.” 27 Yet on the seventh day some of the people went out to gather, but they did not find any. 28 Then the Lord said to Moses, “How long will you[8] In Hb you is pl, referring to the whole nation. refuse to keep My commands and instructions? 29 Understand that the Lord has given you the Sabbath; therefore on the sixth day He will give you two days’ worth of bread. Each of you stay where you are; no one is to leave his place on the seventh day.” 30 So the people rested on the seventh day. 31 The house of Israel named the substance manna.[9] = What?; Ex 16:15 It resembled coriander seed, was white, and tasted like wafers [made]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. with honey. 32 Moses said, “This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Two quarts[10] Lit A full omer of it are to be preserved throughout your generations, so that they may see the bread I fed you in the wilderness when I brought you out of the land of Egypt.’ ” 33 Moses told Aaron, “Take a container and put two quarts[11] Lit a full omer of manna in it. Then place it before the Lord to be preserved throughout your generations.” 34 As the Lord commanded Moses, Aaron placed it before the • testimony to be preserved. 35 The Israelites ate manna for 40 years, until they came to an inhabited land. They ate manna until they reached the border of the land of Canaan.[12] Jos 5:12

Let’s compare Exodus 16:3-4 with Exodus 16:11-12:

Exodus 16:3-4:

3 The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in the land of Egypt, when we sat by pots of meat and ate all the bread we wanted. Instead, you brought us into this wilderness to make this whole assembly die of hunger!” 4 Then the Lord said to Moses, “I am going to rain bread from heaven[2] Ps 78:24–25; Jn 6:31 for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day. This way I will test them to see whether or not they will follow My instructions.

Exodus 16:11-12:

11 The Lord spoke to Moses, 12 “I have heard the complaints of the Israelites. Tell them: At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will eat bread until you are full. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.”

GOD is telling the Israelites, you long to go back to Egypt because of the meat in the pot and bread? You don’t think I can take care of you? Well I will show you! But there will be guidelines and your obedience to my instructions will be tested.

Let’s think for a few minutes about the journey of the Israelites being a graphic picture of our journey once we become a Christian.
Along our journey with CHRIST we may think or even be tempted to return to some pleasure(s) of our life before CHRIST.

This is sometimes true of someone who has an addiction. Sometimes we may be having financial trouble and our non-Christians friends are having it easy.

When circumstances in our life are tough, we may think, “Life was better before we became a Christian.” These are times we can confuse being tested with temptation. They may say, “I have to do what I have to do to survive and rely upon my efforts rather than trust in what GOD can do to help me through this situation.”

Relying upon GOD does not necessarily mean sitting, waiting and letting GOD drop it in your lap.

It is like the story of the man during a flood. He prayed that GOD would rescue him. The waters rose and he had to climb to the roof of his house. He continued to pray. A man with a boat came along and asked the man to get into the boat. But the man refused and continued to pray. A rescue helicopter came along and asked the man to get into the helicopter but again the man refused. He continued to pray. The man drowns. When he got to heaven he was angry with GOD and told him how disappointed he was that HE did not rescue him. GOD said but I sent you a boat and a helicopter and you refused both.

Once GOD showed Moses the tree in our today’s scripture, Moses had to take action. GOD did not do it for him.

When the Israelites consider returning to Egypt, GOD says I will show you that I can take better care of you - better than anything your former life had to offer. The same is true in our life. Our life in Christ is beyond anything our former life has to offer.

Through this test GOD continues to reveal Himself to the Israelites and testing their obedience to HIM.

In verses 11 and 12 we see that GOD says you want meat, and then I will give you meat. How about quail! You want bread? I will give you bread that will blow your minds. In fact you will say, “What is it?” You can boil it, bake it, grind it or crush it. Numbers gives us more information about manna.

Numbers 11:8-9:

7 The manna[10] Ex 16:4–35; Dt 8:3,16; Jos 5:12; Neh 9:20; Ps 78:24; Jn 6:48–51; Rv 2:17 resembled coriander seed, and its appearance was like that of bdellium.[11] Probably a gum resin of yellowish, transparent color 8 The people walked around and gathered [it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . They ground [it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. on a pair of grinding stones or crushed [it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. in a mortar, then boiled [it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. in a cooking pot and shaped it into cakes. It tasted like a pastry cooked with the finest oil. 9 When the dew fell on the camp at night, the manna would fall with it.[12] Ex 16:13–14

As mentioned earlier the Israelites called the bread substance “manna”, the English equivalent of “what is it.”

GOD gave them specific instructions about how much to gather per person per day, including the sixth day. On the sixth day, the day before the Sabbath they are to gather double the amount. If they gathered more than they needed, it spoiled, yet, when they gathered double the amount to carry them through the Sabbath it did not spoil. Again GOD is showing the Israelites HE is the ONE WHO is the provider and keeper. HE makes the rules for our own good.

It is like a story I heard about a father telling his son to stop and remain perfectly still as they were walking in the jungle. The son obeyed. The father killed a very poisonous snake that would have meant sure death for his son if it had bitten him. Obedience is for our own benefit.

We see that some were disobedient and the manna spoiled, gave off a foul odor and became worms. They learned that when GOD gives us specific instructions, HE intends for them to be followed precisely. GOD is teaching the Israelites obedience. Through HIS Word, HE is also teaching us to obey HIM exactly as HE instructs as we study HIS WORD.

GOD instructs Moses to gather two (2) quarts to hold as a sample for generations of the Israelites to see that GOD had provided and sustained them for 40 years until they reached the border of the Promised Land.

Again we see the picture of salvation. JESUS gives us life through HIS death. The HOLY SPIRIT indwells us as our assurance that what we believe is true. We can count upon the fact that we are GOD’S child. We have eternal life the moment we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our lives.

The HOLY SPIRIT is with us until we die or until we safely reach our Promised Land, Heaven. Then we are with CHRIST and once we see HIM we will be like HIM.

GOD is building a relationship with the Israelites to prove to them that HE is their sustainer.

This also teaches us about HIM as we read and study these thousands of years later.

I Will Follow GOD'S Leading - Exodus 13 -15 - July 16, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – I Will Follow GOD’S Leading – July 16, 2006

This is lesson three (3) in our series “My Declaration of Dependence.”

In last Sunday’s study, Moses and Aaron have met with the elders of the Israelites and convinced them they are representing GOD. GOD will deliver HIS people from the bondage of slavery.

GOD is building trust and confidence in the Israelites and is drawing the battle line for the Pharaoh # 3/king. The Old Testament depicts GOD as a warrior. The early copiers of the scriptures were hesitant to refer to GOD as a warrior but GOD is fighting for HIS people. This is a battle between the Pharaoh, who was thought to be divine, the gods of the Egyptians and the GOD of the Israelites. The Egyptians needed to know that the GOD of the Israelites is the true GOD. GOD is teaching the Egyptians and the Israelites that HE is sovereign and in control.

GOD has brought ten (10) plagues upon the Egyptians. When GOD delivered the last plague, the death of the firstborn son of the Egyptians, including Pharaoh’s own son, Pharaoh finally let the Israelites go.

The blood of the lamb saved the firstborn son of the Israelites. The blood of GOD’S only son JESUS saves us and delivers us from sin and death. The Israelites began their journey to know GOD after they were freed from the bondage of slavery and Christians being their journey to experience GOD when CHRIST has set them free from sin and death.

Our background scripture is Exodus 13:17-15:21.

Our focus scripture is Exodus 13:17-18, 20-22; 14:5-6, 10, 13-14, (15-31 as background), 14:31; 15:1-3, 11-13.

Let’s read Exodus 1317-18:

17 When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them along the road to the land of the Philistines, even though it was nearby; for God said, “The people will change their minds and return to Egypt if they face war.” 18 So He led the people around toward the • Red Sea along the road of the wilderness. And the Israelites left the land of Egypt in battle formation.

When Pharaoh let the Israelites go, GOD did not lead them along a well traveled trade route called the Via Maris or “the way to the sea.” It would have been the shortest route to the Promised Land. But it was a trade route along which the Egyptians had established outposts.

Each outpost had armed military garrisons guarding them and to enforce trade tolls. If the Israelites happened to get past these outposts, they would have encountered the Philistines, which would have meant fighting.

GOD knew that the Israelites were not ready or trained to fight. GOD wanted to show them that HE could take care of them. HE would fight their battle and at the same time build confidence in HIS people.

GOD is leading them on a route that leads them toward the Red Sea. Remember GOD is building confidence in the Israelites and wants the Egyptians to know that the GOD of the Israelites is defeating them and their gods. GOD wants the Israelites to know that HE is their deliverer. It is likely that the fact they are going toward the Red Sea is one of the reasons Pharaoh decided to go after the Israelites. Because he thought he would have them trapped between his mighty army and the Red Sea, an easy victory.

Even though the Israelites are not trained in warfare they leave Egypt in battle formation. Bible scholars believe this is to show organization and to move up to 2 million people in an orderly fashion.

Let’s read Exodus 13:20-22:

20 They set out from Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the wilderness. 21 The Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to lead them on their way during the day and in a pillar of fire to give them light at night, so that they could travel day or night. 22 The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night never left its place in front of the people.

The Israelites are camped on the edge of the wilderness. They left Succoth and camped at Etham. These are likely two (2) oases. The LORD is visibly with them day and night, watching over them and protecting them.

This is to comfort HIS people and is a message to us today.

GOD wants us to know that HE is never off duty. HE is 24/7. Often when we are going through dark times in our lives we think GOD is no where around. We shout out “GOD where are YOU when we need YOU?” Remember the cloud. GOD never forsakes us or leaves us. We may have to ask our LORD to show us the cloud to comfort us during the dark times. It is the pillar of fire that shows us the way during the dark times in our lives.

Let’s read Exodus 14:5-6, 10, 13-14:

5 When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds about the people and said: “What have we done? We have released Israel from serving us.” 6 So he got his chariot ready and took his troops[1] Lit people with him; 7 he took 600 of the best chariots and all the rest of the chariots of Egypt, with officers in each one. 8 The Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he pursued the Israelites, who were going out triumphantly.[2] Lit with a raised hand 9 The Egyptians—all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots, his horsemen,[3] Or chariot drivers and his army—chased after them and caught up with them as they camped by the sea beside Pi-hahiroth, in front of Baal-zephon. 10 As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up and saw the Egyptians coming after them. Then the Israelites were terrified and cried out to the Lord for help. 11 They said to Moses: “Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you took us to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Isn’t this what we told you in Egypt: Leave us alone so that we may serve the Egyptians? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.” 13 But Moses said to the people, “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and see the Lord’s salvation He will provide for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. 14 The Lord will fight for you; you must be quiet.”

The Egyptians were grieving for the lost of their first born sons. When the grieving ended, they realized that they had let their slave labor go. They changed their minds and the Pharaoh assembled his best warriors to go after and bring the Israelites back to Egypt.

Normally a chariot had a driver and an archer. This time the chariot had a driver, archer and an officer.

Verse 8 makes it clear that GOD wanted them to know who was in control. This is a final battle between Pharaoh, Pharaoh’s best fighters, the gods of Egypt and the GOD of the Israelites. GOD is demonstrating HIS power to both the Egyptians and the Israelites.

Pharaoh learns that the Israelites are in Baal-zephon. Remember GOD is leading the Israelites and they have backtracked. This gives Pharaoh the impression that they were lost and possibly confused. GOD was baiting the trap.

The mighty Egyptian army is racing toward the Israelites. The Israelites have their backs to the Red Sea. Not a good situation for the Israelites to be facing.

GOD allows us to face some tough situations to reveal to us any number of truths. The Israelites are terrified and cried out to the LORD for help. They accuse Moses of leading them into the wilderness to die. The Israelites are ready to give up and return to Egypt. Slavery is better than dieing in the wilderness.

GOD has built confidence in Moses and he has overcome his fear. Moses has taken the leadership position that GOD knew he had and the reason HE chose him in the first place. Moses reveals the confidence he has in GOD to the Israelites. Moses tells the Israelites “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and see the Lord’s salvation He will provide for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. 14 The Lord will fight for you; you must be quiet.”

Moses is confident of victory. GOD does not want the Israelites to lift a finger because HE wants them to know it is HE WHO fights their battles. GOD is the mighty warrior.

As Christians we each face battles every day. Sometimes we encounter situations around us through others. Just know this. We are in a spiritual battle each moment of our lives after we become a Christian. Ephesians 6:12 reveals to us who we are fighting. This is why CHRIST sent us the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell each Christian.

Ephesians 6:12

12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.[11] Eph 1:3,20; 2:6; 3:10 13 This is why you must take up the full armor[12] 1 Th 5:8 of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.

GOD fights our battles. GOD has equipped us with the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. 1 John 4:4 tells us - 4 You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

CHRIST has already defeated the enemy.

Keep in mind that this is a situation where the Israelites have been obedient to GOD. There are situations we get into because of being disobedient. I think this is where Romans 8:28 comes into effect.

28 We know that all things work together[16] Other mss read that God works together in all things for the good[17] The ultimate good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.

Verse 28, I think means, GOD is the ONE working in all things to bring about the best that can come of a situation. Things are not the driver but GOD is. I think this means the things we have brought upon ourselves through bad decisions, circumstances and sin. When we confess our sin, GOD forgives but we may have to suffer the consequences of our sin.

Verses 13 and 14 are awesome. See the LORD’S Salvation.
The word “salvation” means deliverance. The Israelites were terrified and were delivered from the Egyptians. They were in a helpless situation. They were in a situation in which they could do nothing for themselves. They had the Red Sea on one side and the Egyptian army on the other side bearing down on them fast. They saw no way out. Notice how calm Moses is with the situation. Moses is showing complete confidence in GOD’S ability and power to fight this well trained army.

This is a situation of physical deliverance from a physical foe. This gives us a beautiful picture of GOD’S deliverance for each of us from the bondage of sin and death through HIS ONLY SON JESUS.

All of mankind faces the foe of sin and death. Mankind has no way to escape sin and death on its own. There is nothing mankind can do to save itself. Mankind is in a desperate situation to escape from the enemy of sin and death. But GOD through HIS grace and mercy sent HIS SON JESUS to die for us. JESUS took upon HIM our sin and conquered death for us and set us free to become children of GOD and experience the miracle of rebirth. We have been saved from sure destruction by the power of GOD to live eternally with HIM as HIS children.

Let’s read Exodus 14:15-31: This is background scripture and includes verse 31, which we will discuss in the next set of scripture. As this is read, think about this being an example of our deliverance from sin and death.

Escape through the Red Sea
15 The Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to Me? Tell the Israelites to break camp. 16 As for you, lift up your staff, stretch out your hand over the sea, and divide it so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground. 17 I am going to harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them, and I will receive glory by means of Pharaoh, all his army, and his chariots and horsemen. 18 The Egyptians will know that I am the Lord when I receive glory through Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen.” 19 Then the Angel of God, who was going in front of the Israelite forces, moved and went behind them. The pillar of cloud moved from in front of them and stood behind them. 20 It came between the Egyptian and Israelite forces. The cloud was there [in]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the darkness, yet it lit up the night.[4] Perhaps the cloud brought darkness to the Egyptians but light to the Israelites; Ex 10:22–23; Ps 105:39 So neither group came near the other all night long. 21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea. The Lord drove the sea [back]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. with a powerful east wind all that night and turned the sea into dry land. So the waters were divided, 22 and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground,[5] Jos 3:17; 4:18,22 with the waters [like]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a wall to them on their right and their left. 23 The Egyptians set out in pursuit—all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen—and went into the sea after them. 24 Then during the morning watch, the Lord looked down on the Egyptian forces from the pillar of fire and cloud, and threw them into confusion. 25 He caused their chariot wheels to swerve[6] Sam, LXX, Syr read He bound their chariot wheels [7] Or fall off and made them drive[8] Or and they drove them with difficulty. “Let’s get away from Israel,” the Egyptians said, “because the Lord is fighting for them against Egypt!” 26 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may come back on the Egyptians, on their chariots and horsemen.” 27 So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and at daybreak the sea returned to its normal depth. While the Egyptians were trying to escape from it, the Lord overthrew them in the sea. 28 The waters came back and covered the chariots and horsemen, the entire army of Pharaoh, that had gone after them into the sea. None of them survived. 29 But the Israelites had walked through the sea on dry ground, with the waters [like]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a wall to them on their right and their left. 30 That day the Lord saved Israel from the power of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore. 31 When Israel saw the great power that the Lord used against the Egyptians, the people • feared the Lord and believed in Him and in His servant Moses.

This was background for our next set of scriptures.

Let’s read Exodus 14:31 and Exodus 15:1-3, 11-13:

31 When Israel saw the great power that the Lord used against the Egyptians, the people • feared the Lord and believed in Him and in His servant Moses.

1 Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the Lord. They said: I will sing to the Lord, for He is highly exalted; He has thrown the horse and its rider into the sea. 2 The Lord is my strength and my song;[1] Or might He has become my salvation. This is my God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God, and I will exalt Him. 3 The Lord is a warrior; • Yahweh is His name.

11 Lord, who is like You among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, revered with praises, performing wonders? 12 You stretched out Your right hand, and the earth swallowed them. 13 You will lead the people You have redeemed with Your faithful love; You will guide [them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to Your holy dwelling with Your strength.

GOD built confidence into the Israelites. They saw that HE had protected them. They saw and were intimate with the mighty miracle GOD performed in their behalf. This resulted in the Israelites having a reverential fear of GOD and had faith in HIM.

The Israelites broke into song to express their gratitude. The LORD is my strength.

When we asked CHRIST into our lives some of us may have experienced the wonderful freedom of being set free from our hopeless situation. Such joy may have swept over us and we too may have broken out in an expression of song or praise.

If you know that you have asked CHRIST into your life and did not have such an experience, do not let that cause you a problem. As each of us is unique, each of us encounters GOD in his own way. For some, it is a moment of joy and outward expression with an inward sense of well being. To others it is like the rising of the sun in the morning. We know the sun rose but we don’t know exactly when we can say it rose. We know we are saved but it is difficult for us to know the exact moment it occurred.

The HOLY SPIRIT confirms in each of our hearts that we are the children of GOD. Romans 8:16-17 - 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] Or provided that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

This song expresses some of the character GOD has built into the hearts of the Israelites based upon the encounter they had experienced. As we study GOD’S word, pray, serve and obey GOD we also encounter GOD and HE reveals Himself to us. In turn, as we encounter GOD, it builds our character, confidence and trust in HIM. This in turn builds the relationship GOD wants us to have to experience HIM and to know HIM.

As we discussed in last week’s lesson, GOD with us results in a different concept of GOD as compared to GOD in us. GOD with us is an essential step that has to be taken before we can comprehend GOD in us.

My prayer is that all of us will experience the wonder of knowing we are children of GOD through JESUS CHRIST our SAVIOR and LORD and experiencing HIS power manifested through us each day. Amen.

I Will Trust In GOD'S Purpose and Power - Exodus 3:1-4:31 - July 9, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – I Will Trust In GOD’S Purpose and Power – July 9, 2006

This is lesson two (2) in our series “My Declaration of Dependence.”

Abraham’s descendents have been in Egypt for 400 years. They have multiplied into a small nation. In last week’s lesson we learned that Pharaoh two (2)/king two (2) becomes concerned with the population growth of the Israelites and imposes burdensome labor upon them. This is the beginning of slave labor. However during these times the Israelites continue to multiply and become an even larger group of people.

For population control the Pharaoh/king orders the mid-wives to kill all male children born to the Israelites. The mid-wives feared GOD more than Pharaoh and did not kill the male children. When Pharaoh questioned them, they told him that the Israelite women birthed their children quicker than the Egyptian women. The Pharaoh then ordered them to throw the male Israelite children into the Nile River. Moses’ parents in essence followed Pharaoh’s orders. They fashioned a basket and placed Moses into the basket and placed him into the Nile River. One of Pharaoh’s daughters found Moses and GOD arranged for his mother to be his wet nurse.

Moses was educated in Pharaoh’s house and when he was about 40 years old killed an Egyptian. Moses escaped to Midian, which is about 200 miles away from Egypt. In Midian, Moses met his wife and became a sheep herder for his father-in-law, who is a priest. Moses tended sheep for 40 years. This makes Moses 80 years old. While Moses is tending his father-in-laws sheep, something strange gets his attention.

Our background scripture is Exodus 3:1-4:31.

Our focus scripture is Exodus 3:1-8, 19-21; 4:10-12, 27-31.

Let’s read Exodus 3:1-8:

1 Meanwhile Moses was shepherding the flock of his father-in-law Jethro,[1] Moses’ father-in-law’s first name was Jethro; Ex 2:18 the priest of Midian. He led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb,[2] = Desolation; another name for Mount Sinai; Dt 4:10,15; 18:16; Mal 4:4. the mountain of God. 2 Then the Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire within a bush. As Moses looked, he saw that the bush was on fire but was not consumed. 3 So Moses thought: I must go over and look at this remarkable sight. Why isn’t the bush burning up? 4 When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called out to him from the bush, “Moses, Moses!” “Here I am,” he answered. 5 “Do not come closer,” He said. “Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.”[3] Jos 5:15; Ac 7:33 6 Then He continued, “I am the God of your father,[4] Sam, some LXX mss read fathers; Ac 7:32 the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Moses hid his face because he was afraid to look at God. 7 Then the Lord said, “I have observed the misery of My people in Egypt, and have heard them crying out because of their oppressors, and I know about their sufferings. 8 I have come down to rescue them from the power of the Egyptians and to bring them from that land to a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the territory of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites.

Moses sees a burning bush. Then he notices that as the bush burns it is not consumed. This gets his attention and he goes over to get a closer look.

Once GOD sees that HE has Moses attention, HE calls Moses by name, Moses, Moses.

This to me is so neat and important for us to know. GOD always takes the initiative to reveal HIMSELF to mankind. We try to figure GOD out or we try to discover GOD on our own but GOD always reveals HIMSELF, HIS nature, HIS power, HIS purpose, HIS plan, etc.

GOD knows our name. HE knew us even before HE created the world. Ephesians 1:4 tells us, “For HE chose us in HIM before the creation of the world to be Holy and blameless in HIS sight.” HE knows us so well, that HE knows the number of hairs we have on our head.

Remember when GOD called Saul (Paul) when he was on the road to Damascus to try to annihilate any follower of JESUS, JESUS called his name twice, Saul, Saul. If you hear GOD call your name twice pay attention because GOD has a special message for you.

As Moses approaches the burning bush, GOD tells him to remove his sandals from his feet because he was standing on HOLY ground. What made the ground HOLY? After all it is just pasture land.

The presence of GOD made the ground HOLY. GOD began to teach Moses that HE is HOLY and the relationship HE would have with Moses and the Israelites would have certain requirements.

Think about this for a few minutes. GOD is revealing HIMSELF to Moses and the Israelites. GOD will be with Moses and the Israelites.

The Bible is the revelation of GOD on an ever ascending scale which peaks with the birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension of JESUS and JESUS sending the HOLY SPIRIT back to earth to indwell all believers. JESUS makes it possible for the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell each believer. Since that time, GOD has been in us. What is the difference between GOD being with us and GOD being in us?

The presence of GOD with us makes the area HOLY whereas GOD in us makes us HOLY. The presence of GOD in us, makes every place we place our feet HOLY ground. We are HOLY because of the presence of GOD.

This is an awesome thought and responsibility as GOD’S representatives. I think it is impossible for us to fulfill this responsibility without having an intimate loving relationship with GOD through CHRIST by being completely obedient to our SAVIOR and LORD.

GOD told Moses that HE is the GOD of his father, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Of course, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob are dead but GOD says I am their GOD. This tells us and Moses even though they are dead they are in the presence of GOD. GOD is also telling Moses that HE is GOD WHO made a covenant with the patriarchs and even though they are dead, GOD honors the covenant HE made with them.

This is the first time GOD reveals HIS name as YHWH to Moses. The vowels were added later to the Hebrew language later to render the spelling of the name of GOD, “YAHWEH”.

In the Hebrew language the word “YAHWEH” means “to be” or “I AM WHO I AM” and refers to the LORD as the eternal, covenant-making GOD, WHO is always present.

It is interesting that the patriarchs – Abraham, Isaac and Jacob – referred to GOD as “GOD Almighty.”

Exodus 6:2-3:
(2) GOD also said to Moses, “I am the LORD.” (3) I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob as GOD Almighty, but by MY name the LORD I did not make Myself known to them.”

It is thought that GOD revealed HIS name so that Moses would not think HE was some new deity but the very same GOD who revealed HIMSELF to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The name YAHWEH reveals that GOD is eternal, personal and powerful creator. Notice that GOD reveals HIS name to Moses. Moses does not discover HIS name.
The early Jews respected the name YAHWEH so much; they would not speak the name YAHWEH. But instead they used the name “Adonai”, a term of respect meaning “LORD”.

Moses responded to GOD with a reverential fear. Moses is not frightened of GOD but is showing respect for GOD.

Then GOD tells Moses that HE has heard the cry of HIS people and has come down.

There are times in our life we may think, “Does GOD even know or care what I am going through?” GOD uses the term “I know about their sufferings” in verse 7. The term “know” means more than head knowledge; it refers to something that has been experienced. It is GOD’S way of saying, “I have been right there with them in all that is happening to MY people and have experienced their suffering along with them.”

I think verse 8 makes it clear that GOD is well aware of all that goes on in our life because HE is intimately involved with us in our life experiences.

As we mentioned in last week’s lesson there are times GOD waits until certain physical circumstances are in place before we can see HIS hand at work in our behalf. We may have to have an attitude adjustment before GOD can work in our life. Nothing in our life ever goes unnoticed by GOD because HE cares for HIS children.

Let’s read Exodus 3:19-21:

19 “However, I know that the king of Egypt will not allow you to go, unless [he is forced]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. by a strong hand. 20 I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My miracles that I will perform in it. After that, he will let you go. 21 And I will give this people such favor in the sight of the Egyptians that when you go, you will not go empty-handed.
GOD knows our opposition. HE knows our enemies or opposition as intimately as HE knows us. HE knows the Pharaoh/king will not allow HIS people leave unless he is forced to do so.

The Pharaoh and his subjects considered him to be divine. This concept establishes a battle between a human, the Pharaoh/king, who thinks he is divine trying to battle the GOD represented by Moses. May the best one win? Guess who wins!

Notice the number of times GOD says what HE will do. No question WHO is in charge.

This battle will give GOD the opportunity to reveal HIMSELF to both the Pharaoh (king), his subjects and to the people of Israel. The king and the king’s subjects have to be brought to the point of realizing they have been defeated by the GOD of the Israelites. They also have to be shown that the gods of the Egyptians are no match to the GOD of the Israelites. GOD wants Pharaoh to be brought to the point of giving the Israelites ample possessions to leave Egypt. Remember Genesis 15:13-14.

Genesis 15:13-14:
13 Then the Lord said to Abram, “Know this for certain: Your offspring will be strangers[7] Ex 22:21; 23:9 in a land that does not belong to them; they will be enslaved and oppressed[8] Lit will serve them and they will oppress them 400 years.[9] Ex 12:40 14 However, I will judge the nation they serve,[10] Ex 6:6; 7:4; 12:12 and afterwards they will go out with many possessions.[11] Ex 3:22

GOD knows the Israelites need to leave with many possessions because HE will send them the long way to the Promised Land.

GOD will reveal HIMSELF through signs, wonders and miracles for all to know that HE is who says HE is and HE can do what HE says HE can do.

Let’s read Exodus 4:10-12:

10 But Moses replied to the Lord, “Please, Lord, I have never been eloquent—either in the past or recently or since You have been speaking to Your servant[3] Moses —because I am slow and hesitant in speech.” 11 The Lord said to him, “Who made the human mouth? Who makes him mute or deaf, seeing or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go! I will help you speak and I will teach you what to say.”

Moses makes many excuses. This is excuse number two (2).
He tells GOD that he is not eloquent. Some think Moses is saying that he has forgotten the Egyptian language. Moses gives five (5) excuses why he cannot do what GOD has asked him to do.

The LORD does not accept his excuses. HE attempts to reveal to Moses that HE is all powerful and HE will help him to speak and teach him what to say.

This is a message to us as well. When GOD calls us, HE already knows us and knows we are the ones to do what HE has asked us to do. HE equips us to do what needs to be done or HE expects us to depend upon HIM to do the impossible for us.

Our short comings never limit GOD, however, our fear and lack of obedience can limit GOD working through us.

When GOD calls us, HE expects us to respond because HE has already chosen us for the assignment. Remember HE knows us, HE knows all about us. HE knows our name and even to the number of hairs we have on our head. HE is our creator and HE planned when, where and to whom we would be born. HE knows the circumstances in our life which will be needed for the assignment HE has for us.

Let’s read Exodus 4:27-31:

27 Now the Lord had said to Aaron, “Go and meet Moses in the wilderness.” So he went and met him at the mountain of God and kissed him. 28 Moses told Aaron everything the Lord had sent him to say, and about all the signs He had commanded him [to do]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . 29 Then Moses and Aaron went and assembled all the elders of the Israelites. 30 Aaron repeated everything the Lord had said to Moses and performed the signs before the people. 31 The people believed, and when they heard that the Lord had paid attention to them and that He had seen their misery, they bowed down and worshiped.

We fast forward and Moses meets his older brother Aaron at the mountain of GOD, Mount Horeb (Sinai). GOD gives in to Moses excuses by allowing Aaron to speak for Moses and even allowing Aaron to perform the signs GOD had shown Moses – Moses staff turning into a serpent, his hand becoming leprous and taking water from the Nile, pouring it onto the dry ground and it turning into blood.

Aaron and Moses met with the elders of the Israelites. Aaron demonstrated the signs GOD revealed to Moses. The elders believed they were GOD’S representatives. This resulted in them worshipping GOD.

Signs, wonders and miracles get our attention and result in our worship of GOD. We have to be careful not to get caught up in the signs, wonders and miracles and fail to build a relationship with GOD. We all love signs, wonders and miracles. They warm our hearts but they can result in us having an external, superficial relationship with GOD. The greatest wonder is CHRIST in us.

GOD has given us signs, wonders and miracles to reveal to us some of the things HE can do. HIS WORD demonstrates to us that GOD can be trusted and HE can do what HE says HE can do.

The type of relationship we have with GOD determines what we do next when GOD asks us to do something for HIM. Do we have the relationship with CHRIST such that we will trust in GOD’S purpose and power for our life?

The Bible tells us what GOD can do, the raising HIS SON JESUS from the dead, forgiveness of sin, giving us eternal life, grace and gifts of the SPIRIT. This same power is in each of us. So why is this power not manifested through us?

I believe it is because we do not have the relationship with GOD such that we really believe GOD can and will do what HE says HE can and will do through us. Power can corrupt us and GOD will never give something to us that will harm us. We must have the relationship with HIM such that when HE manifests HIS power through us that it will not go to our heads. I am convinced, if we are willing and yield our life to HIM, HE will prepare us for a mighty work in our life.

GOD is preparing HIS people to leave a life of bondage and slavery, to travel to a land flowing with milk and honey. At the same time GOD is preparing the Israelites in Egypt, HE is preparing the Promised Land to be a fertile place to live. People are living in the Promised Land shaping it, without their knowledge, into a place for GOD’S people.

GOD is making Himself known to the Israelites and building trust and confidence with them. GOD never overrides our right to choose. We see that in the life of the Israelites. GOD leads them but the final decision is up to them.

GOD leads us but whether or not we continue to trust and follow HIM when things seem impossible will be up to us. The title of our study is “I Will Trust in GOD’S Purpose and Power.” It is easy to utter these words when life is going well but very difficult when our world seems to be crumbling around us.

I am convinced it is only when we have a healthy relationship with our FATHER, through CHRIST, that our hope and confidence can be sustained when dark times come into our life. I am equally convinced that when we experience the power of GOD in our lives, we must have this same relationship to maintain a healthy balance in our lives as obedient Christians.

Our study reveals that GOD chooses to work through humans who are not perfect. Moses had a number of excuses expressing why he was not the one for the job but GOD worked with him and his brother Aaron to accomplish HIS plan and purpose. Aaron began as the spokesperson but once Moses overcame his fear then he assumed the leadership position GOD wanted him to have in the first place. There are times GOD allows others to come along side of us to give us the courage to continue our walk with the LORD.

GOD gives us these encounters in the Bible to reveal HIS nature and character to us today. When GOD calls us, respond, because the journey will be awesome. GOD told Moses HE would help him and would be his teacher. HE did through Aaron.

GOD has given each believer the HOLY SPIRIT to instruct us, enlighten us, to equip us and to manifest HIS power through us. If you are not experiencing the presence of GOD in your life, ask GOD to reveal to you why. Then partner with GOD to build the relationship with HIM that will glorify HIM.