The Book of Exodus tells the dramatic story of God delivering His people from slavery in Egypt. This foundational narrative shapes how we understand salvation throughout all of Scripture.
Israel in Egypt
After Joseph's death, a new Pharaoh arose who enslaved the Israelites. For 400 years, they groaned under bitter bondage. Their cries reached God, who remembered His covenant with Abraham.
The Call of Moses (Exodus 3-4)
At the burning bush, God revealed Himself to Moses:
"I AM THAT I AM" — Exodus 3:14
This divine name reveals God as the self-existent, eternal One who keeps His promises.
The Ten Plagues (Exodus 7-12)
God demonstrated His power over Egypt's gods through ten devastating plagues:
- Water to blood
- Frogs
- Lice
- Flies
- Livestock disease
- Boils
- Hail
- Locusts
- Darkness
- Death of the firstborn
The Passover (Exodus 12)
The final plague required Israel to sacrifice a lamb and apply its blood to their doorposts. When the LORD saw the blood, He passed over that house, sparing the firstborn.
This event foreshadows Christ our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7).
The Red Sea Crossing (Exodus 14)
Trapped between the sea and Pharaoh's army, Israel witnessed God's mighty salvation:
"Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD" — Exodus 14:13
God parted the waters, led Israel through on dry ground, and destroyed the pursuing army.
Mount Sinai (Exodus 19-40)
At Sinai, God established His covenant with Israel:
- The Ten Commandments (20:1-17)
- The civil and ceremonial laws (21-23)
- The Tabernacle instructions (25-31)
- The golden calf incident (32)
- Renewed covenant (33-34)
- Tabernacle construction (35-40)
Themes of Exodus
- Redemption - God delivers His people from bondage
- Covenant - God enters into relationship with His people
- Presence - God dwells among His people
- Holiness - God calls His people to be set apart
"And I will take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God." — Exodus 6:7