As Israel journeys away from Egypt, Pharaoh and his army begin to pursue them. As the people see the approaching army with their backs against the sea, they grow fearful. Instead, they are to “fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD.” The salvation of Israel is completely dependent upon God’s working on their behalf.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
THINKING: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
Note the repetition of the theme of fear and sight in this passage. Summarize what is happening in light of these themes.
Verses 22 and 29 of Exodus 14 are nearly identical to each other, which is a literary device used to focus attention on what comes between them. What do verses 23–28 emphasize? How does this emphasis differ from what we might assume the account of the Red Sea focuses on?
FEELING: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
How do the Passover in Chapter 12 and the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea in Chapter 14 give us a picture of the Gospel? What does this tell us about God’s love for us?
How do you respond to God when you reflect on this amazing grace?
DOING: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
Read verse 14. The people are interpreting their circumstances while failing to recognize God’s sovereignty over them. How can you relate? How does this passage bring correction to you?
God led Israel into a difficult situation in order that he might show his own glory. How does this give us a helpful perspective on the difficulties of our own churches and lives?
