Divine Freedom: God's Plan Through Moses and Water
Summary
### Summary
Today's message focused on the theme of freedom, both in the context of our national celebration and the spiritual freedom found in God's plan throughout history. We explored the life of Moses, emphasizing the recurring motif of water in his story and its significance in the broader narrative of God's interaction with humanity. From the creation story where God controlled the waters, to Noah's flood, and finally to Moses leading the Israelites through the Red Sea, water has been a symbol of God's power and provision.
We delved into the plight of the Israelites, who were in bondage for 450 years, and how God orchestrated their deliverance through Moses. Despite Moses' initial reluctance and feelings of inadequacy, God had a plan for him from the beginning. This plan was not reactive but proactive, demonstrating that God is always in control and has a purpose for each of us.
The plagues in Egypt were not just acts of judgment but also opportunities for Pharaoh to make a choice. Each plague was a demonstration of God's sovereignty over creation and a foreshadowing of Egypt's demise. The final plague, the death of the firstborn, was particularly significant as it mirrored Pharaoh's earlier decree to kill the firstborn of the Israelites. This event led to the institution of the Passover, a pivotal moment that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
We also reflected on how God has always been pursuing humanity with relentless love, even when we stray. His promises are steadfast, and His plans are always for our good, even when we cannot see it in the moment. The story of Moses and the Israelites serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the freedom we have in Him.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Proactive Plan: God is not reacting to the events in our lives; He has a plan that predates our existence. This plan is evident from the creation story to the deliverance of the Israelites. Understanding this can bring comfort and assurance that our lives are part of a divine orchestration. [20:12]
2. Relentless Pursuit: God has been pursuing humanity with relentless love since the beginning of time. Despite our failures and the chaos we create, His love remains unconditional, and He continually seeks to draw us back to Him. [21:15]
3. Significance of Water: Water is a recurring symbol of God's power and provision throughout the Bible. From creation to the Red Sea crossing, water represents both life and judgment, reminding us of God's control over all elements of creation. [18:52]
4. Choice and Consequence: The plagues in Egypt were not just acts of judgment but also opportunities for Pharaoh to make a choice. Similarly, we are constantly faced with choices that reflect our obedience or disobedience to God. Our responses can either align us with His will or lead us away from His blessings. [38:06]
5. Foreshadowing of Christ: The Passover and the sacrificial lamb are direct foreshadowings of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. Just as the Israelites were saved by the blood of the lamb, we are saved by the blood of Christ, establishing a new covenant and offering us eternal life. [47:41]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[16:22] - Introduction to Freedom and Moses
[17:32] - God's Control Over Water
[18:52] - From Creation to De-Creation
[20:12] - God's Proactive Plan
[21:15] - God's Relentless Pursuit
[22:15] - God's Promises and Patience
[23:05] - Moses' Calling and Preparation
[24:03] - Reflection on Personal Journeys
[25:13] - The Story of Moses' Birth
[26:16] - Joseph and the Changing Pharaohs
[27:01] - Oppression and Infanticide
[27:41] - Moses' Rescue and Upbringing
[28:33] - Moses' Life in Midian
[29:34] - Moses' Flight and God's Preparation
[30:14] - Moses at the Well
[31:02] - Moses' New Family
[31:41] - The Burning Bush
[32:13] - Moses' Reluctance and God's Assurance
[33:21] - Moses' Doubts and God's Plan
[34:40] - God's Call to Action
[35:22] - The Plagues Begin
[35:58] - The Significance of the Plagues
[36:59] - Pharaoh's Choices and God's Control
[38:06] - Lessons from the Plagues
[39:14] - Foreshadowing Egypt's Demise
[40:09] - Warnings to the Israelites
[41:44] - The Israelites' Deliverance
[43:28] - Crossing the Red Sea
[44:56] - The Song of Miriam
[46:17] - The Final Plague and Passover
[47:41] - The Foreshadowing of Christ
[49:32] - The New Covenant
[50:12] - Instructions for the Passover
[50:54] - Commitment and Circumcision
[51:46] - Jesus and the New Covenant
[52:29] - Reflection on Modern Disobedience
[53:09] - Communion Preparation
[53:51] - Invitation to Communion
[54:30] - The Meaning of Communion
[55:34] - Prayer for Salvation
[56:39] - Communion Elements
[57:35] - Jesus' Instructions for Communion
[58:16] - Prayer and Bread
[59:08] - Prayer and Cup
[59:51] - Closing Song and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Exodus 14:21-22 (NIV): "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left."
2. Exodus 12:23 (NIV): "When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down."
3. Hebrews 9:15 (NIV): "For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant."
### Observation Questions
1. What did Moses do to part the Red Sea, and what was the result for the Israelites? ([43:28])
2. What specific instructions did God give the Israelites for the Passover to protect their firstborn? ([47:41])
3. How does Hebrews 9:15 describe Jesus' role in the new covenant?
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the parting of the Red Sea demonstrate God's control over creation and His provision for His people? ([43:28])
2. In what ways does the Passover foreshadow the sacrifice of Jesus Christ? ([47:41])
3. What does it mean for Christ to be the mediator of a new covenant, and how does this relate to the promises made in the Old Testament? ([59:51])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God was proactively working in your life. How did this experience shape your faith? ([20:12])
2. How can you recognize and respond to God's relentless pursuit of you, especially during times when you feel distant from Him? ([21:15])
3. Water is a recurring symbol of God's power and provision. How can you see God's provision in your daily life, and how does this impact your trust in Him? ([18:52])
4. Pharaoh was given multiple opportunities to make a choice. What are some choices you face daily that reflect your obedience or disobedience to God? ([38:06])
5. The Passover and the sacrificial lamb are direct foreshadowings of Jesus Christ. How does understanding this connection deepen your appreciation for Jesus' sacrifice? ([47:41])
6. Think about a difficult situation you are currently facing. How can the story of Moses and the Israelites' deliverance encourage you to trust in God's plan and timing? ([23:05])
7. How can you actively participate in God's plan for your life, even when you feel inadequate or reluctant like Moses? ([33:21])
Devotional
Day 1: God's Proactive Plan
God's plan for our lives is not a reaction to our circumstances but a preordained design that predates our existence. This divine orchestration is evident from the creation story to the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. Understanding that God has a proactive plan can bring comfort and assurance, especially when we face uncertainties. Just as God had a plan for Moses, despite his initial reluctance and feelings of inadequacy, He has a purpose for each of us. This plan is not only for our good but also for His glory, demonstrating His sovereignty and control over all aspects of our lives. [20:12]
Isaiah 46:10 (ESV): "Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’"
Reflection: Think about a current challenge you are facing. How does knowing that God has a proactive plan for your life change your perspective on this challenge?
Day 2: Relentless Pursuit
God's love for humanity is relentless and unconditional. From the beginning of time, He has been pursuing us with a love that never fails, even when we stray. Despite our failures and the chaos we create, God's love remains steadfast, and He continually seeks to draw us back to Him. This relentless pursuit is a testament to His grace and mercy, reminding us that we are never too far gone for His love to reach us. Understanding this can help us to trust in His promises and to seek Him earnestly, knowing that He is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. [21:15]
Jeremiah 31:3 (ESV): "The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. How did you experience His relentless love drawing you back to Him?
Day 3: Significance of Water
Water is a powerful symbol of God's power and provision throughout the Bible. From the creation story where God controlled the waters, to Noah's flood, and finally to Moses leading the Israelites through the Red Sea, water represents both life and judgment. This recurring motif reminds us of God's control over all elements of creation and His ability to provide for and protect His people. Understanding the significance of water in the biblical narrative can deepen our appreciation for God's sovereignty and His ongoing work in our lives. [18:52]
Isaiah 43:2 (ESV): "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you."
Reflection: Consider a situation where you felt overwhelmed. How can the symbolism of water as God's provision and protection encourage you in that situation?
Day 4: Choice and Consequence
The plagues in Egypt were not just acts of judgment but also opportunities for Pharaoh to make a choice. Similarly, we are constantly faced with choices that reflect our obedience or disobedience to God. Our responses can either align us with His will or lead us away from His blessings. Understanding the importance of our choices and their consequences can help us to seek God's guidance and to make decisions that honor Him. This awareness can also remind us of the grace available to us when we repent and turn back to God. [38:06]
Deuteronomy 30:19 (ESV): "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live."
Reflection: Think about a recent decision you made. How did it reflect your obedience or disobedience to God? What can you learn from this experience?
Day 5: Foreshadowing of Christ
The Passover and the sacrificial lamb are direct foreshadowings of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. Just as the Israelites were saved by the blood of the lamb, we are saved by the blood of Christ, establishing a new covenant and offering us eternal life. This foreshadowing highlights the continuity of God's plan for salvation and His ultimate sacrifice for humanity. Reflecting on this can deepen our gratitude for Jesus' sacrifice and inspire us to live in a way that honors His gift of salvation. [47:41]
1 Peter 1:18-19 (ESV): "Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot."
Reflection: How does understanding the foreshadowing of Christ in the Passover story deepen your appreciation for Jesus' sacrifice? How can you live out this appreciation in your daily life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God has always had a plan. I don't know about you, but a lot of times I have a tendency to live my life. Like, okay, this just happened, right? I just went through a loss or I went through a tough experience. We went through a move with through whatever and you kind of think now God's got to react to this. God is not reacting to anything. Anything that's in your life. God has had a plan before you were ever born going back all the way to creation." [20:12] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God has always been pursuing man from the beginning of time. We have a tendency to think that maybe sometimes God got so angry and frustrated and he's angry and frustrated with us now. And he doesn't listen to us anymore and he doesn't care about us. Look at where our world's at. God didn't do that man did that but he has been pursuing us relentlessly from the first day that man was created." [21:15] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God always keeps his promises and we talked about that promise even last week when we talked about knowing the flood and he's never done that again since right? I mean, he's been true to his promise. There's been floods, but he's never destroyed the whole entire Earth and we're going to wonder even in this story today. Why didn't he just wipe out everybody again?" [22:15] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "What is God may be asking you to do? What is God approached you about that maybe in the back of your mind? You're just going to ain't no way God. There is no way that I'm going to ever go do that ministry. There's no way I can ever be on the mission field. There's not any way that I could ever make a decision like Chandler is made to leave a career to be a pastor. There's no way that I could do all of these things." [33:55] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We don't do this to make us Christians. This isn't the reason we do this. In fact, one of the things that we ask is if you haven't made that decision to follow Christ that this is something that you should pause and it's not because it's you're going to drink this or eat this and all the second God's going to strike you down. That's not the way this works. All right, it's so that it has the meaning and the purpose in your life that is supposed to be." [54:30] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Could you imagine if we had to do that? Like every 7 to 10, 10 years that God would just get so frustrated with us that he would just wipe everything out and then we'd start over and then wipe it out again and start over. What about you and I? Oh my gosh, is I even think about me in my life and we have the hindsight of being able to open up God's word and we're going to be in the book of Exodus today." [22:15] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "There are so many things that we can look back and we see how God always had a purpose. He always had a plan. He always was pursuing me. Okay, and most of the tough times I went through was actually after I became a Christian. It wasn't before becoming a Christian at the age of nine. It was after that because I had a whole lot of time after that to be able to do stupid things where God rescued me out of it to go through trials that I didn't expect." [24:03] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God shows several things. I think through this and through the plagues you can see those up on the screen there. First of all, these plagues. Were a call to a choice every time Pharaoh had a choice. He sends a plague and then he says okay now will you let the people go in every time he refuses guys? God's constantly given you and I a choice with everything that comes into our life and I'm not saying he's sending bad things our way. He doesn't he's trying to do nothing but send blessings your way but hard times do come and struggles come." [38:06] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We have all these things that come out of this and then we finally get to the point where we see that we mentioned after the firstborn has died that Pharaoh finally releases the Israelites. Okay, and so they flee and they're going to what we see in Scripture is we read through it that it was actually keeps referring to the Red Sea. That's a little bit of a misnomer because in our in our translations of the the original language there a lot of times it gets converted in in English to the Red Sea. It actually meant the read our EED the read see so I wasn't a misspelling on the screen up there." [43:28] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We don't have Jesus in the picture. And so what is he constantly doing? He's constantly trying to bring things up back in control man screw things up. He's trying to bring it back under control. He's trying to bring his people into a place where they are pursuing that covenant relationship with the same. Love and Pursuit that he has for them. All right, and so we have all these things that come out of this and then we finally get to the point where we see that we mentioned after the firstborn has died that Pharaoh finally releases the Israelites." [41:44] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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