Embracing the New Exodus: A Journey of Transformation
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we explored the profound connection between the ancient narrative of the Exodus and our contemporary spiritual journey. The Exodus story, which details the Israelites' departure from Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land, serves as a powerful metaphor for our own spiritual experiences. This narrative is not just a historical account but a living text that speaks to our current struggles, temptations, and joys. It reveals God's character as a healer, deliverer, and loving Father who desires our wholeness.
We discussed the importance of abiding in God's Word and listening to the Holy Spirit for guidance. This process requires time and patience, much like savoring a slow meal. By taking our time to delve deeply into Scripture, we allow the Spirit to reveal the prophetic word within the text, which can then be enriched by consulting commentaries, church fathers, and poets.
The sermon also highlighted the concept of covetousness as idolatry, as mentioned by Paul in Colossians 3. Our constant desire for more—whether it be material possessions, status, or control—distracts us from our true identity in Christ. We are called to put away these old desires and embrace the new life that Jesus offers.
N.T. Wright's teachings were referenced to emphasize the New Testament as a new Exodus, delivering us from the bondage of sin into the promises of God. Jesus is our new champion who leads us through life's challenges and into a new creation. This new life in Christ allows us to live in peace, free from the demands of the flesh and the world.
Finally, we were encouraged to imagine the transformative power of living in close relationship with God and each other. This relationship is not just for the present but also holds a future promise of resurrection and a renewed earth. Knowing this, we can endure present sufferings and sacrifices, confident that God's ultimate plan will be fulfilled.
### Key Takeaways
1. Abiding in God's Word: Taking time to deeply engage with Scripture allows the Holy Spirit to reveal its prophetic message. This process is akin to savoring a slow meal, where each moment of reflection brings new insights and understanding. By listening to the Spirit, we can discern God's living word for our lives today. [08:20]
2. The Exodus as a Metaphor: The story of the Exodus mirrors our own spiritual journey, highlighting our struggles, temptations, and joys. It reveals God's character as a healer and deliverer, showing that even His judgments are meant to heal and restore us. This narrative teaches us about God's unwavering love and mercy. [12:43]
3. Covetousness as Idolatry: Paul warns in Colossians 3 that covetousness is a form of idolatry. Our incessant desires for more can distract us from our true identity in Christ. We are called to put away these old desires and embrace the new life that Jesus offers, which is free from the demands of the flesh and the world. [20:48]
4. The New Exodus in Christ: N.T. Wright's teachings emphasize that the New Testament represents a new Exodus, delivering us from the bondage of sin into the promises of God. Jesus is our new champion who leads us through life's challenges and into a new creation. This new life in Christ allows us to live in peace and righteousness. [34:14]
5. Living in Close Relationship with God: We are encouraged to imagine the transformative power of living in close relationship with God and each other. This relationship is not just for the present but also holds a future promise of resurrection and a renewed earth. Knowing this, we can endure present sufferings and sacrifices, confident that God's ultimate plan will be fulfilled. [36:44]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[08:20] - Abiding in God's Word
[09:21] - Listening to the Holy Spirit
[10:06] - The Importance of Series
[11:05] - Using the Map
[11:48] - The Exodus Narrative
[12:43] - Human Experience and God's Character
[13:46] - Therapeutic Judgment
[20:48] - Covetousness as Idolatry
[21:54] - N.T. Wright on Faith
[34:14] - The New Exodus in Christ
[34:43] - Jesus as Our Champion
[35:12] - Living in Peace and Righteousness
[36:13] - Imagining Transformation
[36:44] - Closeness with God
[37:15] - Future Promise of Resurrection
[41:42] - Stripping Away Barriers
[42:11] - Coming Close to Jesus
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Exodus 14:13-14 (NIV): "Moses answered the people, 'Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.'"
2. Colossians 3:5 (NIV): "Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry."
3. Romans 8:18 (NIV): "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Moses tell the Israelites to do in Exodus 14:13-14, and what promise does he give them about God's deliverance?
2. According to Colossians 3:5, what are believers instructed to put to death, and how is covetousness described?
3. In Romans 8:18, how does Paul compare present sufferings to future glory?
4. How does the sermon describe the process of abiding in God's Word and listening to the Holy Spirit? [08:20]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the story of the Exodus serve as a metaphor for our spiritual journey today? What parallels can you draw between the Israelites' journey and your own spiritual experiences? [12:43]
2. Why does Paul equate covetousness with idolatry in Colossians 3:5? How can our desires for more distract us from our true identity in Christ? [20:48]
3. What does N.T. Wright mean by describing the New Testament as a "new Exodus"? How does this concept of deliverance apply to our lives in Christ? [34:14]
4. How does the promise of future resurrection and a renewed earth help us endure present sufferings and sacrifices? [37:15]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current practice of engaging with Scripture. How can you take more time to deeply abide in God's Word and listen to the Holy Spirit? What steps can you take this week to make this a priority? [08:20]
2. Identify areas in your life where you may be coveting material possessions, status, or control. How can you begin to put away these old desires and embrace the new life that Jesus offers? [20:48]
3. Think about a recent struggle or challenge you faced. How can you see God's character as a healer and deliverer in that situation? How does this perspective change your approach to future challenges? [12:43]
4. Imagine what it would look like to live in close relationship with God and others in your community. What practical steps can you take to foster this closeness and support each other in your spiritual journeys? [36:44]
5. How does the promise of future resurrection and a renewed earth influence your daily life and decisions? What sacrifices or sufferings are you willing to endure, knowing that God's ultimate plan will be fulfilled? [37:15]
6. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. What can you do to draw closer to Him and experience His presence more fully in your life? [36:44]
7. How can you support others in your small group or community who are struggling with covetousness or other distractions from their identity in Christ? What practical actions can you take to help them embrace the new life in Jesus? [20:48]
Devotional
### Day 1: Savoring God's Word
Description:
Engaging deeply with Scripture is a transformative practice that requires time and patience. Much like savoring a slow meal, taking the time to delve into God's Word allows the Holy Spirit to reveal its prophetic message. This process is not about rushing through the text but about allowing each moment of reflection to bring new insights and understanding. By listening to the Spirit, we can discern God's living word for our lives today. This practice enriches our spiritual journey and helps us grow closer to God. [08:20]
Bible passage:
"Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts." — Jeremiah 15:16 (ESV)
Reflection:
Think of a specific passage of Scripture that you have read recently. How can you take more time to meditate on it today, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal deeper insights to you?
### Day 2: The Exodus as Our Spiritual Journey
Description:
The story of the Exodus is more than a historical account; it is a powerful metaphor for our own spiritual journey. This narrative mirrors our struggles, temptations, and joys, revealing God's character as a healer and deliverer. Even His judgments are meant to heal and restore us. The Exodus story teaches us about God's unwavering love and mercy, showing that He is always with us, guiding us through our own personal "wilderness" experiences. By understanding this, we can find comfort and strength in knowing that God is actively involved in our lives. [12:43]
Bible passage:
"And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night." — Exodus 13:21 (ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on a recent challenge or struggle in your life. How can you see God's guiding hand in that situation, much like He guided the Israelites through the wilderness?
### Day 3: Covetousness as Idolatry
Description:
Paul warns in Colossians 3 that covetousness is a form of idolatry. Our incessant desires for more—whether it be material possessions, status, or control—can distract us from our true identity in Christ. These desires can become idols that take the place of God in our lives. We are called to put away these old desires and embrace the new life that Jesus offers, which is free from the demands of the flesh and the world. By doing so, we can live in peace and righteousness, fully aligned with God's will for our lives. [20:48]
Bible passage:
"Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry." — Colossians 3:5 (ESV)
Reflection:
Identify one area in your life where you find yourself constantly wanting more. How can you surrender this desire to God and focus on your true identity in Christ today?
### Day 4: The New Exodus in Christ
Description:
N.T. Wright's teachings emphasize that the New Testament represents a new Exodus, delivering us from the bondage of sin into the promises of God. Jesus is our new champion who leads us through life's challenges and into a new creation. This new life in Christ allows us to live in peace and righteousness, free from the demands of the flesh and the world. By understanding Jesus as our leader in this new Exodus, we can navigate our spiritual journey with confidence and hope, knowing that He has already secured our victory. [34:14]
Bible passage:
"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." — Colossians 1:13-14 (ESV)
Reflection:
Think about a specific challenge you are facing right now. How can you rely on Jesus as your champion to lead you through this challenge and into a place of peace and righteousness?
### Day 5: Living in Close Relationship with God
Description:
We are encouraged to imagine the transformative power of living in close relationship with God and each other. This relationship is not just for the present but also holds a future promise of resurrection and a renewed earth. Knowing this, we can endure present sufferings and sacrifices, confident that God's ultimate plan will be fulfilled. By fostering a close relationship with God, we can experience His love and guidance in our daily lives, and look forward to the future hope that He has promised us. [36:44]
Bible passage:
"And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.'" — Revelation 21:3 (ESV)
Reflection:
Consider one way you can deepen your relationship with God today. What specific action can you take to draw closer to Him and experience His transformative power in your life?
Quotes
1. "One of the best, the best pieces of advice I've ever heard having to do with sermon prep is that, and I've heard a lot of really good counsel, one of them is when you come to the text, you pray through that text, and you sit with that text, and you listen, and you listen for the word in that text that the Spirit stirs in you. Now, I don't mean word, like literally just one word, although sometimes that can be, but I mean, when you're preparing for preaching, you're listening, what is it, Holy Spirit, that you're wanting to say through this living text, this living word?" [08:20] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So, my point with all of that is, that only comes with time. It takes time to do that. Now, yeah, I mean, God, I've had it, lightning words in a moment. I've had times where God has given me a sermon, I kid you not, sitting on the front row, ready to preach. He changes it, a sermon I'm not prepared for. That has happened. Rarely, thank you, Lord. But it has happened. But I think the normal way is... Abiding in that word, and listening." [09:21] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "It allows us to journey together. It allows us to take our time, to listen to what the Lord is saying. You know, we're all ready. Our culture is all ready. Let's hit you with one thing, and then hit you with another thing, and then hit you with another thing, and hit you with another thing. And you've forgotten the first thing. Let alone the second through third thing, right? But when we do something like this, we take our time. We take our time. We go through it. It's like a slow meal. You go through it, and you really lean in and listen to what the Lord has to say." [10:06] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I think he was revealing to the people what they deserved. And I think he was deepening Moses' love for the people. But I think that he intended always for them to be healed because he would always come around every single time. And even when some had to die by the way, for the whole, it was to make them the people he wanted to be. And so I just was really struck by how that maps over human experience and human relationship with God and how much it reveals that God is love. And mercy. And what he wants is our wholeness. And he'll do what he needs to do, which is sometimes strong medicine, sometimes it's surgery, but he'll do whatever he needs to do to make us whole." [13:46] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You said something, as you were saying, that I feel like sheds light on something Paul says in Colossians 3, when he lists all these things that we're supposed to put off, sexual immorality, impurity, wrath, all these things put off. And he says covetousness. He lists that also, covetousness, which is idolatry. And so, as you were saying that, I'm thinking about that. You know, I want, I want, I want. I want, I want, I want, I want. I want it to be my way. I want it to be this way. I want, I want, whatever it is. Paul says that is idolatry. That's covetousness, and that is idolatry. And that is not what you've learned in Christ. And that is not the new person in Christ. Put it away. Put it away." [20:48] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "So this deliverance. Out of the bondage of sin. This deliverance. Away from. This present evil age. Into. The promises of God. That have to do with a new life. A new creation. And so Jesus becomes. Our new champion. Who goes through. The challenges. Through the battles. And leads us through the other side. So what does that mean for us? It means two things. For us. One the other later. The later part. The now part. Is that we have this new life. Like we mentioned earlier. We put on this new person. This new life. That's made in Christ. In holiness and righteousness." [35:12] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Just think about again. I always love to use the imagination. Just begin. To imagine. What would happen. As a people. A group of people. Begin to recognize. That they are. In a relationship with God. Who brings them close. Close to him and close to each other. And that God empowers them. Just imagine what can happen in this house. Imagine what can happen. In this community. As we live into that promise." [36:13] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Because Jesus Christ. Is raised from the dead. We will be raised from the dead too. This whole thing. This whole project of God. Will be completed. And this earth will be made new. It will. And nothing will stop that. Nothing will end that. There is not a demon in hell. That can stop that. There is not a political force on earth. That can stop that. There is not a person that can stop that. What God has intended to happen. Will happen. Jesus Christ is raised from the dead. It is a fait accompli. We have hope. That is where we are headed." [37:15] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "And because we know that is the case. Because we know that I will rise from the dead too. I can give up some things now. I can. I can endure some things now. I can suffer some things now. Because God's project will be accomplished. It will be fulfilled. It is a fact. And I rest on that. Yes. Healed bodies. He's all of this stuff. Just like Marty was saying. All of this stuff that he's doing. Is he's stripping the way. The things that get between. You and him. And he ultimately. Is everything we need. And we're made for him. We're made for him." [41:42] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Man. If we could just. Come close to Jesus. And let everything else go. Just come close to Jesus." [42:11] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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