Exodus tells the story of God’s dramatic deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt and His formation of them into a covenant people. Through mighty acts, God reveals His power, faithfulness, and holiness. The book also records the giving of the Law, the instructions for the tabernacle, and God’s desire to dwell among His people. Exodus is foundational for understanding redemption, worship, and God’s covenant relationship with Israel.
Background
Author: Traditionally Moses
Audience: Israel, the newly formed nation of God
Date: 1440–1400 BC or 1260–1220 BC (depending on chronology)
Location Written: Wilderness
Context: After centuries in Egypt, the Israelites had grown into a nation but lived under harsh oppression. God raised up Moses to lead them out through signs and wonders. After the Exodus, God gave Israel His Law and established worship through the tabernacle. The book highlights deliverance, covenant, and God’s presence guiding His people toward the promised land.
Characters
- God — deliverer, covenant maker, and holy presence guiding His people
- Moses — chosen leader delivering Israel and receiving God’s Law
- Aaron — Moses’ brother serving as high priest
- Pharaoh — Egyptian ruler resisting God’s command to free Israel
- Miriam — prophetess and sister of Moses
- Israelites — God’s people delivered from slavery and shaped into a nation
- Jethro — Moses’ father in law offering wisdom and support
- Bezalel and Oholiab — craftsmen empowered to build the tabernacle
Major Events
- Israel’s oppression in Egypt and the birth of Moses (Chapters 1–2)
- God calls Moses through the burning bush (Chapter 3)
- Moses returns to Egypt and confronts Pharaoh (Chapters 4–6)
- Ten plagues demonstrating God’s power and judgment (Chapters 7–12)
- The Passover and Israel’s deliverance (Chapter 12)
- Crossing of the Red Sea and defeat of Egypt’s army (Chapter 14)
- Provision through manna, water, and victory in battle (Chapters 15–17)
- Giving of the Ten Commandments and the Law at Sinai (Chapters 19–24)
- Instructions for the tabernacle and priesthood (Chapters 25–31)
- Israel’s sin with the golden calf and Moses’ intercession (Chapter 32)
- Construction of the tabernacle and God’s glory filling it (Chapters 35–40)
Application & Life Lessons
- God hears, remembers, and delivers His people
- Salvation requires trusting in God’s power, not human ability
- Obedience is central to covenant relationship
- God provides for His people even in wilderness seasons
- Idolatry leads to destruction and distance from God
- Intercession makes a difference in the lives of others
- Worship must be according to God’s design, not human preference
- God desires to dwell with His people and lead them personally
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Exodus 1-18
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Exodus 19-40
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Exodus 1-18
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Exodus 19-40
Podcasts
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Articles
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Bible Reading Plans
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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