Exodus
The story of Exodus tells of God leading the slaves of Egypt, or the Hebrew people, out of slavery and shows the process of transforming the Hebrew slaves into a nation. Many events occur during this time that show how God was working to lead his people out of slavery and into a life of prosperity and faith. Passover is the holiday that celebrates the redemption from slavery and the Hebrew exodus from Egypt. Moses was the shepherd who was chosen by God to approach the Pharaoh and demand freedom for the Israelites. The Pharaoh would ultimately refuse, and only after 10 famous plagues were the Israelites allowed to go. In a time of fear they would leave very quickly, but the Pharaoh would again change his mind and give chase with his army to capture back his slaves. The final showdown would occur on the banks of the Sea of Reeds (often referred to as The Red Sea) when the Israelites would find themselves trapped between the water and the Army. The standoff would end dramatically when the sea splits in two and the Israelites walk through the sea-bed to safety. The Egyptian army would attempt to follow the Israelites through the suspended waters; however, the water closed on them and they all would drown.
Exodus 19:3-6 shows God speaking to the Israelites through Moses, and shows God’s promise to the people that he would favor them above all other nation if they would obey his words. In Exodus 19:3 Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain and said, "This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel. 19:4 'You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. 19:5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 19:6 you [a] will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words you are to speak to the...
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