Bible Study - Exodus 1.8-22

Bible Study – Exodus 1.8-22

• An ancient story giving the background to the emergence of Moses
• Frighteningly modern in its expose of human failings
• A progression of attitudes which is all too familiar in recent history

Introduction

A progression of attitudes – discuss each step – significance then and in later history and today.

V8 IGNORANCE – the new king/pharaoh knew nothing about Joseph

V9 EXAGGERATION OF THREAT – “the Israelite people are more numerous and more powerful than we”

V10 PREJUDICE – “Come, let US deal shrewdly with THEM, or they will… and… and…”

V11 OPPRESSION – Forced labour (ironically, to build storage cities – see Genesis 41.46-49)

V12 temporarily alleviates the developing gloom. The oppression causes the Israelites to multiply and spread. But this only causes WIDESPREAD DREAD OF THE FOREIGNERS (no longer just PHARAOH’S fear).

V13-14 The trend continues. Force has not worked, what shall we do? Increase the force – RUTHLESS PERSECUTION (shock and awe?)

V15-16 The FINAL SOLUTION. Hitler wasn’t the first or the last to make this step… At first the attempt at genocide is secret, a private deal between pharaoh and the Hebrew midwives.

V17-21 The midwives’ courageous, godfearing refusal to co-operate paves the way for one further step…

V22 It is the DUTY of EVERY LOYAL EGYPTIAN to KILL every Hebrew boy.

Reflection

Let’s just pause for 5 minutes to reflect in silence on this evil progression. Where does it come from and where is it going? How does it relate to our own nation’s or church’s or family’s history? Do we all have the potential for this in our hearts?

Can we take anything positive from the story?

• GROWTH under PERSECUTION. Compare the experience of the early church in the first 8 chapters of the Acts of the Apostles. Apart from the Bible, what other examples of growth under persecution can you think of?
• The ROLE OF WOMEN is very striking. Pharaoh’s concentrates his attack on male babies, leaving the source of life unchecked. In a clash between two patriarchal societies, the women play a key role in preparing for liberation. More of this on Sunday when we look at chapter 2.
• GOD IS AT WORK BEHIND THE SCENES. Even though his people are in extreme danger and distress, God is clearly on the side of the poor and oppressed and is protecting, sustaining and watching over them.

Food for thought

How does this passage point to the world’s need for a Redeemer, a Saviour? Who can fill that role – Moses? Jesus? Someone or something else?