Introduction

I. Why are we here?

II. Why study the Old Testament?

A. The Old Testament is sacred history to both Jews and Christians, Abecause in these historical experiences, as interpreted by faith, the ultimate meaning of human life is disclosed.@

(Maxie Dunham B The Preacher=s Commentary B Exodus)

B. The primary lesson of the Old Testament is to teach us what God is like and what it means for his people to live that knowledge. AThis is a deeply spiritual book with deeply personal applications. It is not a book to be held at a distance, but a book that the interpreter is required to enter into, because it is God=s book and we are his people.@ (Maxie Dumham)

C. How should a Christian interpret the Old Testament. AA Christian should interpret the Old Testament from the point of view of Christ as the final word in the story of redemption. The final word is displayed for all the world to see in the cross, the empty tomb, and the existence of the church by God=s Spirit.@

(Peter Enns B The NIV Application Commentary B Exodus)

D. The first book of the Old Testament is Genesis and it is all about man, man=s great need for redemption and the redemption promises of God to man.

E. The book of Exodus is all about God and God=s answer to man=s need for redemption. The story of redemption does not end with the book of Exodus but continues on in the books of Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. The full picture finally develops as you enter the Promised Land with Israelites in the book of Joshua.

D. In our study we are going to find out what God is like, how He thinks of His people, the lengths to which He will go to deliver them, and the proper response of God=s people to what He has done for them.

III. Tools needed to help make this study come alive to us.

A. An open mind B free of preconceived ideas and thoughts and a responsive heart. AIf your study of God=s Word does not change the way you live, you are already perfect or not studying correctly.@ (Maxie Dunham)

B. Pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit

C. Set aside time to spend on the lesson.

D. Use at least one other translation. For easy reading, The Message or the New Living Translation are recommended. For those with internet access, log onto biblegateway.com or blueletterbible.org.

E. We need to understand the Israelites B their history, their culture, their economics, their religion, etc. We need to get involved and imagine what it would be like to have been an ordinary Israelite living in Egypt and experiencing all that happens.

F. The format for this study B To be noted the study is not divided up into days.

G. One of the very best features of Wednesday Evening or Friday Morning Bible Study is our small groups. This is an opportunity to discuss the lesson together B share ideas, insights. Every member of the group is important and that means that each of you make a difference in your small group because of who you are.

H. Pray for the other members of your group and your group leader.