CHRONOLOGICAL

A.D.

B.C.

Volume 2

WINTER 2015-16: Leader Guide ESV Ed Stetzer General Editor Trevin Wax Managing Editor ’s Word to You A Summary of the

In the beginning, the all-powerful, created the universe. This God created human beings in His image to live joyfully in His presence, in humble submission to His gracious authority. But all of us have rebelled against God and, in consequence, must suffer the punishment of our rebellion: physical death and the wrath of God.

Thankfully, God initiated a rescue plan, which began with His choosing the nation of Israel to display His glory in a fallen world. The Bible describes how God acted mightily on Israel’s behalf, rescuing His people from slavery and then giving them His holy law. But God’s people—like all of us—failed to rightly reflect the glory of God.

Then, in the fullness of time, in the Person of Jesus Christ, God Himself came to renew the world and restore His people. Jesus perfectly obeyed the law given to Israel. Though innocent, He suffered the consequences of human rebellion by His death on a cross. But three days later, God raised Him from the dead.

Now the church of Jesus Christ has been commissioned by God to take the news of Christ’s work to the world. Empowered by God’s Spirit, the church calls all people everywhere to repent of and to trust in Christ alone for our forgiveness. Repentance and restores our relationship with God and results in a life of ongoing transformation.

The Bible promises that Jesus Christ will return to this earth as the conquering King. Only those who live in repentant faith in Christ will escape God’s judgment and live joyfully in God’s presence for all . God’s message is the same to all of us: repent and believe, before it is too late. Confess with your mouth that Jesus is and believe with your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved. A Word from the Editors

Ed Stetzer General Editor—The Gospel Project Executive Director, LifeWay Research

Who is Yahweh? Perhaps you think this a strange question, especially in this context, but for every person who has a knowledge of God through faith in Jesus Christ, there are countless more who echo Pharaoh’s words: “Who is the Lord that I should obey his voice?…I do not know the Lord” (Ex. 5:2). And God is not content with this situation; nor should we be.

In Genesis, God revealed Himself as the Creator and a Covenant-Maker. In Exodus through Deuteronomy, God reveals Himself—to Pharaoh, the Egyptians, and the Israelites—to be a Redeemer and a Lawgiver. Whether through displays of His power or communication of His law, God’s concern was that the whole world would know “I am the Lord.” There is no other God!

Nor is there another Savior than the One sent to redeem those who believe. You see, as grand as the story of the exodus is—and it is a great and awesome historical account of God fulfilling His covenant and bringing His people out of slavery in Egypt—as great as it is, it is still but a picture foreshadowing the even greater reality that One would come to free people from their slavery to sin and death! So, experience the ground-shaking account of Yahweh redeeming His people, but recognize the earth-shaking redemption from sin that comes through faith in Jesus Christ and proclaim His freedom to the captives.

Trevin Wa x Managing Editor—The Gospel Project Author of multiple books, including Gospel-Centered Teaching, Counterfeit Gospels, and Clear Winter Nights: A Young Man’s Journey into Truth, Doubt, and What Comes After

When I was a kid, I wanted to memorize more than just Bible verses. I wanted to memorize whole books of the Bible. I remember, around the age of 8, deciding I would memorize the Book of Exodus. Epic fail. I only got a few verses in before giving up. But looking back, it’s not surprising that I would choose Exodus. Here was the story of Moses and his own deliverance and transformation into a deliverer to lead his people out of slavery. The story fascinated me as a kid, and it captures me still today.

Exodus (and the rest of the books of law) shines a spotlight on God as the Redeemer. Anytime in the New Testament we come across the words redeem or redemption, we ought to think back to God’s redemptive work in Exodus. This is the pivotal moment in Israel’s history that anchors the rest of the biblical storyline and provides the framework for our understanding of God’s ultimate work of redemption in Jesus Christ. As you and your group work through these fundamental plot points of the Old Testament (the exodus, the Red Sea, the golden calf, the giving of the law, the tabernacle), I hope you’ll not only be swept up in the drama of each story but that you’ll also grow in gratitude for what they teach us about God, His salvation, and His mission to save His people to be a light to the world. EDITORS About the Writers

Unit 1: Tony Merida is the founding pastor of Imago Dei Church in The Gospel Project® Adult Leader Guide ESV Raleigh, North Carolina. He also serves as associate professor Volume 4, Number 2 Winter 2015-16 of preaching at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Eric Geiger His books include Ordinary and the Christ-Centered Exposition Vice President, LifeWay Resources commentary on the Book of Exodus, among others. He is happily Ed Stetzer married to Kimberly, and they have five adopted children. General Editor

Trevin Wax Unit 2: Managing Editor Rick Morton (sessions 7-8) is Vice President of Engagement Daniel Davis Content Editor for Lifeline Children’s Services in Birmingham, Alabama,

Josh Hayes where he leads the ministry’s partnership efforts to manifest Content and Production Editor the gospel to vulnerable children around the world. He is Ken Braddy married to Denise, and they have two middle school sons and Manager, Adult Ongoing Bible Studies a daughter in college. Michael Kelley Director, Groups Ministry Kendell Easley (sessions 9-12) is a professor of biblical Send questions/comments to: studies at Union University and is the director of the Master of Managing Editor, The Gospel Project: Adult Leader Guide, Christian Studies and Doctor of Ministry programs for Union One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0102; in the Memphis area. He also serves as pastor of McLean or make comments on the Web at www.lifeway.com. Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee. Kendell is married to

Printed in the United States of America Nancy, and they have one married young adult son.

The Gospel Project®: Adult Leader Guide ESV Unit 3: (ISSN 2330-9377; Item 005573550) is published quarterly by LifeWay Christian Resources, One D. A. Horton is currently serving in the Church Planting LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234, Thom S. Rainer, President. © 2015 LifeWay Christian Resources. Residency at Summit Church in Durham, North Carolina. For ordering or inquiries, visit www.lifeway.com, He and his wife, Elicia, and their three children are preparing or write LifeWay Resources Customer Service, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0113. to plant a church in Los Angles, California. He is working For subscriptions or subscription address changes, e-mail [email protected], on his PhD in Applied at Southeastern Baptist fax (615) 251-5818, or write to the above address. For bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address, Theological Seminary. e-mail [email protected], fax (615) 251-5933, or write to the above address. We believe that the Bible has God for its author; salvation for its end; and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter and that all Scripture is totally true and trustworthy. To review LifeWay’s doctrinal guideline, please visit www.lifeway.com/doctrinalguideline. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the English Standard Version® (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations marked (HCSB) are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. All Scripture quotations marked (GNT) are from the Good News Translation in Today’s English Version— Second Edition Copyright © 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by permission. WRITERS Table of Contents

Suggested for the week of

Unit 1: God the Redeemer December 6 7 Session 1 The Redeemer Responds December 13 19 Session 2 The Redeemer Reveals His Glory December 27 31 Session 3 The Redeemer Judges and Saves January 3 43 Session 4 Worthy of Praise January 10 55 Session 5 The Wilderness Test January 17 67 Session 6 Rebellion Against the Redeemer

Unit 2: God the Lawgiver January 24 79 Session 7 The Loving Lawgiver January 31 91 Session 8 God of Our Relationships February 7 103 Session 9 The Lawgiver’s Tabernacle February 14 115 Session 10 Atonement Sacrifices (Part 1) February 21 127 Session 11 Atonement Sacrifices (Part 2) February 28 139 Session 12 The Law’s Blessing and Curse

Unit 3: Christmas December 20 151 Special Session The Glory of Christmas

Editor’s Note: In order to preserve the narrative flow of our study through Scripture (and since some users of The Gospel Project are on a different schedule), we have placed the Special Session for Christmas at the end of both the Leader Guide and Personal Study Guide. The week prior to your intended use of this session, remind your group members to study the Christmas session at the end of the book. How to Use The Gospel Project

Tips from Trevin on how best to use this Leader Guide Welcome to The Gospel Project! Think of yourself as a guide leading your group on a tour of God’s Word, journeying through the Bible’s grand story and encountering the riches of Christ’s redemption. We hope The Gospel Project will provide you with the tools and resources you need as you prayerfully seek to apply the truth of the gospel to the people God has placed in your group. Here are some things to remember as you use this Leader Guide:

Pray. Pray for your group. Don’t lead in your own strength.

Adapt. You know the style of your group. If more discussion-oriented, then encourage group members to read the session ahead of time. Use the “Further Discussion” questions in the Session Plan to facilitate discussion that stays grounded in the session. If you take a more master-teacher approach, then spend time familiarizing yourself with the Expanded Session Content. Select questions that make the most strategic sense for moving the session along.

Cut. If it seems to you that The Gospel Project provides too much material for one session, you’re right. We chose to deliver more than you need and to include the bulk of the content in the Personal Study Guide (PSG) so you don’t feel pressed to get all the content delivered in the session time itself. Refer your group members to the PSG.

Add. The PSG has the bulk of the content from the Leader Guide, but not all of it. Throughout the Expanded Session Content, you will see portions of leader-only content marked off in the margin, as this portion is. These sections might be transitions between points, illustrations, answers to questions, content for interactive portions in the PSG, and even theological connections. The Session Plan will reference the more vital sections, but as you shape each session, consider how these leader-only sections can benefit your group.

Personalize. Take the truths in The Gospel Project and enhance them. Add personal stories. Ask penetrating questions that go to the heart of the people you know and love.

Resource yourself. (Encourage your group to take advantage of these resources too.) Make use of the additional resources suggested at the end of each session. • Read a suggested chapter or section in a book. • Learn from the “Tip of the Week” to grow as a teacher and a group in spiritual maturity. Visit GospelProject.com/Blog for the following: • Read blog posts related to the overall study theme and specific sessions. • Listen to a brief video as I point out the highlights to focus on for the upcoming session. Visit GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources to access these resources: • Read online articles and blog posts related to the session content. • Listen to helpful podcasts from pastors and church leaders. • Download suggestions for interactive options to help address a variety of learning styles.

Overflow. Remember…The Gospel Project is not just a curriculum. We are the project. As we immerse ourselves in the great story of redemption, God’s Spirit uses the gospel to change us. Don’t prepare simply for the content you’re going to deliver. Let the truths of God’s Word soak in as you study. A great leader is not a dispenser of information but an overflowing river of gospel passion. Let God work on your heart first, and then pray that He will change the hearts of the people He has entrusted to your care.

6 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 SESSION 1 The Redeemer Responds

Summary and Goal

God responded to Israel’s terrible plight by listening to the of His oppressed people, revealing His character to Moses, and promising to deliver and redeem them. Watching God reveal Himself and His justice should inspire us to our Redeemer and pursue His mission in the world. Main Passage Exodus 2:23–3:22 Session Outline 1. God responds by listening to the prayers of the oppressed (Ex. 2:23–3:10). 2. God responds by revealing His character (Ex. 3:11-15). 3. God responds by promising redemption (Ex. 3:16-22).

Theological Theme God is good and just. He sees the suffering of the oppressed and promises redemption. Christ Connection God told Moses His name “I AM” as a of His good and righteous character. Jesus is the great “I AM” who gave us an even greater revelation of God’s goodness and righteousness. Missional Application God calls us to be conscious of the plight of the oppressed and, in response, to show and share the .

Date of My Bible Study: ______7

© 2015 LifeWay Christian Resources. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute within the license agreement with purchaser. Session Plan The Redeemer Responds Session 1

Introduction Pack Item 1: Begin by calling to mind our lighthearted view of Egypt, and then contrast God Delivers that with the serious circumstance in which the Israelites found themselves— Display this poster in a under Egyptian slavery (leader p. 10; personal study guide [PSG] p. 10). place that will help group members follow the storyline of Scripture, to Why were the Israelites in Egypt? remember where we’ve been and where we are going. How would their slavery have affected their view of God’s covenant promise?

Introduction Option If helpful, recount the storyline of Genesis that led the Israelites to Egypt and If you still have “The into slavery (leader p. 10). Then summarize the session (leader pp. 10-11; Promise of Genesis” on PSG pp. 10-11). display, refer to it to help recount the storyline of Genesis and how the 1. God responds by listening to the prayers of Israelites ended up in Egypt. the oppressed (Ex. 2:23–3:10). (“The Promise of Genesis” was Pack Item 10 from “The Introduce and read Exodus 2:23-25 (leader p. 11). Note God’s attentive Story Begins” Leader Pack.) nature in this passage and explain His concern as a continuation of His covenant with Abraham in Genesis (leader p. 11; PSG p. 11).

Sinful, evil deeds often remain hidden in the world and in Pack Item 2: our lives. How does it comfort you to know God sees every The Exodus Map sinful deed done against you? Display this map before the group meeting. How does it challenge you to know that God sees every Reference it as needed throughout Units 1 and 2 sinful deed you have done against Him and others? to help group members orient themselves to the people, places, and events Continue the reading of Exodus 3:1-6. Highlight God’s holiness on display written about in the Book through fire and Moses’ response of fear. Those who are in Christ, however, of Exodus and the rest of need not be afraid to approach our Father, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and the Pentateuch. Jacob (leader pp. 12-13; PSG p. 12). For this session, call attention to a possible location for Horeb (also What is the difference between being “terrified” by God and Mount Sinai), the site of being “awed” by God? burning bush and later the giving of the law.

8 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 Read Exodus 3:7-10. Explain God’s motive and purpose in His planned response to the cry of His oppressed people (leader p. 13; PSG p. 13). Point 1 Option Have group members read How does it encourage you to know that God hears the the “Essential Christian cries of the oppressed? Doctrine” Enslaved to Sin (leader p. 13; PSG p. 13) and reflect on how slavery to sin 2. God responds by revealing His character compares to the Israelites’ slavery in Egypt. After a (Ex. 3:11-15). moment, encourage them to pair up with someone Ask a volunteer to read Exodus 3:11-15. Show the weakness of Moses’ excuse(s) and share their thoughts, in the light of God’s promised presence (leader pp. 14-15; PSG p. 14). and then have the pairs share one conclusion with the group. What are some areas in which you feel unqualified or unable to do what God has called you to do? Ask the following question: • How should the cry of those enslaved to sin How does God’s presence and His promise enable you differ from the cry of those to go on? who have been liberated in Christ? Explain the significance of God’s name—as near as we can tell—as a revelation of His character (leader p. 15; PSG p. 15).

When we feel inadequate to obey God’s call, what are For Further some ways we can move our eyes from the magnitude of Discussion the task to the majesty of God Himself? How would you describe the sign God gave to Moses in Exodus 3:12? 3. God responds by promising redemption Would you find comfort in (Ex. 3:16-22). such a sign, that confirmation would come as the result Read Exodus 3:16-22. Point out God’s sovereign prediction about what was of obedience rather than at going to happen: the elders would listen; Pharaoh would not. God promised the beginning of obedience? Why or why not? to perform wonders that would force Pharaoh to let the people go. Though Moses continued making excuses, God would use him to report His words of redemption (leader pp. 16-17; PSG p. 16).

What are the fears that most hinder you from speaking on God’s behalf? Christ Connection: God told Moses His name How can we overcome these excuses with faith in God’s “I AM” as a revelation of promised redemption? His good and righteous character. Jesus is the great “I AM” who gave us Conclusion an even greater revelation of God’s goodness Recap the session and show how these events point forward to the redemption and righteousness. from sin that comes through Jesus, the great I AM. Emphasize the Christ ...... Connection for this session and draw attention to Pack Item 3: Seeing Jesus Missional Application: God in the Exodus to help group members begin looking for ways God is already calls us to be conscious of pointing forward to the coming of Jesus. Also show how our deliverance should the plight of the oppressed and, in response, to show shape the way we show and share the love of God (leader p. 17; PSG p. 17). and share the love of God. Apply the truths of this session with “His Mission, Your Mission” (PSG p. 18).

Session 1 9 Expanded Session Content The Redeemer Responds Session 1

Introduction Voices from In the 1980s, a song titled “Walk Like an Egyptian” by the Bangles the Church shot up the charts and led to people of all ages doing the lighthearted “God is grieved by the sin, “sand dance.” (The move was supposed to reflect ancient Egyptian art.) death, and power of that afflicts His world, and Even today, people unfamiliar with the song know the dance. is sacrificially involved in However, “Walk Like an Egyptian” doesn’t lead you to take Egypt the removal of all that destroys and alienates His very seriously. For many in the West, Egypt is known primarily for ancient world from Himself.” 1 pyramids or King Tut’s tomb. In the period of the exodus, however, people –Joshua Ryan Butler feared Egypt. Egypt had mighty Pharaohs, great building projects, and they were in touch with dark power. Everyone took Egypt seriously. Israel certainly wasn’t doing the Egyptian sand dance. They were enslaved to the Egyptians, and it’s the awfulness of their slavery that sets the dark backdrop for God’s glorious deliverance that takes place.

Why were the Israelites in Egypt?

How would their slavery have affected their view of God’s covenant promise?

In Genesis, we saw how Joseph, Jacob’s beloved son, was taken to Egypt because his jealous brothers sold him into slavery. After interpreting dreams, Joseph gained favor in the eyes of Pharaoh. Joseph ended up helping save lives by storing up food during the seven good years in preparation for a seven-year famine. So all the earth came to Egypt to buy grain (Gen. 41:57). During this time, Joseph’s family went to Egypt and Joseph provided food for them (Gen. 42). His family resettled in the Nile Delta. This family of 70 people entered Egypt (see Gen. 46), and from there, they multiplied greatly (Ex. 1:1-7). In Exodus 1:8, we read that a new king over Egypt dealt harshly with the Israelites. As a result, Joseph’s family was brought under political slavery (1:8-10), economic slavery (1:11-14), social slavery (1:15-22), and spiritual slavery (3:18; 4:22-23; 5:8). They desperately needed to get out of Egypt.

10 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 Session Summary “Exodus” means “a going out” or “departure.” This book of the Bible provides the historical account of God’s deliverance of His people from Egypt’s cruel slavery. In this session, we see how God responds to Israel’s terrible plight by listening to the prayers of His oppressed people, revealing His character to Moses, and promising to deliver and redeem them. Watching God reveal Himself and His justice should inspire us to worship our Redeemer and pursue His mission in the world.

1. God responds by listening to the prayers of the oppressed (Ex. 2:23–3:10). Further In chapter 2 of the Book of Exodus, we read about Moses’ birth Commentary (2:1-10), his growth (2:11-15), and his flight from Egypt (2:15-22). The “Chapter 3 begins by setting the scene of what story continues in verse 23 with a new king ruling Egypt. Despite this is about to occur. Moses change in government, slavery remains intense. As a result, Israel groans was leading the flock belonging to Jethro…It is and cries out for help. important to note that Egyptians didn’t think 23 During those many days the king of Egypt died, and the people of highly at all of shepherds (see Gen. 46:34). It is also Israel groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help. Their cry for important to recognize the rescue from slavery came up to God. 24 And God heard their groaning, shepherding pattern being set here. Moses spent and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with 40 years as a shepherd in Jacob. 25 God saw the people of Israel—and God knew. Midian. David was also a shepherd who was taken from the sheepfolds to When the people cried out, God heard them. God also saw their become king. God loves to use shepherds! He oppression, and the writer said that God took notice of the situation even refers to Himself (2:24-25). God heard. God saw. God knew. God’s attentive nature is as a shepherd (Ps. 23:1; Ezek. 34:13). Ultimately, revealed throughout the Scriptures. The psalmist said, “The eyes of the salvation would come Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry” (Ps. 34:15). through Jesus, the good shepherd, who laid God’s people can cry out to their God and trust that He hears them and down His life for His cares about their situation. sheep (John 10:11).” 3 These cries were of particular interest to God because of His covenant –Tony Merida with Abraham (2:24). The term “covenant” appears here for the first time in Exodus. It appears 27 times in Genesis. It may be best defined in The Jesus Storybook Bible as “a Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love.” 2 God’s purpose of redemption and mission given to Abraham in the Book of Genesis continues in the exodus story. God cares about His people.

Sinful, evil deeds often remain hidden in the world and in our lives. How does it comfort you to know God sees every sinful deed done against you?

How does it challenge you to know that God sees every sinful deed you have done against Him and others?

Session 1 11 In chapter 3 we hear some of the same language, and we see the holy Further God to whom we pray. This time God told Moses that He had heard the Commentary groans of His people. God called Moses to serve as His agent of “The possibility of danger redemption and, in so doing, reminded Moses that He had heard Israel’s implicit in human contact prayers. As a result of this, God told Moses of His plan to free them. The with God is reflected throughout Scripture writer gave the description of Moses’ call this way: (19:21-24; 24:11; 33:20-23; Gen. 32:30; Judg. 13:20-23; 1 Isa. 6:5; Acts 9:3-9; Now Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the 1 Tim. 6:15-16; Rev. 19:11-21). priest of Midian, and he led his flock to the west side of the wilderness This place was holy, not 2 because of any quality and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. And the angel of the Lord intrinsic to it, but because appeared to him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush. He looked, of God’s presence and 3 activity. The tabernacle and behold, the bush was burning, yet it was not consumed. And would be a place set apart Moses said, “I will turn aside to see this great sight, why the bush is by the Lord’s presence 4 (Ex. 29:43-44). To stay at not burned.” When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God a distance and remove called to him out of the bush, footwear was then and is now in many cultures a sign “Moses, Moses!” And he said, of respect and humility. The “Here I am.” 5 Then he said, Lord’s self-identification, which began, I am the God “Do not come near; take of your father, connected your sandals off your feet, this event with the past both by naming the for the place on which you patriarchs and by the are standing is holy ground.” wording of the statement 6 (Gen. 15:7; 17:1; 26:24; 28:13; And he said, “I am the God 31:13; 35:11; 46:3). It also of your father, the God of had the ring of a formal pronouncement by a Abraham, the God of Isaac, king (Gen. 41:44).” 4 and the God of Jacob.” And –Dorian G. Coover-Cox, Moses hid his face, for he was HCSB Study Bible afraid to look at God.

In this passage, we read of the burning bush and “the angel of the Lord” who appeared to Moses. The fire represents God’s holy presence. Fire is appropriate because we know that we are drawn to fire, amazed by fire, but we also have to tell children, “Don’t play with fire.” Fire must be taken seriously. And so is God. He is holy. God spoke to Moses and called him to take his sandals off as an act of reverence (3:5; see Josh. 5:13-15). God then identified Himself with the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (3:6). Before God entered into a relationship with Moses, He had entered into a relationship with Moses’ fathers (see 2:24). God was also giving Moses a bit of personal history of Himself. The God of the burning bush wasn’t an unknown God; He was the God who acted on behalf of these men earlier in history. Notice that God did not say, “I was the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,” but rather, “I am the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” This indicates that God’s people never really die; they’re part of an eternal relationship with God.

12 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 When Moses encountered God, the Scripture says Moses “hid his face” (3:6). Why? Because Moses was in the presence of the Holy One. We should Voices from understand Moses’ fear. We should also maintain a sense of reverence before Church History God. However, as believers, we don’t have to hide from God in terror “When the Holy One called because of the work of Christ. We are hidden in Him (Col. 3:3)! Therefore, Moses from the bush he said thus to him, ‘I am the we can seek God with confidence because of the work of Christ. God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.’ When Death What is the difference between being “terrified” by God and heard this utterance, he being “awed” by God? trembled and feared and was terrified and perturbed and knew that he had not become king forever over 7 ord Then theL said, “I have surely seen the affliction of my people the children of Adam.” 5 who are in Egypt and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters. –Aphrahat (circa 230-360) I know their sufferings,8 and I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and 99 Essential the Jebusites. 9 And now, behold, the cry of the people of Israel has come to Christian Doctrines me, and I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptians oppress 43. Enslaved to Sin them. 10 Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people, Because of the fall of Adam and Eve in the garden of the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” Eden, all of humanity has inherited a sin nature that inclines them toward sin In verses 7-10, this holy God responds to the cries of the oppressed by and rebellion. Human revealing His plan to Moses. God’s motive appears in verses 7 and 9. God beings are enslaved to sin (Rom. 6:17), told Moses that He was aware of the people’s desperate situation. He said, continually living with the “I have surely seen…have heard…I know their sufferings…[their] cry…has propensity to transgress God’s commandments come to me…I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptians whenever possible. It isn’t oppress them.” These phrases echo the words of 2:23-25 and show us that until one experiences salvation through the God does indeed hear our cries. work of Christ that he or Are you crying out to God personally? We should be encouraged she is able to overcome sin’s enslavement by the fact that God hears those who humbly cry out to Him (see through the power of the Luke 18:13-14). God is high and holy, yet He hears the prayers of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:2). meek and lowly (see Isa. 57:15). Next, God responded by explaining His purpose to Moses. His purpose was to relocate His people. He would take them out of Egypt and put them in a place with milk and honey (3:8-9). God was going to save them from something (slavery) for something (worship and witness). That’s exactly what has happened to us through Christ’s work on our behalf. In Ephesians 2:1-10, Paul told the Ephesians that they had been saved (by grace through faith) from wrath and for good works. Paul also described this glorious transfer to the Colossians, saying: “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of ” (Col. 1:13-14).

Session 1 13 How does it encourage you to know that God hears the cries of the oppressed?

2. God responds by revealing His character Further (Ex. 3:11-15). Commentary We’ve seen how God responds to injustice by hearing the prayers of “I am who I am (Heb. ’ehyeh the oppressed. He hears, He sees, and He acts. But part of His action is to ’ašer ’ehyeh): possibly ‘I will reveal His character. Take a look at how God reveals His character: be what I will be.’ This pithy clause is clearly a reference to the name YHWH…Since 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh this is the only place in 12 the Old Testament where and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” He said, “But I will there is any explanation of be with you, and this shall be the sign for you, that I have sent you: the meaning of the name YHWH, we ought therefore when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on to take very seriously the this mountain.” association with ‘being’ 13 which is clearly stated Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say here…Granted, however, to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, the general connection 14 with ‘being,’ what is the ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I am exact meaning? Simplest who I am.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel, ‘I am has sent me of all, does it mean that 15 God exists, as opposed to to you.’ ” God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel, ‘The idols without being? Along Lord, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and these lines, Hyatt sees ‘I am He who is’ as a possible the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This is my name forever, and thus translation: he also sees I am to be remembered throughout all generations. Hosea 1:9 as a possible reference to this meaning (in a negative sense). Does Moses wasn’t eager to go on mission. In the following dialogue, Moses it mean ‘I am incomparable, inscrutable to human made several excuses for not obeying God’s call. God responded to each of eyes’ (Ex. 33:19)? This, Moses’ excuses and questions with statements about His own sovereignty though true, would hardly be a further revelation. and power. Or does it mean ‘I will This section is deeply encouraging. If you feel as though God is only be understood by my own subsequent acts sending you to do something beyond yourself, the key is to take your eyes and words of revelation’? off of your failures and weaknesses. Get a vision of God. Moses too had to This would seem to fit the biblical pattern, for in all recognize that God is enough. subsequent Israelite history Moses’ first argument was about himself. “Who am I?” he asked (3:11). God would be known as the One who brought Israel He felt insufficient. He essentially asked, “Have you considered my resume? from Egypt (Ex. 20:2). The The last 40 years, I’ve been in a wilderness.” Stop and think about it. revelation of the name therefore is not merely a Moses was a shepherd. While he used to be a prince, he was now a humble deep theological truth; it shepherd. God asked this shepherd to confront the most powerful person in is a call to the response of faith by Moses and the world and tell him to let his slaves go free. This would be sort of like an by Israel.” 6 average blue-collar worker declaring war on a president of a major country. –R. Alan Cole Can you imagine your plumber declaring war on Russia?

14 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 Moses was an average guy, and he didn’t have great influence. Yet God responded to Moses by revealing what’s most important—Himself. God Voices from said, “I will be with you” (3:12). Throughout the Bible, this is what God’s Church History leaders need to lead—God’s presence. It’s the nonnegotiable for serving “[God] needs no one, but God. Think about Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Gideon, Jehoshaphat, and the when faith is present He works through anyone.” 7 disciples. God was with them all. -A. W. Tozer (1897-1963) In addition to God’s presence, God also promised a sign. He said, “You shall serve God on this mountain” (3:12). God intended to bring His people back to this mountain to sing His praises.

What are some areas in which you feel unqualified or Further unable to do what God has called you to do? Commentary “Tradition maintains that at the time of the Exodus How does God’s presence and His promise enable you Moses introduced his to go on? people to a new covenant name for God—Yahweh (pronounced Yah-way). Moses’ next big question was “What is Your name?” (3:13). It was When God spoke to Moses from the burning bush, obviously important to know who God is, especially if you are going to tell Moses asked Him for His a group of people that God sent you! Merely saying, “I heard a voice in a name. God responded by giving him the name bush,” wouldn’t be very persuasive. Yahweh…This word appears So God told Moses His name (3:14-15). God revealed His name as about 6,800 times in the Old Testament… “Yahweh” (commonly rendered as “Lord” in English) in verse 15. Great Exodus 3:14 is the only mystery exists here. No one really knows how to pronounce God’s name, real attempt made in the Old Testament to explain and the meaning is mysterious also, but the meaning seems to be related the meaning of the name to the idea of this verb “to be.” In other words, “God is.” He is central. He Yahweh. In this verse, YHWH is translated as the has no beginning. He causes everything to be. He alone is God. great I AM.” 8 I AM Does it move you when you hear, “Tell them sent you”? God –Hershel H. Hobbs, was saying that He is absolutely central. Paul later said, “For from him and Biblical Illustrator through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen” (Rom. 11:36). Is God central in your life? Is He central in your marriage? Is He central in your ministry? God told Moses that the most important thing about his mission was God Himself! Behold, the greatness of your God. God is self-existent and self- sufficient. God needs no air, no sleep, and no food. He doesn’t need us, but we need Him! God wasn’t like the Egyptian false . He was and is the one true God on whom all things depend. God is also majestic in His mysteriousness. We will never have God totally figured out. He doesn’t involve us in His work because He needs us; He includes us because He loves us.

When we feel inadequate to obey God’s call, what are some ways we can move our eyes from the magnitude of the task to the majesty of God Himself?

Session 1 15 3. God responds by promising redemption Further (Ex. 3:16-22). Commentary God responds to the cries of His people by hearing their prayers, by “After God performed revealing His character, and finally by promising redemption. God gave these wonders, the Egyptians would allow the Moses a message to give to the elders of Israel. Notice God’s sovereign Israelites to plunder them prediction about what was going to happen: (Ex. 3:21-22)…God was setting another pattern: the idea of conquering 16 Go and gather the elders of Israel together and say to them, ‘TheL ord, and taking the spoils. the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, has Paul later said that after Jesus Christ conquered appeared to me, saying, “I have observed you and what has been done to our greatest enemies of you in Egypt, 17 and I promise that I will bring you up out of the affliction sin and death, ‘He took prisoners into captivity; of Egypt to the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the He gave gifts to people’ Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, a land flowing with milk and (Eph. 4:8). What is amazing is that the Israelites are honey.” ’ 18 And they will listen to your voice, and you and the elders of simply told to ask for it. Israel shall go to the king of Egypt and say to him, ‘TheL ord, the God God is fighting the battle for them, which is another of the Hebrews, has met with us; and now, please let us go a three days’ pattern. Also noteworthy journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.’ is that these precious metals will be used to 19 But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless compelled construct the tabernacle by a mighty hand. 20 So I will stretch out my hand and strike Egypt with (Ex. 35:4-9,20-29).” 9 all the wonders that I will do in it; after that he will let you go. 21 And –Tony Merida I will give this people favor in the sight of the Egyptians; and when you go, you shall not go empty, 22 but each woman shall ask of her neighbor, and any woman who lives in her house, for silver and gold jewelry, and for clothing. You shall put them on your sons and on your daughters. So you shall plunder the Egyptians.”

In this striking promise, Moses was learning what it means to be a prophet: to declare God’s message and to trust in God to work in people’s hearts. Consider how God told Moses that the elders “will listen to your voice” (3:18). This wasn’t the last time God would promise Moses that people would respond to His message. Notice also that Moses and the elders were going to say to Pharaoh: “Please let us go a three days’ journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God” (3:18). We see here that Israel wasn’t just enslaved physically, but they were enslaved spiritually too. They needed to be freed in order to worship (see 7:16; 8:1,20; 9:1,13; 10:3). It’s unclear why they only asked for a “three-day” trip. It may have been an ancient Near Eastern expression to mean a long journey of an indefinite period of time. What was important about the trip, however, was the purpose—worship. Even though the elders would listen to Moses’ message, God reminded Moses that Pharaoh would not listen, at least not initially. God told Moses that in response to Pharaoh’s refusal, He would intervene with His “mighty hand” performing wonders (3:19-20).

16 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 Moses still wasn’t convinced. In chapter 4, he argued with God. Moses complained that no one would believe his message (4:1-9). But God Voices from assured him that they would. the Church Then Moses used his speech problem as perhaps his most widely “Exodus-shaped redemption known excuse for not obeying God’s plan (4:10-12). God told Moses that demands exodus-shaped mission. And that means this excuse was irrelevant and irreverent. Concerning the latter, God said, that our commitment to “Who has made man’s mouth?” (4:11). God told Moses that He formed mission must demonstrate the same broad totality of him for a purpose. God knew about Moses’ weakness. And it was precisely concern for human need because of this weakness that God would gain much glory. that God demonstrated in what he did for Israel…Our God told Moses that his excuse was irrelevant: “I will be with your mission must be derived mouth and teach you what you shall speak” (4:12; cf. Jer. 1:4-10). When from God’s mission.” 10 Moses again expressed reluctance, God responded to him with anger –Christopher Wright (4:14), but He was gracious here as well. He gave Moses some help by sending Aaron with him (4:14-16). God is looking for reporters, not orators. We do not have to make fine speeches; we just give the news. Moses had to learn, like us, that “it’s not about you!” It’s about the I AM.

What are the fears that most hinder you from speaking on God’s behalf?

How can we overcome these excuses with faith in God’s promised redemption?

Conclusion The plan was in place! God responded by revealing His promise of redemption to the reluctant shepherd-mediator, Moses. And here we look forward through the Scriptures to Jesus, the great I AM who gave us an even greater revelation of God’s goodness and righteousness. He is the Good Shepherd who would lay down His life for His sheep in order to lead us out of a greater slavery into a greater freedom—from the kingdom of darkness into His kingdom of light. As the people of God’s kingdom, we are formed by God’s deliverance. In this story, we see how God promised deliverance from (1) socio- political-physical-economic slavery and (2) from spiritual slavery. Christians should care about alleviating both types of human suffering: temporal suffering and especially eternal suffering. Let’s do both in the power of our self-sufficient, -hearing God.

CHRIST CONNECTION: God told Moses His name “I AM” as a revelation of His good and righteous character. Jesus is the great “I AM” who gave us an even greater revelation of God’s goodness and righteousness.

Session 1 17 Additional Resources The Redeemer Responds

References Get expert insights on weekly studies through Ministry 1. Joshua Ryan Butler, The Skeletons Grid at MinistryGrid.com/web/TheGospelProject. in God’s Closet (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2014), 15. Grow with other group leaders at the Group Ministry 2. Sally Lloyd-Jones, The Jesus blog at LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry. Storybook Bible (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2007), 36. 3. Tony Merida, Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in Exodus Study Material (Nashville: B&H, 2014), 22. 4. Dorian G. Coover-Cox, in HCSB --“Moses and the Deliverance”—Pages 61-66 from Telling God’s Story Study Bible (Nashville: B&H, 2010), by Preben Vang and Terry G. Carter 102, n. 3:6. 5. Aphrahat, Demonstrations 22.2, --“In the World: How Excellent Are Thy Names”—Article by Ken Hemphill; quoted in Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, ed. Joseph find a link to this article at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources T. Lienhard, vol. III in Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture: --Previous Biblical Illustrator articles, including “When God Speaks,” Old Testament (Downers Grove: IVP, 2001), 15-16. can be purchased, along with other articles for this quarter, at 6. R. Alan Cole, Exodus, in Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries LifeWay.com/BiblicalIllustrator. Look for Bundles: The Gospel Project. (Downers Grove: IVP, 1973), 69-70. 7. A. W. Tozer, quoted in 1001 Quotations That Connect, Sermon Podcast eds. Craig Brian Larson and Brian Lowery (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2009), Quotation 495. Dhati Lewis: “Saved From, Saved For” 8. Hershel H. Hobbs, “Yahweh,” Biblical Illustrator (Fall 1974): 14. 9. Tony Merida, Christ-Centered Find a link to this at GospelProject.com/AdditionalResources Exposition: Exalting Jesus in Exodus, 27-28. 10. Christopher J. H. Wright, The Mission of God (Downers Grove: IVP, 2006), 275-76. Tip of the Week The Gospel Project Leader Pack

Throughout the session plans in this Leader Guide, you will see references to pack items that will enhance your group meeting and help group members gain more from this study of God’s Word. These items are available in The Gospel Project for Adults: Leader Pack. • The posters and charts in the Leader Pack will help foster discussion within your group and make clear the connections throughout the Scriptures. • The map will help put the stories of Scripture in geographical context. • The pack also includes some take-away items so group members can recall what they learned in the session and be reminded to apply what they learned as they go about their mission of making Jesus known in the world. • The DVD in the pack contains customizable files of the Leader session plans and commentary, as well as videos from our managing editor that will help leaders make the most efficient use of their group time.

The Gospel Project for Adults: Leader Packis available in print and digital formats. Order today at GospelProject.com or by calling 800-458-2772.

18 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 Scope and Sequence

GOAL Over the course of three years, participants will journey from Genesis to Revelation and discover how God’s plan of redemption unfolds throughout Scripture and still today, compelling them to join the mission of God.

PLAN OVERVIEW Fall 2015 The Story Begins God the Creator (Genesis 1–11) God the Covenant-Maker (Genesis 12–50) Winter 2015-16 God Delivers God the Redeemer (Exodus) God the Lawgiver (Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy) Coming Next Quarter Spring 2016 The Promised Land God the Savior (Numbers, Joshua) God the Judge (Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel) Summer 2016 A Kingdom Established God the King (1–2 Samuel) God All Wise (1 Kings, Job, Ecclesiastes, Psalms, Proverbs) Fall 2016 Prophets and Kings God the Revealer (1–2 Kings, Isaiah) God the Pursuer (Prophets, 1–2 Chronicles) Winter 2016-17 Exile and Return God the Sustainer (Daniel, Ezra) God the Provider (Esther, Nehemiah, Malachi)

Spring 2017 The Rescue Begins God the Son (Gospels) God Among Us (Gospels) Summer 2017 Stories and Signs Jesus the Storyteller (Synoptic Gospels) Jesus the Miracle-Worker (Gospels) Fall 2017 Jesus Saves Jesus the Savior (Gospels) Jesus the Risen King (Gospels, Acts) Winter 2017-18 The Church on Mission The Spirit Who Empowers (Acts) The God Who Sends (Acts) Spring 2018 Letters to God’s People The God Who Directs His People (Epistles) The God Who Changes Us (Epistles) Summer 2018 Come, Lord Jesus God’s Prisoner (Acts, Epistles) The God Who Makes All Things New (Epistles, Revelation)

162 Leader Guide • Winter 2015-16 BHPublishingGroup.com VOLUME 3 THE PROMISED LAND Unit 1 God the Savior (Numbers, Joshua) WRITERS: Philip Nation and Robert Smith Unit 2 God the Judge Coming Up Next (Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel) WRITERS: Afshin Ziafat and Matt Boswell New Studies for Spring 2016

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TOPICS SCRIPTURE: More Than Enough: ACTS 1–12 How Jesus Meets Our Deepest Needs General Editor: Vance Pitman BY Jeff Iorg LifeWay.com/ExploreTheBible Beauty from Ashes: Redeeming Your Broken Moments BY Clayton King SCRIPTURE Studies in the Gospel of John and various Old and New Testament passages.

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