Discussion Questions – January 19, 2020 These questions are discussed in home small groups. If you would like more information about small groups or would like to join a small group, let us know on a blue card or send an e-mail to [email protected]

Exodus – “Rescued for God’s Glory”

“The – The Place of God’s Presence”

1. As you read about the Ark of the Covenant in Exodus 25:10-22, what impacts you the most? Did you learn anything you didn’t know before?

2. In Exodus 25, the “Mercy Seat” – or atonement cover, was to have cherubim at both ends. (verses 18-22). Cherubim were also woven into the curtains for the interior of the and the veil that separated the Holy Place from the (Exodus 26:1,31)

Read Genesis 3:22-24.

• Do you think there is a connection between the cherubim in Genesis 3 and the Tabernacle? If so, what do you think it is?

3. David was a “man after God’s own heart”. His relationship with God was the most important thing in his life.

Read Psalm 61.

• What is David experiencing?

• Where does he want to live?

• What about God’s character gives David hope?

Lake Tapps Community Church 4. The High Priest was the one who, representing the people, went into the Most Holy Place each year on the Day of Atonement. He went into God’s presence and January 19, 2020 – Exodus 25:10-22 sprinkled the sacrificial blood on the Mercy Seat and in front of it. (Leviticus 16:14). The Book of tells us that not only is Jesus our High Priest but that He “The Ark of the Covenant – The Place of God’s Presence” brought His own blood into the “true sanctuary” in heaven to make atonement for us. (Hebrews 9:11-12).

• Since Jesus is our High Priest who has opened the way for us into the very presence of God, what are we to do? See Hebrews 4:14-16.

• How do we “draw near”? Practically speaking, what does it look like for a believer to do this?

• How high of a priority should “drawing near” be in our lives? See Psalm 27:4, 7-8.

5. In Exodus 25:22, God told Moses that it was from “above the Mercy Seat” that He would “meet” with him and “speak with you about all that I will give you in commandment for the people of .”

Read Psalm 81:8-16

• Why is God so passionate that His people “listen” to Him?

• What did God do because His people would not listen or obey Him?

• What does He promise to do if they will obey Him?