January 16th Bible Study: Exodus 5-8
Read Exodus 5-8**or listen to it here:**Exodus 5-8 Audio
In these chapters, the tension between God’s plan and Pharaoh’s stubborn resistance builds, testing the faith of Moses, Aaron, and the Israelites. Moses and Aaron face repeated rejection, yet God continues to demonstrate His sovereignty through signs and wonders that expose the futility of Pharaoh’s defiance. As Pharaoh hardens his heart, God’s mighty power becomes evident in the plagues, revealing His ultimate authority. This part of Exodus reminds us that even when challenges seem overwhelming or progress feels slow, God’s plans are unstoppable, His promises remain steadfast, and His timing is always perfect.
Overview of Exodus 5-8
- Exodus 5: Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh, but Pharaoh refuses to let Israel go and increases their burdens.
- Exodus 6: God reaffirms His covenant and promises deliverance for His people despite their discouragement.
- Exodus 7: The confrontation with Pharaoh begins as Aaron’s staff turns into a serpent, and the first plague turns the Nile to blood.
- Exodus 8: The plagues continue with frogs, gnats, and flies, showing God’s power over Egypt’s gods.
Called For A Purpose
In these chapters, the clash between God’s plan and Pharaoh’s resistance intensifies, putting the faith of Moses, Aaron, and the Israelites to the test. Despite Pharaoh’s repeated rejection, God displays His unmatched power through signs and plagues, showing that His authority surpasses all. This reminds us that even in the face of obstacles, God’s plans cannot be thwarted, and His promises will always be fulfilled in His perfect time.
Bible Study Points and Reflections
- Exodus 5: Increased Burdens, Deeper Trust
- Key Verse: Exodus 5:22-23 — “Moses returned to the Lord and said, ‘Why, Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me?’”
- Reflection: Moses questions God’s plan when things get worse for Israel, but this moment of doubt leads to a deeper reliance on God.
- Application: Are there situations in your life where you need to trust God more, even when things seem to go wrong?
- Exodus 6: God’s Covenant and Reassurance
- Key Verse: Exodus 6:7 — “I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God.”
- Reflection: God reassures His people of His covenant, promising deliverance and relationship.
- Application: How does God’s faithfulness encourage you when you face discouragement?
- Exodus 7: The First Signs and the Plague of Blood
- Key Verse: Exodus 7:5 — “And the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord when I stretch out my hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out of it.”
- Reflection: The first signs of God’s power begin to challenge Pharaoh’s authority and reveal His supremacy.
- Application: How does God’s power give you confidence in His ability to overcome obstacles?
- Exodus 8: Plagues Reveal God’s Sovereignty
- Key Verse: Exodus 8:10 — “Moses replied, ‘It will be as you say, so that you may know there is no one like the Lord our God.’”
- Reflection: Each plague demonstrates God’s dominance over Egypt’s gods.
- Application: What areas in your life need to be surrendered to God’s authority and control?
Encouragement for the Week
The unfolding plagues and Pharaoh’s resistance remind us that God’s power is greater than any opposition we face. Though the journey may be filled with challenges, we can trust in God’s sovereignty and His ability to fulfill His promises.
Call to Action
- Journal Prompt: Write about a time when you doubted God’s plan but later saw His faithfulness. How can you use that experience to strengthen your trust today?
- Discussion: Share how God has worked through a difficult season in your life to show His power and faithfulness.
- Prayer: Lord, help me to trust in Your plans even when I face opposition or doubt. Remind me that Your power is greater than any obstacle. Strengthen my faith and guide me to surrender every part of my life to Your will. Amen.
