About This Book
Exodus, meaning 'departure,' chronicles Israel's dramatic liberation from Egyptian bondage and their formation as God's covenant nation. The book opens centuries after Genesis, with the Israelites now enslaved in Egypt under a pharaoh who fears their growing numbers. God raises up Moses, a Hebrew raised in Pharaoh's palace, to be His deliverer. After Moses encounters God in the burning bush, he returns to Egypt to demand Israel's release.
When Pharaoh refuses, God sends ten devastating plagues upon Egypt, each demonstrating His supremacy over Egyptian gods. The final plague, the death of the firstborn, leads to the establishment of Passover and Israel's release. God miraculously parts the Red Sea, allowing Israel to escape while destroying Pharaoh's pursuing army. In the wilderness, God provides manna, quail, and water, revealing His faithfulness despite the people's constant complaining.
At Mount Sinai, God establishes His covenant with Israel, giving Moses the Ten Commandments and extensive laws governing worship, morality, and civil life. The people agree to obey God's commands. God instructs Moses to build the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where His presence will dwell among His people. The book concludes with the completion of the Tabernacle and God's glory filling it.
Exodus reveals God as the supreme Redeemer who saves His people, establishes His holy standards, and dwells among those He has called to be His treasured possession.