Moses has returned to Egypt. He has displayed the signs and wonders before the elders of Israel. They bow down and worship God. Full of confidence, Moses and Aaron march into Pharaoh’s throne room and declare the word of the Lord: “Let my people go.”
How does Pharaoh respond? “I don’t think so.” Instead, he increases the workload amongst the people, making their misery even worse. Eventually, the Israelites come to Moses, wanting to know why he would make their lives even worse. Moses then passes this onto God.
How does God respond? “I am the LORD.” Throughout this exchange, God makes a series of promises: I will… bring you out of slavery… redeem you… be your God… bring you to the promised land… and give it to you as a possession. In turn, the Israelites will know that the LORD is their God.
How do the Israelites respond? They do not listen to the word of the Lord or Moses because “of their discouragement and harsh labor.” This Sunday, we’ll explore what this passage teaches us about how oppression and evil destroy imagination and hope, and how the good news of God steps into this void to redeem and rescue.
Dinner Table Conversations:
Adult & Teen Table Talk:
- The Israelites couldn’t listen to Moses because of “discouragement and harsh labor.” What wears people down today so that hope feels hard to hold, and how does that affect our ability to hear God’s promises?
- God makes a series of promises: to bring out, to redeem, to be their God, to bring them to the land. Which one is hardest for you to trust right now, and which one brings you the most comfort?
Little Learners’ Table Talk:
- The people were too discouraged to listen. Who helps you remember that God is with you when you feel sad? What could you do to cheer up a friend who feels that way?
Sermon Title: I Am the LORD
Sermon Series: God With Us: Exodus
Sermon Passage: Exodus 6:2-9
Closing Scripture: Psalm 107:1-3
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