Exodus 17 – Water and War
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Water from the Rock (vv. 1–7): At Rephidim, the people murmured for water. God commanded Moses to strike the rock at Horeb, and water came forth, proving the Lord’s provision. The place was called Massah and Meribah (“temptation” and “strife”).
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Battle with Amalek (vv. 8–16): Amalek attacked Israel. While Joshua led the fight, Moses stood on the hill with the rod of God. As long as his hands were raised, Israel prevailed; when he grew weary, Aaron and Hur held up his hands. Israel gained victory, and the Lord promised Amalek would be utterly destroyed.
Exodus 18 – Jethro’s Counsel
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Visit of Jethro (vv. 1–12): Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, came with Zipporah and Moses’ sons. He rejoiced at God’s deliverance and offered sacrifices to the Lord.
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Advice on Leadership (vv. 13–27): Seeing Moses burdened with judging every case, Jethro advised him to appoint able men over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. This would lighten the load and provide order. Moses obeyed.
Exodus 19 – At Mount Sinai
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Arrival at Sinai (vv. 1–2): Israel camped before the mountain.
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Covenant Proposal (vv. 3–8): God declared Israel would be His peculiar treasure, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation—if they obeyed His voice. The people answered, “All that the Lord hath spoken we will do.”
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Preparation for God’s Presence (vv. 9–25): God told Moses to sanctify the people, wash their garments, and set boundaries around the mount. On the third day, the Lord descended in fire, smoke, thunder, lightning, and the sound of a trumpet. The people trembled as God’s majesty was revealed.
? Thematic Highlights
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Dependence on God’s provision (water from the rock).
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Victory comes through intercession and God’s power (Moses’ uplifted hands).
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God provides wisdom in leadership structure (Jethro’s counsel).
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Israel is called into covenant relationship with God (holy nation at Sinai).
