The text for this lesson is Exodus 13:17–15:21
Key Point
- As God saved the Hebrews through the water of the Red Sea, He saves us through the washing of water in Holy Baptism, conquering Satan, our greatest enemy.
- Law: The waves of this sinful world surge around me and drain me of life.
- Gospel: The waters of Holy Baptism wash me clean of sin and grant me life eternal.
Discussion Points
- Does freedom mean that we get to live and act in any way we choose? Why or why not?
- In Exodus 13:17–22, the Israelites begin their long journey out of Egypt and to the Promised Land. How did God lead them so that they would not wander aimlessly through the wilderness?
- Read Exodus 14:1–14. The Lord had freed His people by mighty acts of deliverance, especially in the final plague and the Passover meal, but Pharaoh changed his mind about letting his slaves go free. How did the Israelites respond—what did they say to Moses—when they saw Pharaoh’s strong army pursuing them? How did Moses try to console and strengthen them?
- Read Exodus 14:15–31. Discuss how God parted the waters in verses 21–25 and led His people through them. How did He thwart the efforts of the Egyptians to chase and capture the Israelites?
- Read Exodus 15:1–18. As you read through this hymn celebrating God’s salvation at the Red Sea, ask yourself these questions: Of whom does the hymn sing? Of what does the hymn sing? How does retelling the story of God’s saving deeds make it a great hymn?
- Read 1 Corinthians 10:1–4. How does Paul apply the exodus story, specifically the crossing of the Red Sea, to us as Christians?
- When God liberated His people from Egyptian bondage, they were not free to go and make a new life by themselves or for themselves. Instead, they were free to follow the God of grace and mercy! Read Romans 6:1–11. In our Baptism, from what have we been set free? How do we live in this freedom? Also see Romans 6:20–22.
