Preach the Word Podcast

Leviticus 4,5 "The Ugly Truth"

eviticus 4 introduces the sin offering and Leviticus 5 introduces the trespass (guilt) offering.

The emphasis shifts from:
devotion
worship
fellowship

to:
guilt
cleansing
forgiveness
restoration

The lesson is simple:
Sin is never ignored by God, minimized by God, or excused by God.
It must be confessed, atoned for, and forsaken.

In our last message, we learned that worship is the life we live before God every day—our devotion, our dependence, and our delight. But even those who love God still struggle with sin. Leviticus 4–5 reminds us that fellowship with God can be hindered when sin enters our lives. God does not ignore sin, excuse sin, or overlook sin. Because He is holy, sin must be dealt with. These chapters teach us that guilt is real, sin is serious, and forgiveness is only possible through the sacrifice God provides.

Introduction
A. Reality
Sin is not merely a mistake or weakness—it is a reality in every human life.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23

B. Responsibility
God holds people accountable for their sin, whether intentional or unintentional.
“If a soul shall sin through ignorance...” — Leviticus 4:2

C. Restoration
God provides a way for sin to be forgiven and fellowship to be restored.
“...and it shall be forgiven him.” — Leviticus 4:20

Because God is holy and man is sinful, guilt cannot simply be ignored. Leviticus 4–5 teaches us that sin must be recognized, confessed, and atoned for. We see this through conviction, confession, and cleansing.

Outline
I. Conviction (Leviticus 4)
Sin must first be recognized before it can be forgiven.

Sin Is Specific
“If a soul shall sin through ignorance...” — Leviticus 4:2

God names specific sins and specific offenders:
- priest
- congregation
- ruler
- common person
No one is exempt from accountability.

Sin Brings Guilt
“...he is guilty.” — Leviticus 4:13
Guilt is not merely a feeling.
It is a condition before God.

Sin Requires a Substitute
“And he shall lay his hand upon the bullock's head...” — Leviticus 4:4
Again we see substitution.
The innocent dies for the guilty.
Christ Connection
“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin...” — 2 Corinthians 5:21

II. Confession (Leviticus 5:1–6)
Once guilt is recognized, it must be acknowledged before God.

Honest Admission
“When he shall be guilty in one of these things, that he shall confess...” — Leviticus 5:5
God's answer is not denial. God's answer is confession.

Personal Responsibility
The offender could not blame:
- circumstances
- upbringing
- others

The sin had to be owned.
“I acknowledged my sin unto thee...” — Psalm 32:5

Genuine Repentance
Confession involves agreement with God about our sin.
“If we confess our sins...” — 1 John 1:9

III. Cleansing (Leviticus 5:6–19)
God not only exposes sin; He provides forgiveness.

Atonement Is Provided
“And the priest shall make an atonement for him...” — Leviticus 5:10

Forgiveness comes through God's provision.Restitution Is Required

The trespass offering teaches that sin often affects others.
“Then he shall make amends...” — Leviticus 5:16

True repentance seeks restoration where possible.
Forgiveness Is Promised

Repeated throughout these chapters:
“...and it shall be forgiven him.” — Leviticus 4:20, 26, 31, 35; 5:10

God delights in forgiving those who come His way.
Christ Connection
Jesus became:
- our sin offering
- our trespass offering

“Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree...” — 1 Peter 2:24

Conclusion
Leviticus 4–5 reminds us that sin is never vague, harmless, or insignificant. It brings guilt, damages fellowship, and separates people from God. Yet God, in His mercy, provided a sacrifice so sinners could be forgiven and restored. Today we look not to the blood of bulls and goats, but to Jesus Christ, the perfect sacrifice for sin. When conviction leads to confession, God provides cleansing. That is the way of holiness.

 

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

Leviticus 2,3 "A Life Given in Worship"

A Life Given in Worship
Text: Leviticus 2–3

Introduction:

Leviticus opens up with the three Savor offerings: Burnt Offering: Chapter 1; Meal Offering: Chapter 2; Peace Offering: Chapter 3

A wonderful application we get from this study, is that  worship is something we should do every day. Our Worship should not only be constant, but a way of life. There are three words we will look at that have to do with a life given to worship: devotion, dependence, and delight. Worship is not just something we should do on Sundays, but a daily walk of fellowship with God. The theme for our study is "The Way of Holiness". Living a Holy life before God includes a life of Worship.

In our last message, we saw that the way of holiness begins with sacrifice. Leviticus 1 taught us that sinful people cannot approach a holy God without atonement, substitution, and surrender.

But now in Leviticus 2–3, the focus begins to shift from sacrifice alone to a life of worship and fellowship with God. The Lord did not redeem Israel simply to spare them from judgment—He redeemed them so they could walk with Him daily. That is the heart behind “The Way of Holiness.”

Holiness is not merely avoiding sin; it is living a life devoted unto God and enjoying communion with Him. The grain offering and peace offering remind us that worship is not just about death at the altar—it is about daily devotion, dependence upon God, and delight in His presence.

By way of introduction: let's look at three things:

A. Redemption
God did not bring Israel out of Egypt just to free them from slavery — He brought them out so they could belong to Him. In the same way, salvation is not simply about escaping judgment; it is about being brought near to God and living for Him. Many people want rescue without relationship, but redemption changes who we belong to and how we live.
“I am the LORD your God, which have brought you out of the land of Egypt...” — Leviticus 11:45

Our Redemption is the key to our lifestyle. We have been changed, redeemed. Given a new heart. This is not a brand, or a trend, this is a new life. (Lipstick on a pig)

B. Relationship
God desired more than outward obedience from His people — He desired fellowship with them. The tabernacle was a reminder that God wanted to dwell among His people daily. Christianity is not merely a system of rules or church attendance; it is walking with God, talking with Him, depending upon Him, and enjoying His presence in everyday life.
“And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.” — Exodus 25:8

God does not want us to compartmentalize. He wants us to live for Him. (Organic Safety illustration)

C. Reverence
Because God is holy, our lives should reflect reverence, worship, and obedience. Holiness is not perfection, but it is living with an awareness that we belong to God. The way we speak, think, treat others, work, worship, and live should all be shaped by the reality of His presence in our lives.
“Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy.” — Leviticus 19:2

Reverence is different that Reference. 

Reverence for God is more than simply acknowledging that He exists. A reverent life recognizes Him as Lord, seeks to obey His Word, repents when sin is revealed, fears Him, and delights in His presence. Many people reference God with their lips, but reverence is demonstrated by a life that is surrendered to Him and shaped by His will.

Transition
Because Israel had been redeemed into relationship with a holy God, their lives were now to be marked by reverence and worship. In Leviticus 2–3, we see a life given in worship through dedication, dependence, and delight in God.

I. Dedication
(Leviticus 2)
The grain offering pictures a life devoted and yielded to God in everyday worship.

The offering was made from fine flour, showing purity and consistency in daily life.
“...his offering shall be of fine flour...” — Leviticus 2:1

The grain offering points us to the person of Jesus Christ. J. Vernon McGee said, “God's goal for man is fulfilled in Jesus.” Every person who has ever lived has failed to perfectly obey God.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23

But Jesus never failed. His life was perfectly pure, perfectly balanced, and perfectly pleasing unto the Father.
“This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” — Matthew 3:17

The worshiper brought the fruit of his labor unto the Lord in devotion and gratitude.
“And when any will offer a meat offering unto the LORD...” — Leviticus 2:1

The grain offering reminds us that Christ was completely consecrated to the Father's will.
“For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” — John 6:38

Because Christ gave Himself fully to the Father, believers are called to present themselves unto God as well.
“Present your bodies a living sacrifice...” — Romans 12:1

The offering was called “a sweet savour unto the LORD,” showing that sincere worship pleases God.
“...an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.” — Leviticus 2:2

Jesus lived a life that pleased God perfectly, and through Him our worship is accepted before the Father.
“...he hath made us accepted in the beloved.” — Ephesians 1:6

Just as we need Grace to be Saved, we need Grace for daily living.  Phil 4:13 (what it means) We can live a life that pleases God and stay I Fellowship because of and through Jesus. This is a key part of our Worship to God. To have a life given to Worship, we must live a consecrated and devoted life to the Father with Jesus as our example. (Being filled with the Holy Spirit)

II. Dependence
(Leviticus 2)
The oil, salt, and offering itself remind the worshiper that everything comes from God and must be offered back to Him.
The oil pictures God's enabling power and the need for His presence in worship.
“...and he shall pour oil upon it...” — Leviticus 2:1

Even Jesus ministered in dependence upon the Spirit.
“God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power...” — Acts 10:38

The salt reminds Israel of God's covenant faithfulness and enduring relationship with His people.
“...with all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt.” — Leviticus 2:13

God is faithful to every promise He makes.
“Great is thy faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:23

The absence of leaven teaches that worship must be sincere, holy, and separated from corruption.
“No meat offering... shall be made with leaven...” — Leviticus 2:11
Leaven often pictures sin and corruption.
“Purge out therefore the old leaven...” — 1 Corinthians 5:7

Honey was also kept out of(Natural sweetener) 

The grain offering also passed through the fire.
“And if thy oblation be a meat offering baken in the oven...” — Leviticus 2:4

Fire pictures testing and proving. Christ was tested in every way, yet remained without sin.
“...yet without sin.” — Hebrews 4:15

The fire revealed His perfection; it did not destroy it.

Through Christ; being filled with the Spirit. We have all we need to live a consecrated life. We must depend on God to continue in that.
(Grace, forgiveness, example, power, etc. etc.)

III. Delight
(Leviticus 3)
The peace offering celebrates fellowship, communion, and joy in the presence of God.

The peace offering pictured restored fellowship between God and the worshiper.
“And if his oblation be a sacrifice of peace offering...” — Leviticus 3:1

This points directly to Jesus Christ.
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:1

Because of Christ, we no longer stand under condemnation. We have peace with the Father.

Portions of the offering were shared, symbolizing communion and relationship.
“And Aaron's sons shall burn it on the altar...” — Leviticus 3:5

Part belonged to God, part to the priests, and part to the worshiper. The picture is fellowship.
“...truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” — 1 John 1:3

Fellowship with God rests upon the redemption accomplished by Christ.
The offering was given with thanksgiving and joy because peace had been established.
“...it is an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.” — Leviticus 3:5

John declared:
“Behold the Lamb of God...” — John 1:36
Isaiah foretold:
“He was wounded for our transgressions...” — Isaiah 53:5

Without Christ there is judgment.
“Hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb.” — Revelation 6:16–17
But because of Christ's blood and our faith in Him, we can rejoice in peace, fellowship, and communion with God.

Conclusion
A life given in worship is marked by dedication to God, dependence upon God, and delight in fellowship with God. The grain offering reminds us that Jesus lived the perfect life we could never live and was fully consecrated to the Father. The peace offering reminds us that through His sacrifice we now have peace and fellowship with God. Because of who Christ is and what Christ has done, worship is no longer merely something we do—it becomes the life we live before God every day.
We learn from Leviticus that worship is the life we live before God every day — our devotion, our dependence, and our delight. True holiness is not merely found at the altar in moments of sacrifice, but in a daily walk of fellowship with the Lord. That is the way of holiness.

 

THANK YOU

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

Psalm 51 "How to Come Back like David"

The podcast will be now released on Saturdays. Enjoy this bonus episode from Psalm 51.

 

Title:  How to Come back like David

Text: Psalm 51

Theme: How David, a man after God’s own heart, recovered after committing a great sin.

 

 

When something gets out of place, you don’t ignore it.. You don’t say, “Well maybe it’ll fix itself eventually.” No — you deal with it immediately. Because the longer it stays out of place, the worse the damage gets.That’s true physically. But it’s also true spiritually. Psalm 51 is about a believer whose life got out of place.

 

Read Psalm 51:1-3

 

It has been said, that when we read the story of David that we see that he was a great sinner, but we also see that David was a great repenter.  David is known in the Bible for his comebacks. Psalm 51 covers what may be his greatest comeback of all. 

 

"Davids Great Comeback"

 

Introduction: Psalm 51 is dealing with sin in the life of the Believer... Psalm 51:5-19

 

(When we read Psalm 51...)

 

A. Ability to Sin: Psalm 51:5; "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me."

 

- There is a reality that as Christians, we can still sin. A Christian cannot lose Salvation because of sin, but we can lose our Fellowship with God, each other, and the Ability to grow.

 

- The Romans 7 Tongue Twister "The things I want to do are things I don't want to do. The Things I don't want to do are the things I do."; "O Wretched man (exhausted man) that I am" "There is therefore no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus..."

 

 

B. The Affect of Sin v. 6 "Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom."

 

- David realizes the issue was deeper than one moment with Bathsheba. The problem started in the heart long before it showed up outwardly. God desires truth in the inward parts.

 

- Sin has a way of exposing the inward person. God wasn’t just after David’s actions — God wanted David’s heart.

 

- Jesus said, out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh) God is not interested in the surface… He wants truth on the inside. 

 

- (Illustration) It is amazing how so many Christians, can provoke, prod, and play around with sin… and the moment: someone falls we are quick to Judge and hold on to grudges;  we are quick to want to give up; we are quick to say things like “ I don’t know what happened”; or "things happen for a reason"

 

- Difference between Sampson & Lot and Joseph and Job (UFC Example... "Idk what happened it happened so fast" 

 

- Sin has consequences...

 

C. The Acknowledgment of Sin v.7-19

- (Tell the story very briefly) 

- David committed adultery, tried to cover it up, and before it was over, Uriah was dead because of David’s choices

- God sent Nathan to speak to David about his sin (2 Samuel 12:1-7) 

- Nathan told David about a rich man who had many flocks and herds, but took a poor man’s only little lamb to prepare a meal for a traveler. David became angry at the rich man, not realizing Nathan was describing David’s own sin.

- The lamb of the story was Bathsheba. David was quick to judge someone whom he thought had stolen a lamb, but he was guilty of stealing Bathsheba.  David was quick to judge someone who he thought had killed an animal, but he was guilty of killing Uriah. 

- When we are backslidden, we tend to judge people for less sin than we have in our own lives. 

- Nathan looked at David and said … “Thou art the man”. The Man of God gave the Word of God which brought Conviction to the heart of David. “Thou art the man!”

 

This is why so many people love Psalm 51, and it's key to David's comeback. Accountability vs ownership (This is the best Biblical story on it). David was ready to hold the man who stole the lamb accountable, then he realized it was him which led him to take ownership. David acknowledges his sin and wants nothing more than to be back in Fellowship with God.

 

Realization of sin = Conviction. The Repentance (The Change of Mind) 

 

 

v.7 — David admits he is unclean and needs God to wash him

“Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean…”

v.8 — David admits his sin has broken him emotionally and spiritually

“Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.”

v.9–12 — David admits his heart is wrong and he needs restoration and fellowship with God

“Create in me a clean heart, O God… Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation…”

v.13–17 — David wants to get right with God and be useful again

He wants to teach others, praise God again, and offer God a broken and repentant heart instead of empty sacrifice.

 

This is a man who wants to get back into fellowship with the Father but has fallen flat on his face.

 

This is how a man after God's own heart acknowledges his sin and comes back to God.

 

Outline: How to come back like DavidPsalm 51:1-4

 

I. Rely (Confidence) v.1

- David trusted in God (according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies)

- David believed God was who He said He was. David believed God would do what he said he would do!

- Want to come back like David? Put Confidence in God. (1 John 1:9)

- A lot of people have a lot of opinions about the things of God. Trust = intimacy. God wants you to Trust Him

- Illustration: The difference between Conviction and Shame

 

II. Repent (Confession) v. 3,4

(For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.)

- Did David sin against Bathsheba? Uriah? His Family? His Kingdom? (Yes!)

- But above all, David sinned against God. (A man after God’s own heart. He wanted to make things right with God first… the rest will follow, and unfortunately sometimes others don’t forgive)

- Want to come back like David? There was no excuse, no alibi, and no pointing fingers… David takes ownership for his sin. Take ownership for your sin.

 

Psalm 139:23,24

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

 

(Braces Brackett)

 

 

III. Rest (Pardon, Forgiveness, Cleansing) v. 2

(Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.)

- V. 7, 10 speak of this also

- David was pardoned because He went to God

- Want to come back like David? Ask God for forgiveness,

- Illustration of how we try to move on (counselling, time, acts of service, etc.) Those are all good, but above all… we need the forgiveness of God.

 

 

Conclusion:

- We looked at the Ability, the Aftermath and the Anguish of sin in the life of a believer.

- We learn how David had Assurance that God was longsuffering and forgiving, Admitted and took ownership of his sin, and was Absolved and put back into Fellowship with God. 

 

THANK YOU

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

 

Leviticus 1 "The Way Begins with Sacrifice"

Title: "The Way Begins with Sacrifice"
Text: Leviticus

We now come to the book of Leviticus. So far we have covered the four Great events of Genesis (The Creation, The Fall, the Flood, and the Tower of Babel.) We then looked at the four important people of Genesis (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph). We then saw Israel triumphantly delivered out of Egypts bondage through the blood of the Passover Lamb. We learned about the Red Sea parting, the law, and the Tabernacle.  “And the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.” — Exodus 40:34. Leviticus is a marvelous study that will answer the question of how a sinful people can not only approach, but also live for a Holy God.

Leviticus:
- 3rd book of the Bible (3 of 5 Books of Moses)
- 27 chapters and 859 verses

The title of this season is “The Way of Holiness.” The word Holiness means to be set apart unto God—to belong to Him and reflect His character.  God's presence, purity, and perfection are all connected to His Holiness. Isaiah spoke of “The way of holiness,” in Isaiah 35. 
"And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein." - Isaiah 35:8

What is the Way of Holiness? The way of Holiness is a path where God’s redeemed people walk with Him. This is what Leviticus is about. God not only rescues Israel from Egypt; He is teaches them how to live.  1 Peter 1:16 (KJV): "Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy".

Sinful people cannot approach God without Sacrifice. Therefore, this is where Leviticus starts. The title of the message is "The Way Begins with Sacrifice". Remember, Holiness always starts with us coming to God His way. 

 

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

Exodus 1-140 "The Wonderful Book of Deliverance"

Title: The Wonderful Book of Deliverance
Text:  Exodus

Exodus – “A departure” or “a way out”
Second Book of the Bible, second book of the Pentateuch (1st five books, means 5 books. They are the books of Moses)
Exodus is literally the sequel to Genesis. Nothing is started and nothing is finished.
Genesis covers a time period of 2,315 or so years. Exodus covers a time period of 216 years (focus is really on 94 of those years.

There is a lapse of time between Genesis and Exodus, however it is a continuation of the story of Genesis. 
Genesis 15:13 13And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years;

Exodus 12:40 40Now the sojourning of the children of Israel, who dwelt in Egypt, was four hundred and thirty years.

There is a lapse in time of at least 3 ½ centuries between the two books.
70 people went into Egypt, now they are numbered at over 2 million
Joseph died, there was a new Pharaoh, and the people were enslaved

Theme: Redemption through the Blood

Hebrews 11:23-29 23By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. 24By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; 25Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; 26Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. 27By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. 28Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. 29By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

Israel is in Bondage 1-11
The Passover 12
The Exodus of Israel 13-19
The Law is given 20
The Tabernacle is built in 35-40

Theme: Redemption through the Blood

Key Verse: Exodus 12:13 13And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.

Read Title: “The Wonderful Book of Deliverance” to introduce this book we are going to focus on the theme and key verse.
Type – “A divinely appointed illustration of some scriptural truth.”
Derived from Greek word “tupos” – impression, stamp, pattern, or form
“A type must never be used to teach a doctrine, but only to illustrate a doctrine elsewhere explicitly taught.” – Dr. J. Edwin Hartill
- Egypt is a type of the World
- Pharaoh is a type of Satan
-  Israel is a type of the total depravity of man and our need for a Savior
- The Passover is a type of Jesus Christ

“What redeemed Israel from the house of bondage was the blood of the Passover lamb. Israel sheltered behind that blood, feasted on the slain lamb, and trusted God for salvation full and free. Suddenly, the people were set free from bondage and death. Pharoah’s power was broken, and Egypt lay in ruins under the judgment of God. The whole story is a studied Old Testament type of our redemption by the blood of Jesus, the Passover Lamb.” – Dr. John Phillips

The Passover 
To deliver the children of Israel from bondage in Egypt
The 10th and final plague
Water turned to blood
Frogs infested the land
Lice throughout the land
Grievous swarm of flies
Cattle of the Egyptians died, but the Israelites cattle lived
Boils to man and beast
Hail
Locust
Darkness
The Firstborn slain

Psalm 78:49-51 King James Version (KJV)
49 He cast upon them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, and indignation, and trouble, by sending evil angels among them.50 He made a way to his anger; he spared not their soul from death, but gave their life over to the pestilence;51 And smote all the firstborn in Egypt; the chief of their strength in the tabernacles of Ham:

Outline: 
I. The Captivity (Egypt a type of the world)
Exodus 2:23 23And it came to pass in process of time, that the king of Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.
They were in slavery – in bondage - They could barely bear their own burdens
Sin has this world in bondage – The sin problem must be dealt with.

II. The Captor (Pharaoh is a type of Satan)
The Great Red Dragon – Revelation 12:3,4
Revelation 12:3-4 3And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. 4And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.
“Great”
Matthew 4:8-9 8Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
(Immense Power)
He is the prince and power of the air, here in this verse he offers the Lord Jesus the nations if He will fall down and worship him. 

“Red”
John 8:44 44Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
(Does not care about human life)
We see the spirit of this today with abortion
6 million jews and 11 million others

Over 61 million babies murdered 

Dragon
His Viciousness.

Seven Heads
Ezekiel 28:12 12Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty.
(he was created perfect in beauty) 

Ten Horns & Seven Crowns upon his heads
This represents the revived Roman Empire that will be under Satan’s rule during the Great Tribulation

His tail 
Revelation 12:4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth:
Drew (Pulled) they were persuaded to go with him
Isaiah 14:12-15 12How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 13For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 14I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. 15Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

The Woman and the Child
Why does he hate this child so much?
Genesis 3:15 15And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

Pharaoh:
Ruler of Egypt, very powerful. (remember, Egypt is a type of the world and Pharaoh ruled this land) Pharaoh made slaves out of the children of Israel just like this world is enslaved by Satan.
No value for human life, very viscous, and hatred for the Jew – Exodus 1:16 16And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live.”. Absolutely no value for human life whatsoever, viciously murder off ale babies as they were born. 
Wanting to destroy the man child
This is one of many times satan tied cutting off the line leading to Jesus Christ. Notice the hatred the Red Dragon had in that scripture for the Woman and her Child. This woman represents the nation Israel and the Child (Jesus Christ)
Why does he hate this child so much?
Genesis 3:15 15And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

The Woman is Israel
Revelation 12:1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: 2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.
Genesis 37:9 9And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it his brethren, and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more; and, behold, the sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me. And he told it to his father, and to his brethren: and his father rebuked him, and said unto him, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth?

Question 1: Who is the man child that is to rule the nations with a Rod of Iron?
The Lord Jesus Christ
When Jesus Christ comes back the second time it will be to Judge. It will be a Theocracy. He is not going to come like He did the fist time. So many people today want peace, but they want it on there terms. “We want peace – now do as we say or else!” Well, when Jesus Christ comes back He will literally break this world with a Rod of iron. 
The Day of the Lord= The Second Coming of Jesus Christ when He comes at the battle of Armageddon to defeat the nations and will set up His Millennial reign.
During the Millennial reign,  He will do it with a Rod of Iron. This is only one phase of His eternal reign, because at the end of the 1,000 years satan will be loosed and there will be the battle of Gog and Magog. But please note, Jesus reign will continue for all of eternity.
Pharaoh is no doubt a type of Satan: His power, lack of value for human life, hatred for the nation Israel and trying to prevent Moses from being born who is also a type of Christ

III. The Corruption (Total Depravity of Man)
Exodus 2:23 23And it came to pass in process of time, that the king of Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.

Israel is a type of man’s need for Salvation. We are totally depraved.
Romans 3:12 - They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.
Romans 5:12 - Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

Genesis 3:6 - And when the woman saw that the tree [was] good for food, and that it [was] pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make [one] wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
Adam failed – Revelation 5:1:1-4
Revelation 5:1-5 1And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. 2And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? 3And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. 4And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon. 5And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” - Romans 3:23
 (illustration of good people)

Jonas Salk(polio) Winston Churchill, FDR, George Patton, Douglas Macarthur, Harry S. Truman fought the evil Nazi Germany and their Allies (eliminate anyone deemed to be "defective")
Some more good people, Abraham Lincoldn, Chris Kyle, Fred Rogers (good people)
Adolph Hitler, Charles Manson, Jeffrey Dahmer, Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy, Ed Kemper
There were good people, there were awful disgusting people, but the Bible tells us, we are all the sons of Adam, and we have ALL fallen short.
Illustration of all mankind falling short
We are all sinners, we need to be reminded that we are unworthy!
A lot of arrogant Christians today (arrogant preachers)
Israel got the leader they wanted (Saul) just like a lot of Churches are getting the leader’s they want instead of the ones they need

8 Dispensations
Dispensation – A period of time in which God is working out a particular aspect of His will. (8)
Innocence – (Adam and Eve)
Conscience (Flood)
Human Government
Promise (Egyption bondage)
Law (Calvary)
Grace (Church age)
Tribulation
Millennium (Kingdom)
What does each dispensation have in common?
They end in man’s failure and God’s Judgment!

The Cure
Exodus – “The way out”
“To set forth the great truth of the whole Bible, the deliverance of man from the bondage and slavery to sin and the world.”  - Dr. Tom Wallace, Digest of the Old Testament.

“In Exodus it is made crystal clear that redemption rests upon the shedding of the blood of the Paschal lamb. Each individual personally must shelter behind the blood. The lamb must be without spot or blemish. The date of it’s death was set by divine decree.”  - Dr. John Philips, Exploring the Scriptures

All the first born were slain
Calvary was a dark place

Exodus 12:13 13And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt
Romans 5:6-9 6For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

Exodus 33:21-23 "In the Cleft of the Rock"

Title: “In the Cleft of the Rock”

Text:  Exodus 33:21-23

Theme: The believer’s joy and Security

 

Exodus 33:21-23 21And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock: 22And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by: 23And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.

 

Introduction: 

• Who: Moses

 

• What: The journey to the promised land is resumed. (The joy and security of the believer)

 

• Where: Sinai

 

• When: 1446 B.C

(Timeline of Events)

- The 10 commandments are given

- The Law is given

- The Tabernacle instructions given

- The Golden Calf: Moses goes up to Mt. Sinai to commune with God, Israel fashions a golden calf and there is Disciplinary Judgment. There is confession and intercession.

- (Chapter 33) God commands Moses to resume the journey to the promised land.

 

Exodus 33:1 1And the LORD said unto Moses, Depart, and go up hence, thou and the people which thou hast brought up out of the land of Egypt, unto the land which I sware unto Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, Unto thy seed will I give it:

 

• Why: Deliver Israel out of the Wilderness

- Wilderness: A time of testing and trials

- Jesus; Elijah; Abraham; Jacob; David. All had a wilderness experience.

- Canaan: Is a type of rest. It is not God’s Will we stay in the wilderness. He wants us to enter that joy and rest here on earth.

o Reactions: Exodus 33:1-11

 

God commands Moses to leave the wilderness and resume. He promises Him that He will send an Angel with them and that He will drive out their enemies from within the land.

 

They are still wearing ornaments of the heathen gods and God tells them to remove them or they are going to be consumed. (idolatry and the dangers of it)

 

Moses pitches the tabernacle outside of the camp (still under construction) and enters. This is where the cloudy pillar fills the tabernacle and Moses talks with God. Like friends speak to each other face to face, God spoke to Moses .

 

• How: Moses prays and God answers

 

It is not God’s Will for us to stay in the Wilderness. He wants us to enter Canaan and rest. He wants us to go to the next level in our Christian walk.

 

Moses knows that he needs God’s help on their journey to Canaan.

 

A. A Desire to know God v.12-15

- (Ex. 33:6 “stripped themselves of their ornaments)

- Phil 3:10 “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;”

- The desire to know God more is evidence that He is the Lord of our life and that there is no idolatry.

 

B. A Desire to live for God v.16,17

- Moses wants to be peculiar. Not to be strange (weird) but to stand out because God is leading them. He does not want them to wander off on their own, he desires God to lead them and because of God’s leadership and constant communion, they will stand out from all other nations.

- Religion will stand out; legalism will stand out; extremist (you name it) but why do you stand out? We should be a peculiar people because we are people for God. STANDARDS ARE WORTHLESS IF WE ARE BREAKING GOD’S LAW AT THE SAME TIME.

- Notice what God says in v.17 “for thou hast found Grace in my sight” 

 

C. A Desire to see God v.18-20

- Moses is becoming very intimate with God and is now requesting to see God’s glory

- Moses could not see God face to face but God is going to grant His request. The Glory mentioned is a representation of God.

- TO BEHOLD THE GLORY OF GOD

- Revelation 21:22-23 22And I saw no temple therein: for the LORD God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 23And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

- The request of Moses is the evidence of an intimate relationship with God. This is a Christian entering into Canaan. The place of Joy and Peace (Maturity)

- “’ And he said I beseech thee, show me thy glory’ Pondering this verse next in the light of its immediate context, we are shown what is the sure product of intimate fellowship with God. The great Jehovah had condescended to draw very near to the one who had separated himself from evil, for we are told, "the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend" (v. 11). And what was the consequence of this upon Moses? Not only did he have freedom in supplicating His grace, but there was a holy longing to know more of Himself. Such is ever the outflow of real and close communion with God: the more we know of Him, the more we desire to know. The closer God deigns to draw near to His people, the more constrained are they to cry, - Pink, Arthur W.. Gleanings in Exodus

- v. 19 – (I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee) This is a confirmation of his original call. (I am that I am) Exodus 3:15-15.  (be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy) There were those who are willing to follow and those who are still in rebellion. Moses is the mediator. There are those who God will be gracious to and give us what we need to get to the next step, and there are those who are in rebellion that He is merciful to.

- V.20 – We cannot see God’s face and live

- Do you want the immature wilderness Christian experience or the Mature Canaan experience (draw comparison)

 

- Key verses: 

Exodus 33:21-23 21And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock: 22And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by: 23And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.

 

“This is most blessed. In order for sinful man to be able clearly to contemplate the Divine perfections of an infinitely righteous, holy God, it is necessary that he should be put into a place of security and peace. This God has, in His infinite condescension and grace, provided for us.” 

-Pink, Arthur W.. Gleanings in Exodus  

 

Outline: “In the Cleft of the Rock” Exodus 33:21-23

Cleft of the Rock define – “ a space or opening made by or as if by splitting” (Webster)

Cleft of the Rock is a Christian who has entered into that rest, that joy and peace that only God can give. They want to know God and are learning more of Him, they want to live for God and are being set apart, they want to experience God’s glory and are in communion with Him. They have been placed in the cleft of the rock and have an experience like no other.

 

“A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,

A wonderful Savior to me;

He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock,

Where rivers of pleasure I see.

He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock,

That shadows a dry, thirsty land;

He hideth my life in the depths of His love,

And covers me there with His hand.” 

– Fanny Crosby

 

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

Exodus 25-40 "God's Dwelling Place"

Exodus 25–40
“God’s Dwelling Place”
Text: Exodus 25–40

Introduction:

Exodus 25–40 shifts the focus of the book.Up to this point, God has delivered His people out of Egypt, brought them through the wilderness, and given them His law at Sinai. The question now is not just how they should live, but how a holy God can live among sinful people.

God gives instructions for the tabernacle—a dwelling place in the middle of the camp. Every detail matters. Nothing is random. This is God showing sinful people how to approach Him.

And right in the middle of it, the people fail. Exodus 32—the golden calf. While God is revealing how He is to be worshiped, the people create a god of their own.

That’s the tension of this entire section: God desires to dwell with His people, but their sin threatens that relationship.
And yet, God does not abandon His plan. By the end of Exodus, the tabernacle is finished… and the glory of the LORD fills it.

The message is simple:
God will dwell with His people, but only through His way.

The Tabernacle — Christ at the Center
A. The Outer Court — Where Sin is Dealt With

- The Gate — The Only Way In. John 10:9 (KJV) “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved…” There was one entrance into the tabernacle. Not many. One. Jesus says the same thing about salvation—He is the door.

-The Brazen Altar — The Sacrifice. 1 Corinthians 15:3 (KJV) “…Christ died for our sins…”The first thing you encountered was the altar. Blood. No one approached God without sacrifice. This points directly to the cross—Jesus, the Lamb of God.

-The Laver — The Cleansing
Ephesians 5:26 (KJV) “…washing of water by the word,” After sacrifice came washing. Not salvation again—but daily cleansing. God’s Word washes the believer. You cannot come to God without sacrifice and cleansing.

B. The Holy Place — Where Fellowship is Maintained
- The Lampstand — The Light. John 8:12 (KJV) “I am the light of the world…” There were no windows in the tabernacle. This was the only light. Without Christ, everything is darkness.

-The Table of Shewbread — The Provision
John 6:35 (KJV) “I am the bread of life…” Twelve loaves, always present. God providing for His people. Christ sustains the believer daily.

- The Altar of Incense — The Intercession. Hebrews 7:25 (KJV) “…he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” The incense rose continually before God. A picture of prayer. Jesus is our intercessor—He is praying for us.This is where relationship with God is lived out daily.

C. The Most Holy Place — Where God’s Presence Dwells
- The Veil — The Barrier. Hebrews 10:20 (KJV) “…the veil, that is to say, his flesh;” The veil separated man from God. Sin created distance. Matthew 27:51 (KJV) “…the veil of the temple was rent…” When Christ died, the veil was torn. Access was opened.

-The Ark of the Covenant — The Presence. Colossians 2:9 (KJV) “For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.”
The Ark represented God’s throne. Now, the fullness of God dwells in Christ.

-The Mercy Seat — The Atonement. Romans 3:25 (KJV) “…a propitiation through faith in his blood…”
The blood was applied to the mercy seat. Judgment was covered.. Wrath was satisfied. This is where God is—but access was limited until Christ.

Outline: “God’s Dwelling Place”
I. Cleansing (Outer Court — Sin is Dealt With)
- Sin must be confessed, not ignored
- Be honest with God about your sin. Don’t carry what He calls you to confess.
- Forgiveness comes through sacrifice, not effort. Stop trying to earn what Christ has already finished. Cleansing is the starting point, not the finish line
- Don’t stay stuck in guilt—move forward and walk with God.

1 John 1:9 (KJV)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

II. Communion (Holy Place — Relationship is Practiced)
- God desires daily fellowship. Spend time with Him daily in His Word and in prayer. Spiritual life must be maintained intentionally.
- Feed your soul, stay grounded in truth, and stay in prayer. Closeness with God grows through consistency
- Don’t chase feelings—be faithful, and depth will come.

John 15:4 (KJV)
“Abide in me, and I in you…”

III. Closeness (Most Holy Place — God’s Presence is Experienced)
- Access to God is now open through Christ
- Come boldly—don’t hold back in prayer. God’s presence is personal, not distant
- Walk with Him throughout your day, not just at set times. Closeness changes how we live
- If you’re near God, it will show in your life.

Hebrews 10:22 (KJV)
“Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith…”

 

 

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

Exodus 24 "Access by Blood"

Title: "Access by Blood"
Text: Exodus 24

Introduction
Exodus 24 brings everything to a head.God has delivered His people, brought them to Sinai, and given them His law. Now the question is not just how they should live—but how a holy God can live among a sinful people.This chapter answers that.

The covenant is not just spoken—it is confirmed. The people agree to obey, sacrifices are made, and blood is applied. Then God allows leaders of Israel to come near and experience His presence.

The message is clear: Access to God is possible—but it is never casual. It is always through blood.

 

Outline: "Access by Blood"
I. Receive
Don’t just hear God’s Word—submit to it.
Exodus 24:3 — “All the words which the LORD hath said will we do.”
James 1:22 — “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only…”

God’s standard hasn’t changed. We don’t define truth—God does.
- Don’t pick and choose what you obey
- Don’t just agree with truth—live it

II. Rely
Our access to God is not earned—it is provided.
Exodus 24:8 — “Behold the blood of the covenant…”
Hebrews 9:22 — “Without shedding of blood is no remission.”

What Exodus points to is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
- Stop trusting your performance to make you right with God
- When you fail, don’t run from God—run to Him through Christ. Rest in what has already been finished

III. Reverence
We have access—but we do not treat God lightly.
Exodus 24:9–10 — They saw God and stood in His presence

- God is still holy. Worship is still serious.
- Approach God with humility, not casualness
- Take your time with Him—don’t rush His presence
- Let your life reflect that you know who you are dealing with

Conclusion:
They agreed to obey…They were covered by blood…And they were brought near.

Access to God is real. But it was never cheap. It was bought with blood.

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

 

Exodus 20-23 "Missing the Mark"

Title: Missing the Mark
Text: Exodus 20–23

Introduction

The story so far. Israel is in bondage in Egypt. They cry out for deliverance and God sends them Moses. Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh and exposes the false gods of Egypt as well as the hardened heart of Pharaoh who refuses to let the Israelites go despite the plagues God unleashes on Egypt. Pharaoh finally lets Israel go after the 10th and final plague where every firstborn of Egypt died because they were not protected by the blood of the Passover lamb. Israel was set free but then pursued by Egypt. God miraculously divided the Red Sea for Israel to cross but then the Egyptians were drowned in teh process of going after Israel. Through the plagues, the Passover, and the Red Sea, God makes it clear: salvation isn’t earned—it’s delivered. The people are brought out, but quickly show what’s in their hearts—complaining, doubting, missing the mark again and again. Yet God provides anyway—water from the rock, bread from heaven, and victory over enemies. By chapter 19, they’re standing at Sinai—not as slaves anymore, but as a people set apart.

The message is clear: God redeems first, then calls His people to Himself.

Now, we come to Exodus 20-23 which is known as when God gives His law to His people at Mt. Sinai.

Why Did God Give the Law?

A. To Command — God Establishes the law because He is the authority. He is Righteous and He is Just. 

Exodus 20:1–2 — “I am the LORD thy God…”
Deuteronomy 6:4–5 — “The LORD our God is one LORD…”
Ecclesiastes 12:13 — “Fear God, and keep his commandments…”

- Authority starts with God not man. God speaks first.
- The law flows from who God is, not the opinions of man.
- Obedience is a response to redemption (“I brought you out…”)
- Establishes God as the standard, not culture or self

B. To Constrain— (To keep His Children from sin)
Exodus 20:13–17 — Commands that restrain harm
Psalm 119:11 — “Thy word have I hid in mine heart…”
Galatians 3:23 — “Kept under the law…”

- The law sets clear boundaries for behavior and character
- Prevents society from descending into chaos. All out anarchy. It gives a mark. A standard.
- Protects life, marriage, truth, and property
- Functions as a guardrail, not just a rulebook
- Even unbelievers benefit from the law. (The law restrains which protects)

C. To Convict — God Reveals Sin
Romans 3:20 — “By the law is the knowledge of sin”
Romans 7:7 — “I had not known sin, but by the law…”
Galatians 3:24 — “The law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ”

- The law exposes not just actions—the Law exposes the Herth
- Shows we don’t just break rules—we fall short of God
- The Law Removes self-righteousness
- ** The Law shows us that we have missed the Mark for Righteousness*
- Drives us to see our need for grace and a Savior
- The law diagnoses—the gospel delivers

God commands what is right, contains what is wrong, and convicts the heart that’s off target.

Do We Still Keep All the Laws?
The Law Is Fulfilled in Christ

Short answer: 
- Matthew 5:17 — “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.”
- Colossians 2:16–17 — These things were a shadow—Christ is the reality.

Jesus perfectly obeyed the law
He fulfilled its purpose. The law pointed to Him

We Are No Longer Under the Law for Salvation
- Romans 6:14 — “Not under the law, but under grace.”
- Galatians 2:16 — Not justified by the works of the law
- We don’t keep the law to be saved
- Salvation is by grace through faith
- The law cannot make us righteous

God’s Moral Standard Still Matters
- Romans 13:8–10 — Love fulfills the law
- John 14:15 — “If ye love me, keep my commandments.”

- God’s character hasn’t changed
- Right and wrong haven’t changed
- The moral law is reflected in loving God and loving people

What No Longer Applies the Same Way
Ceremonial Laws (sacrifices, feasts, rituals)
Fulfilled in Christ
Civil Laws for Israel (nation-specific laws)
Given to Israel as a nation, not directly binding today

The Key Distinction 
Moral Law = the principle (the mark)
Civil Law = the application (how Israel handled it)
Example:
Moral: “Thou shalt not steal”
Civil: “If someone steals an ox, repay fourfold” (application in Israel)

Why We Still Obey Moral laws (Commandments) 
1. “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”
2. “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image…”
3. “Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain…”
4. “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.”
5. “Honour thy father and thy mother…”
6. “Thou shalt not kill.”
7. “Thou shalt not commit adultery.”
8. “Thou shalt not steal.”
9. “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.”
10. “Thou shalt not covet…”

We keep them: 
- Not to earn salvation → but because we are saved
- Not external pressure → but internal transformation
- Not fear-based → but love-driven

Clarifying Truth
Israel wasn’t saved by the law—they were saved by God, and the law was given to reveal His standard, guide His people, and expose their need.

Outline: “Missing the Mark”

I.  Our Standard (Chapter 20) God sets the Mark
-God establishes the standard—this is what holiness looks like
-1 Peter 1:15–16 — “Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
-God’s standard didn’t change—His holiness is still the mark
-- We miss the mark of God's Holiness. This is why we have Jesus. 

II. Our Struggle (Chapters 21–22) We miss the mark
- Life reveals the reality—this is how people actually live (and miss the mark)
- Romans 3:23 — “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
- Real life proves it—we don’t live up to the standard
- Not only do we need Grace to be Saved, we also need Grace to live Holy lives.

III. Our Submission (Chapter 23) Through our yielding and surrender we can live Holy lives through Christ
- God still leads His people forward—this is how they are to walk with Him
- Ephesians 2:10 — “We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works…”
- We’re not just saved from something—we’re called to walk in something

Conclusion
God sets the standard, our lives fall short, but through Christ we live Holy. We hit the mark because of Jesus.  We are declared righteous through him.

 

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com 

Exodus 13-19 "Grace Despite our Failure"

02) Exodus 13-19
Title: Grace Despite our Failure
Text: Exodus 13-19

The Story so far:
So far in Exodus we’ve seen the people of Israel go from a family living in Egypt to a nation suffering under slavery. A new Pharaoh rose up who did not know Joseph, and he began to oppress God’s people because he feared their growing numbers. In the middle of that suffering, God preserved a baby boy named Moses, who would one day become the deliverer of Israel. God later called Moses at the burning bush and sent him back to Egypt to confront Pharaoh with a clear message: “Let my people go.” Pharaoh repeatedly hardened his heart, and God responded with a series of plagues that showed His power over Egypt and all of its gods. Finally, in Exodus 12, God established the Passover. The blood of the lamb protected the Israelites from judgment, and that night God struck Egypt with the final plague. Pharaoh finally let Israel go, and God began delivering His people out of slavery.

Now as we move forward into Exodus chapters 13 through 19, Israel has been delivered from Egypt—but their journey with God is really just beginning. They are no longer slaves, but they are still learning what it means to trust the Lord. And as we read these chapters, we see something very important: even though God has rescued them, the people struggle with fear, doubt, and complaining along the way. Yet through all of it, God continues to guide them, provide for them, and show patience toward them.

What happens in Exodus 13-19:

Exodus 13 – God Leads His People
After the Passover, God leads Israel out of Egypt with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The Lord personally guides His people as they begin their journey into the wilderness.
Grace: God leads His people even when they are inexperienced and uncertain.
“And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night.” (Exodus 13:21 KJV)
Failure: Though God is visibly guiding them, the people will soon struggle with fear and trust as difficulties arise.

Exodus 14 – Crossing the Red Sea
When Pharaoh’s army pursues Israel, the people become terrified and accuse Moses of bringing them into the wilderness to die. Yet God miraculously parts the Red Sea and rescues them.
Grace: God saves His people even when they doubt Him.
“And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.” (Exodus 14:22 KJV)
Failure: Fear replaces faith when danger appears.
“Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness?” (Exodus 14:11 KJV)

Exodus 15 – Celebration and Complaining
After the Red Sea, Israel sings a great song of victory praising God for delivering them from Egypt. Yet only a few days later, they begin complaining about the lack of water.
Grace: God provides for them by making the bitter waters of Marah sweet.
“There he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them.” (Exodus 15:25 KJV)
Failure: Their praise quickly turns into complaining.
“And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink?” (Exodus 15:24 KJV)

Exodus 16 – Manna from Heaven
The people complain again, this time about food, saying they wish they had remained in Egypt. Instead of abandoning them, God sends manna from heaven and quail to feed them.
Grace: God faithfully provides their daily needs.
“Then said the LORD unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you.” (Exodus 16:4 KJV)
Failure: They long for the comfort of their old life in Egypt.
“Would to God we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt.” (Exodus 16:3 KJV)

Exodus 17 – Water from the Rock
The people again complain because they have no water and begin questioning whether God is truly with them. God commands Moses to strike the rock, and water flows out for the people.
Grace: God provides water and later gives Israel victory over Amalek.
“Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it.” (Exodus 17:6 KJV)
Failure: They openly question God’s presence among them.
“Is the LORD among us, or not?” (Exodus 17:7 KJV)

Exodus 18 – Wise Leadership
Moses becomes overwhelmed trying to judge every dispute among the people. Jethro advises him to appoint capable leaders to help share the responsibility.
Grace: God provides wisdom and structure through Jethro’s counsel to strengthen the nation.
Failure: Without wise leadership and organization, the burden becomes too great for one man.

Exodus 19 – Preparing for the Covenant
Israel arrives at Mount Sinai where God prepares to establish His covenant with them. Before giving the law, God reminds them how He rescued them from Egypt.
Grace: God reminds them of His mercy and deliverance before calling them to obedience.
“Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself.” (Exodus 19:4 KJV)
Failure: Even after everything God has done, the people will continue to struggle with trust and obedience in the chapters ahead.

The Key Pattern:
God rescues Israel
Israel celebrates
There is a problem
Israel panics and complains
God shows grace and provides again

We learning in these passages that God is Gracious and slow to Anger.
We learn that the day to day for Moses was too much and he needed wise council. 
We learn that Israel's pattern of murmuring and complaining is a theme until they reach the promised land.

Outline:

I. Grace in a Guilty World
Even in a fallen world full of sin and suffering, God still intervenes to redeem His people.
Romans 5:8 (KJV)
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
This verse perfectly shows that God’s grace reaches us even in our guilt.

II. Grace Despite our Grievances
Israel repeatedly murmured and complained in the wilderness, yet God still showed patience and provision.
Exodus 16:8 (KJV)
“For that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.”
This connects directly to Israel’s complaining in the wilderness.

III. Grace through Godly Guidance
God often extends grace through the wise counsel and help of others.
Proverbs 11:14 (KJV)
“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”
This fits perfectly with Jethro’s counsel to Moses in Exodus 18.

Conclusion:
Romans 5:20 (KJV)
“Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.”

Even when people fail, even when they complain, even when the world is broken, God’s grace is greater.”

 

A special thank you to my Friend Michael Barnette for the song "All things new" and to my friend Dave Compton for the opening remarks.

To contact me, please email me at preachtheword@zohomail.com