The Background Story of the Israelites
"God Is With Us" Bible Lesson, Exodus 17
The Israelites have a fascinating background story that spans many generations. It all started with a man named Abraham, who lived thousands of years ago. God made a special promise to Abraham, saying that he would be the father of a great nation and that his descendants would inherit a special land. This promise was passed down through generations, from Abraham to his son Isaac, and then to Isaac’s son Jacob.
Jacob, who was later renamed Israel, had twelve sons who became the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. Unfortunately, a famine forced the Israelites to seek refuge in Egypt, where they were treated kindly at first. However, as time went on, the new Pharaoh was not as friendly and sought to enslave the Israelites. It was during this time of slavery that God heard the cries of His people and began to set in motion a plan to deliver them. This sets the stage for the incredible story of the Israelites’ journey to freedom and the fulfillment of God’s promise.
God’s Promise to Abraham and His Descendants
In the book of Genesis, we learn about God’s promise to Abraham and his descendants. God chose Abraham to be the father of a great nation and promised to bless him and his offspring. In Genesis 12:2-3, God said to Abraham, “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” This promise was a special covenant between God and Abraham, and it would have a significant impact on the future of the Israelites.
Abraham obeyed God and trusted in His promise, even though he and his wife Sarah were old and did not have any children. But God remained faithful to His word. In Genesis 21:1-2, we read that Sarah miraculously gave birth to a son named Isaac, fulfilling God’s promise. Through Isaac, Abraham’s descendants would become the chosen people of God, the Israelites. This promise would later be passed down to Isaac’s son Jacob and eventually lead to the formation of the twelve tribes of Israel. The faithfulness and fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham demonstrate His unfailing love and the importance of trusting in His plans.
The Israelites’ Enslavement in Egypt
The Israelites’ Enslavement in Egypt was a dark and difficult time for God’s chosen people. After the death of Joseph, who had been a powerful figure in Egypt, a new Pharaoh came to power who did not remember Joseph’s kindness towards the Egyptians during a severe famine. This Pharaoh saw the Israelites multiplying and growing strong, and he grew fearful that they would become a threat to his kingdom.
To exert control and suppress the Israelites, Pharaoh made them slaves, forcing them into hard labor and subjecting them to harsh treatment. The Israelites endured years of oppression, their cries for help reaching the ears of God. Yet, through it all, God never forgot His promise to Abraham and his descendants. He had a plan to rescue His people from Egypt’s grip and lead them to a land flowing with milk and honey, a land of freedom and promise.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 1:8-14
Interactive Bible Story: Share with the children the story of Moses’ birth and how he was saved by Pharaoh’s daughter. Emphasize God’s faithfulness in preserving Moses for a greater purpose.
Discussion Questions:
1. How do you think the Israelite slaves felt during their time of enslavement?
2. Why do you think it’s important to remember God’s promises during difficult times?
Learning Activities:
1. Create a simple puppet show depicting the Israelites’ enslavement. Act out the story and share it with others.
2. Draw a picture of Moses as a baby and share it with your family or friends, explaining the story behind it.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for always being faithful to your promises. Help us to remember that even in difficult times, you have a plan for us. Amen.
Moses’ Call and the Plagues of Egypt
Moses’ Call and the Plagues of Egypt
In the land of Egypt, the Israelites had become slaves, living under the harsh rule of Pharaoh. However, God had a plan to deliver His people from their bondage. He chose Moses, a humble shepherd, to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land.
One day, while Moses was tending his sheep, he encountered a burning bush that was not consumed by the flames. Curious, he approached the bush, and to his surprise, God spoke to him from within the fiery blaze. “Moses, I have seen the suffering of my people in Egypt, and I have heard their cries for help,” God said. “I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people out of Egypt.” (Exodus 3:7-10)
Moses was afraid and doubted his ability to fulfill God’s plan. But God assured Moses that He would be with him every step of the way. “I will be with you,” God promised. “And I will perform signs and wonders in Egypt to show my power.” (Exodus 3:12) Thus, armed with God’s call and assurance, Moses embarked on a mission to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites.
As Moses stood before Pharaoh, God unleashed a series of plagues upon Egypt. Each plague demonstrated God’s supremacy over the false gods of Egypt and served as a powerful reminder of His authority. From turning the Nile River into blood to sending swarms of flies and hailstorms, God’s power was on full display. Despite Pharaoh’s stubbornness and refusal to let the Israelites go, the plagues served as a testament to the Israelites and the world that God was mighty and would fulfill His promise of deliverance.
(Note: This article is intended for a general audience and does not specifically cater to a children’s Bible study.)
The Passover and the Israelites’ Escape from Egypt
The Passover is a significant event in the history of the Israelites. As they prepared to escape from Egypt, God instructed them to follow specific instructions for this holy celebration. According to the book of Exodus in the Bible, the Israelites were instructed to take a lamb without any defects, slaughter it, and put its blood on the doorposts of their houses. This act of obedience would signify their faith and trust in God’s promise of deliverance.
On that fateful night, the final plague struck Egypt, causing the death of all the firstborn, both human and animal. However, the Israelites were spared from this devastating plague because the blood on their doorposts served as a sign for God’s judgment to pass over them. In the midst of this terror and chaos, the Israelites were able to escape from their slavery in Egypt.
As we reflect on this incredible story, it is essential to remember not only the physical escape of the Israelites but also the symbolic meaning behind the Passover. It teaches us about God’s faithfulness, protection, and the importance of obedience. This event foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who shed His blood for our salvation. Through the Passover, we learn about God’s plan to deliver His people and His incredible love for us.
Crossing the Red Sea and God’s Deliverance
The crossing of the Red Sea is one of the most significant events in the story of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. It was a miraculous display of God’s power and deliverance. After Pharaoh finally allowed the Israelites to leave, he changed his mind and pursued them with his army. As the Israelites approached the Red Sea, they found themselves trapped between the vast body of water and the approaching Egyptian army. Fear and panic filled the air as they saw their escape route seemingly cut off. But God had a plan.
In Exodus 14:21-22, we read how the Lord caused a strong wind to blow all night, parting the waters of the Red Sea and creating a dry path in the middle. Moses, following God’s instructions, led the Israelites through the sea on dry ground. As they made their way across, the towering walls of water on either side must have been an awe-inspiring sight. When the Egyptians foolishly pursued them, God caused the waters to close in on them, drowning the entire army. It was a powerful demonstration of God’s protection and deliverance for His people. This miraculous event reminded the Israelites and us today that nothing is impossible for God.
The Israelites’ Journey in the Wilderness
The Israelites’ journey in the wilderness was a time of both challenges and growth. After their miraculous escape from Egypt, led by their faithful leader Moses, the Israelites found themselves in a vast and unfamiliar desert. With no clear path ahead, they relied on the guidance and provision of God.
During their time in the wilderness, the Israelites faced numerous trials. They had to overcome scarcity of food and water, endure harsh weather conditions, and navigate treacherous terrains. However, through it all, God was with them, guiding them every step of the way. He provided for their needs by miraculously raining down bread from heaven, known as manna, and by bringing water forth from a rock. These miracles reminded the Israelites of God’s faithfulness and his ability to meet their every need. They learned to trust in Him and depend on His provision.
Scripture Reading:
Read Exodus 16:1-18 and Exodus 17:1-7.
Interactive Bible Story:
Tell the children the story of the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness, emphasizing God’s provision of manna and water. Use visual aids or props to make the story engaging for the children.
Discussion Questions:
1. How do you think the Israelites felt when they were in the wilderness?
2. How did God provide for the needs of the Israelites in the wilderness?
3. Why do you think it was important for the Israelites to trust in God during this time?
Learning Activities:
1. Create a craft: Provide the children with construction paper, scissors, and markers to make their own manna and water crafts.
2. Wilderness obstacle course: Set up an obstacle course in an open space and let the children navigate through it to experience some of the challenges the Israelites faced in the wilderness.
Prayer:
Lead the children in a prayer, thanking God for His provision and asking for His guidance in their own journeys.
Remember to continue the article with the next heading and section without concluding this part of it.
God’s Provision of Manna and Water
With the Israelites now journeying in the wilderness, God continued to provide for their needs. In this barren and desolate land, where food and water were scarce, God displayed His faithfulness and care for His people. As the Israelites grumbled and complained about their lack of provisions, God intervened and provided them with a miraculous and unexpected source of sustenance.
Exodus 16:15 tells us that one morning, when the Israelites woke up, they stepped outside and found that the ground was covered with a fine, flaky substance. They had never seen anything like it before, and they didn’t know what it was. Moses explained to them that this was the bread that God had provided for them to eat. They called it ‘manna,’ which means, “What is it?” They were to gather it every day, except on the Sabbath, and it would serve as their nourishment in the wilderness.
God not only provided manna from heaven, but He also quenched the thirst of His people by giving them water from a rock. In Exodus 17:6, God instructed Moses to strike a rock with his staff, and miraculously, water gushed forth, providing enough for all the Israelites and their livestock. This demonstration of God’s power and provision reinforced His faithfulness and care for His chosen people.
Through the provision of manna and water, God not only sustained the physical needs of the Israelites but also taught them to trust and rely on Him for everything. In the wilderness, they were completely dependent on God’s provision, and He constantly reminded them of His love and faithfulness. These miraculous acts of God served as a powerful reminder to the Israelites, and they were a vital part of their journey towards the promised land.
The Ten Commandments and God’s Covenant
In the Old Testament of the Bible, in the book of Exodus, we find the story of Moses and the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness. During this time, God made a covenant with his people and gave them a set of laws to live by, known as the Ten Commandments. These commandments were not only a guide for the Israelites but also a reflection of God’s character and the moral standards he desired for his people.
The Ten Commandments are found in Exodus 20:1-17, and they cover various aspects of life, including one’s relationship with God and others. One of the commandments states, “You shall have no other gods before me,” emphasizing the importance of worshipping and trusting in the one true God. Another commandment teaches us to honor our parents, showing respect and obedience towards those who care for us. Each commandment carries significant meaning and serves as a foundation for living a life pleasing to God.
As children, it is essential to understand the significance of these commandments and how they shape our lives. Through interactive Bible stories and discussions, we can explore the meaning behind each commandment and how it applies to our daily lives. We can reflect on the ways in which we can honor God, treat others with kindness and respect, and make wise choices that align with God’s desires for us. By learning and following the Ten Commandments, we can have a deeper understanding of God’s covenant with us and strive to live in a way that pleases him.
The Israelites’ Arrival at the Promised Land
After years of wandering in the wilderness, the Israelites finally reached the land God had promised them. This was a significant moment in their journey, as they had longed for a place they could call home. As they stood on the edge of the Promised Land, their hearts must have been filled with both excitement and anticipation. They had seen God’s faithfulness throughout their journey, and they knew that He would continue to guide and provide for them as they entered this new chapter.
Scripture Reading: Joshua 1:2-3
“‘Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses.'”
Interactive Bible Story: Tell the children the story of Joshua and the Israelites crossing the Jordan River and conquering the land. Remind them of the faith and obedience displayed by the Israelites as they followed God’s instructions.
Discussion Questions:
1. How do you think the Israelites felt when they finally arrived in the Promised Land?
2. Why do you think it was important for them to trust and obey God as they entered the new land?
3. Can you think of a time when you had to trust God and step into something new and unknown?
Learning Activities:
1. Have the children draw a picture of the Promised Land and discuss what they would like to see and experience there.
2. Play a game of “Follow the Leader” to remind the children of the importance of following God’s guidance.
3. Create a timeline of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, emphasizing the key events and milestones along the way.
Prayer:
Guide the children in a prayer to thank God for His faithfulness in leading the Israelites to the Promised Land and to ask for His guidance and provision in their own lives.
With their arrival at the Promised Land, the Israelites had finally reached the destination they had been dreaming of. However, little did they know that their journey was far from over. In the following chapters, we will explore their adventures and challenges as they settle in their new homeland and learn more about the faithfulness of God.
Stay tuned for the next installment of our children’s Bible study, where we will continue to learn valuable lessons from the Israelites’ journey and discover how God remains faithful to His promises.
Who were the Israelites and what is their background story?
The Israelites were descendants of Abraham and his family, chosen by God to be His special people. Their background story includes their journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land.
What was God’s promise to Abraham and his descendants?
God promised Abraham that He would make his descendants into a great nation and give them the land of Canaan as their inheritance.
How did the Israelites end up being enslaved in Egypt?
The Israelites initially settled in Egypt during a famine, but over time, they became slaves to the Egyptians due to their increasing numbers and fear of their power.
Who was Moses and what was his role in the story?
Moses was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. He confronted Pharaoh, performed miracles, and guided the Israelites through the wilderness to the Promised Land.
What were the plagues of Egypt?
The plagues of Egypt were a series of ten devastating disasters sent by God to convince Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. These plagues included turning the Nile into blood, locusts, and the death of the firstborn.
How did the Israelites escape from Egypt?
Through God’s guidance, the Israelites observed the Passover, where the angel of death passed over their homes. They then left Egypt in haste, with Pharaoh eventually letting them go after the death of his own son.
How did the Israelites cross the Red Sea?
God parted the waters of the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land. When the pursuing Egyptian army attempted to follow, the sea closed back up, drowning them.
What was the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness like?
The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years as a result of their disobedience to God. During this time, they faced various challenges and learned important lessons of faith and obedience.
How did God provide for the Israelites in the wilderness?
God provided the Israelites with manna, a miraculous bread-like substance, and water from a rock to sustain them during their time in the wilderness.
What were the Ten Commandments and God’s covenant?
The Ten Commandments were a set of moral and religious laws given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. They formed the basis of the covenant between God and the Israelites, outlining their responsibilities and promises.
How did the Israelites finally arrive at the Promised Land?
After forty years of wandering, the Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, crossed the Jordan River and entered the land of Canaan, which God had promised to give them as their inheritance.