The moment of departure – Preaching
Preaching Outline on Exodus 14:8 – “For the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, that he should pursue the children of Israel; but the children of Israel went out with a high hand.”
Introduction
Exodus 14:8 recounts a crucial moment in the history of God’s people: their departure from Egypt. For generations, Israel had lived as slaves, but God heard the cry of his people and acted powerfully to free them. In Egypt, the people experienced several significant events:
- The plagues: each plague demonstrated God’s power and sovereignty over the Egyptian gods.
- The death of the firstborn: a final demonstration of God’s justice against Pharaoh’s obstinacy.
- The institution of the Passover: a spiritual and prophetic milestone that pointed to the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ.
In this moment of departure, the people needed to understand something fundamental: they weren’t just leaving a place of oppression, they were journeying towards a new reality prepared by God. This is a powerful teaching for us as a church too, as we are on our own journey of departure towards Jesus’ return.
Development
Just as Israel had a commitment to the moment of its departure from Egypt, the church also has a commitment to its departure from this world. Jesus will soon return, and that is the greatest hope we can have. However, just as Israel faced persecution, the church also faces challenges on its journey. Let’s reflect on this:
Why were the people being persecuted?
The people of Israel were persecuted because they were leaving Egypt. Their decision to leave marked a definitive break with slavery. In the same way, we are persecuted because we have broken with sin and the values of this world.
John 15:18-19 – “If the world hates you, know that it hated me first of all.”
Reflect on the afflictions you face. They are not signs of defeat, but evidence that you are moving towards something greater. Persevere in prayer, seek God’s direction and don’t let the struggles take you away from the hope of Jesus’ return.
Why did God harden Pharaoh’s heart?
God hardened Pharaoh’s heart to show the people that it was he who would bring them out of Egypt. It wouldn’t be a discreet exit or a human effort, but a supernatural, high-handed deliverance.
Deuteronomy 4:34 – “Or if God has purposed to go and take for himself a people from among another people, with trials, with signs, with miracles, and with war, with a mighty hand and with an outstretched arm.”
Remember that God is the one who leads your life and your battles. Often, God allows struggles to teach us to depend completely on Him. Trust in God’s mighty hand and surrender your challenges to Him.
The meaning of departure for God’s people
Leaving Egypt symbolizes redemption. Just as Israel was freed from slavery, we have been freed from sin by the blood of Jesus.
Colossians 1:13 – “He has taken us out of the power of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son of his love.”
Live like you’ve been set free! Don’t let yourself be trapped by old habits or fears. Reject everything that tries to keep you away from God’s presence and seek to grow spiritually, trusting in God’s plan for your life.
Commitment to the moment of departure
Just as Israel had a certain destiny, the church also has a glorious hope: the return of Jesus. This is our greatest promise and should be the focus of our Christian walk.
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 – “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, and those who have died in Christ will rise first. Then we who are left alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds.”
Prepare daily for Jesus’ return. Invest time in your relationship with God, be in fellowship with your family and church, and share the gospel with others. Let your life reflect the hope you have in Christ.
Conclusion
Israel faced challenges and persecution, but God led them with a mighty hand to freedom. In the same way, we face struggles and difficulties, but our hope is certain: the Lord will lead us to him with a mighty hand.
Even if you don’t understand all the circumstances of your life, keep your eyes firmly on the promise. The moment of departure is near, and Jesus will return for his church. May this hope renew your strength and encourage you to remain faithful.
- Reflect on your spiritual journey and assess whether you are prepared for the moment of departure.
- Share the hope of Jesus’ return with someone this week.
- Strengthen your relationship with God through prayer, reading the Word and attending church.
May the Lord find us ready when the trumpet sounds!
More Preaching Outlines
- Tell the people to march – Exodus 14:15
- Victory in the Blood of the Lamb – Exodus 12:13-1
- Exodus 12:13-14 – The Passover
- Luke 23:33-42 – Jesus among the evildoers
