Sermon Guide: Exodus 13:17-22 "Trust Me"

Key Passages

Exodus 13:17–22 ESV

When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said, “Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt.” But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle. Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph had made the sons of Israel solemnly swear, saying, “God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones with you from here.” And they moved on from Succoth and encamped at Etham, on the edge of the wilderness. And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people.

Sermon Overview

Sometimes we think we can see the best path out ahead of us — the path that would get us to where we want to be quickly and directly. And then God throws us a curveball, and takes us on the path that seems more difficult. Why does God withhold certain things from us? Why does he lead us into trouble, suffering, and sorrow? Exodus 13:17–22 shows us that God has his reason, and we have good reason to trust him.

Sermon Structure

#1 “Why the hard way?”

• God has his reasons

• God will go to great lengths to protect your soul

#2 “Do you trust me?”

• The plunder

• The bones

• The cross & empty tomb

Questions for Discussion & Reflection

1. Do you have an “Egypt” that you’re tempted to run back to, when times are hard?

   
   

2. Psalm 84:11 says that God doesn’t withhold good from those who walk uprightly; is there a difference between something being good, and something being good for you, at this time?

   
   

3. Joseph’s bones were a tangible reminder of God’s fulfilled promises. What can you look to, from Scripture or your own life, to strengthen you and remind you that God keeps his promises?