Time & Place
- Time: 1491 BC
- Location: Wilderness of Sin → Rephidim → Mount Sinai
- Setting: Israel journeying after the Exodus and arriving at Sinai (Exod 17–19)
Where Are We in the Text?
- Israel contends for water; the LORD provides water from the rock at Horeb (Exod 17:1–7).
- Amalek attacks; Israel prevails through intercession while Joshua leads in battle (Exod 17:8–13).
- Jethro counsels Moses regarding delegated leadership and administration (Exod 18:1–27).
- Israel arrives at Mount Sinai; the LORD announces His covenant purpose (Exod 19:1–6).
Where Are We in Time?
- These chapters span the early weeks of Israel’s wilderness journey following the Exodus (Exod 12–15).
- Israel reaches Mount Sinai approximately three months after departing Egypt (Exod 19:1).
- The nation transitions from redeemed travelers to a people being prepared to receive the Law.
Where Are We on the Map?
- Rephidim: Site of water from the rock and conflict with Amalek (Exod 17:1, 6, 8).
- Mount Sinai (Horeb): Destination of the journey and location of covenant revelation (Exod 19:1–2).
Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)
- Israel is redeemed but not yet under the Mosaic Covenant (Exod 12–14; 19–20).
- God demonstrates provision, protection, and order prior to lawgiving (Exod 16–18).
- Preparation is made for Israel’s constitution as a theocratic nation (Exod 19:5–6).
Why This Matters
- God supplies need and grants victory apart from Israel’s strength (Exod 17:6, 13).
- Leadership structure is established before the giving of the Law (Exod 18:17–23).
- God separates Israel in preparation for covenant responsibility (Exod 19:4–6).
How This Reading Relates to What Follows
- The giving of the Law will immediately follow Israel’s arrival at Sinai (Exod 20).
- God’s voice will formally define Israel’s covenant obligations and national identity.
Summary Orientation
- Israel is sustained, protected, and ordered in the wilderness.
- External opposition and internal need are met by divine provision.
- The nation arrives at Sinai ready to receive the Law.
Coming soon…