Exodus 14:25

He caused their chariot wheels to wobble, so that they had difficulty driving. "Let us flee from the Israelites," said the Egyptians, "for the LORD is fighting for them against Egypt!"

Study Bible

He caused their chariot wheels to wobble
This phrase highlights the divine intervention of God in the natural world. The Hebrew root for "wobble" is "נָהַג" (nahag), which can mean to lead, drive, or guide. In this context, it signifies a disruption in the normal function of the chariots, symbolizing God's direct action against the Egyptians. Historically, chariots were a symbol of military power and technological advancement in ancient Egypt. By causing the wheels to wobble, God demonstrates His supremacy over human strength and ingenuity, reminding us that no earthly power can stand against His will.

so that they had difficulty driving
This phrase underscores the frustration and helplessness of the Egyptian forces. The difficulty in driving their chariots is a direct result of God's intervention. The Hebrew word for "difficulty" is "כָּבֵד" (kaved), which can also mean heavy or burdensome. This suggests that the Egyptians were weighed down by their own reliance on human strength and technology. In a broader spiritual sense, it serves as a reminder that reliance on worldly power without acknowledging God's sovereignty leads to inevitable failure and frustration.

Let us flee from the Israelites
Here, the Egyptians recognize the futility of their pursuit. The word "flee" in Hebrew is "נָס" (nas), which conveys a sense of urgency and panic. This marks a turning point where the Egyptians, once confident in their military might, are now in retreat. The Israelites, who were once enslaved and powerless, are now seen as a force to be reckoned with because of God's presence with them. This reversal of roles is a powerful testament to God's ability to elevate the humble and bring down the proud.

for the LORD is fighting for them
This phrase is a profound acknowledgment of God's active role in the deliverance of His people. The Hebrew name for "LORD" here is "יהוה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and commitment to His promises. The word "fighting" is "לָחַם" (lacham), which means to battle or wage war. This illustrates that God is not a distant observer but an active participant in the struggles of His people. It reassures believers that God is always on the side of those who trust in Him, fighting their battles and ensuring their victory.

against Egypt
This final phrase identifies the object of God's judgment. Egypt, in the biblical narrative, often symbolizes oppression, idolatry, and defiance against God. By fighting against Egypt, God is executing judgment on a nation that has resisted His will and oppressed His people. This serves as a warning to all nations and individuals who oppose God's purposes. It also provides hope and encouragement to believers, affirming that God will ultimately deliver them from all forms of bondage and oppression.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who intervenes directly in the events to deliver His people.

2. The Egyptians
The oppressors of the Israelites, pursuing them to bring them back into slavery.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, fleeing from Egyptian bondage towards the Promised Land.

4. The Red Sea
The body of water that the Israelites crossed, which God used as a means of deliverance.

5. Chariots and Wheels
The military technology of the Egyptians, which God rendered ineffective.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
God is in control of all circumstances, even those that seem insurmountable. He can turn the tide in favor of His people.

Divine Intervention
The LORD actively intervenes in the lives of His people. We can trust Him to act on our behalf in times of trouble.

Recognizing God's Hand
The Egyptians recognized that the LORD was fighting for Israel. We should be attentive to see God's hand in our lives and give Him glory.

Faith in God's Power
Just as the Israelites had to trust God to deliver them, we are called to have faith in His power and promises.

The Futility of Opposing God
The Egyptians' defeat illustrates the futility of opposing God's will. Aligning with God's purposes leads to victory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event of the chariot wheels wobbling demonstrate God's control over nature and human technology?

2. In what ways can we see God's intervention in our own lives, similar to His intervention for the Israelites?

3. How does the recognition by the Egyptians that "the LORD is fighting for them" challenge us to see God's work in our adversities?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' faith in crossing the Red Sea that apply to our own faith journey?

5. How can we ensure that we are aligning ourselves with God's purposes rather than opposing them, as the Egyptians did?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 136
This psalm recounts God's enduring love and mighty acts, including the parting of the Red Sea, emphasizing His power and faithfulness.

Isaiah 63
This passage reflects on God's past acts of salvation, including the Exodus, highlighting His role as a warrior for His people.

Hebrews 11
The chapter of faith, which includes the faith of Moses and the Israelites in crossing the Red Sea, demonstrating trust in God's deliverance.