Then Moses' father-in-law Jethro brought a burnt offering and sacrifices to God, and Aaron came with all the elders of Israel to eat bread with Moses' father-in-law in the presence of God. Then Jethro, Moses’ father-in-lawJethro, also known as Reuel, is a significant figure in the narrative of Exodus. As Moses' father-in-law, he represents a bridge between Moses' life in Midian and his mission to lead the Israelites. The Hebrew root for Jethro (יִתְרוֹ, Yitro) suggests abundance or excellence, which is fitting given his wise counsel to Moses. Historically, Jethro is a priest of Midian, indicating a position of spiritual and communal leadership. His relationship with Moses underscores the importance of familial and spiritual guidance in leadership. brought a burnt offering and sacrifices to God and Aaron came with all the elders of Israel to eat bread with Moses’ father-in-law in the presence of God Persons / Places / Events 1. JethroMoses' father-in-law, a priest of Midian, who acknowledges the God of Israel and offers sacrifices. 2. Moses The leader of the Israelites, who is visited by his father-in-law, Jethro. 3. Aaron Moses' brother and the high priest, who joins in the communal meal. 4. Elders of Israel Leaders among the Israelites who participate in the meal with Jethro and Moses. 5. Burnt Offering and Sacrifices Acts of worship and dedication to God, signifying reverence and acknowledgment of His sovereignty. Teaching Points Acknowledgment of God's SovereigntyJethro's offering signifies recognition of God's power and authority. Believers are called to acknowledge God's sovereignty in their lives through worship and obedience. Unity in Worship The gathering of Jethro, Moses, Aaron, and the elders highlights the importance of communal worship. Christians are encouraged to gather in fellowship, strengthening their faith and unity. Inclusivity in God's Plan Jethro, a Midianite, participates in worship, illustrating that God's plan includes all nations. Believers should embrace and share the Gospel with people from all backgrounds. Leadership and Servanthood The presence of the elders signifies the role of leadership in guiding and serving the community. Christian leaders are called to serve with humility and dedication. Presence of God in Fellowship The meal "in the presence of God" emphasizes that God is present in our gatherings. Believers should seek to honor God in all aspects of their communal life. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jethro's offering in Exodus 18:12 demonstrate his acknowledgment of the God of Israel, and what can we learn from his example about recognizing God's work in our lives?2. In what ways does the communal meal in Exodus 18:12 reflect the importance of fellowship in the Christian faith, and how can we apply this in our church communities today? 3. How does the inclusion of Jethro, a non-Israelite, in worship relate to the New Testament teachings on the inclusion of Gentiles, and what does this mean for our approach to evangelism? 4. What role do the elders play in this passage, and how can their example inform our understanding of leadership and servanthood in the church? 5. How can we ensure that our gatherings, whether in church or small groups, are conducted "in the presence of God," and what practical steps can we take to foster this awareness? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 14Melchizedek, a priest of God Most High, brings out bread and wine and blesses Abram, paralleling the priestly acknowledgment of God's work. Leviticus 7 Describes the peace offerings, which include communal meals, similar to the meal shared in Exodus 18:12. Acts 10 Cornelius, a Gentile, receives a vision and acknowledges God, showing the inclusion of non-Israelites in God's plan. Hebrews 13 Encourages believers to offer sacrifices of praise, connecting to the idea of worship and fellowship in God's presence.
People Aaron, Egyptians, Eliezer, Gershom, Jethro, Moses, Pharaoh, ZipporahPlaces Egypt, Midian, RephidimTopics Aaron, Bread, Burned, Burnt, Burnt-offering, Chiefs, Eat, Elders, Father-in-law, Jethro, Law, Meal, Moses's, Offered, Offering, Presence, Sacrifices, TakethDictionary of Bible Themes Exodus 18:12 4438 eating Library The Ideal Statesman [Footnote: Preached on Occasion of Mr. Gladstone's Death. ]'Thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them.'--EXODUS xviii. 21. You will have anticipated my purpose in selecting this text. I should be doing violence to your feelings and mine if I made no reference to the event which has united the Empire and the world in one sentiment. The great tree has fallen, and the crash has for the moment silenced all the sounds of the forest. Wars abroad and controversies at home are … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Gershom and Eliezer The Origin and Growth of Law. The Development of the Earlier Old Testament Laws That the Ruler Relax not his Care for the Things that are Within in his Occupation among the Things that are Without, nor Neglect to Provide Opposition to Messiah Ruinous Easter Tuesday After the Scripture. Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes Exodus Links Exodus 18:12 NIVExodus 18:12 NLT Exodus 18:12 ESV Exodus 18:12 NASB Exodus 18:12 KJV Exodus 18:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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