Moses' father-in-law Jethro, along with Moses' wife and sons, came to him in the desert, where he was encamped at the mountain of God. Jethro, Moses’ father-in-lawThe name "Jethro" is derived from the Hebrew root "יתר" (yeter), meaning "abundance" or "excellence." Jethro, also known as Reuel, is a significant figure in the narrative of Moses, representing wisdom and counsel. As Moses' father-in-law, he holds a position of respect and authority. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, family ties were crucial, and Jethro's relationship with Moses underscores the importance of familial bonds and the sharing of wisdom across generations. Jethro's visit is a reminder of the value of seeking counsel from those who have walked before us in faith and life. came to Moses in the wilderness where he was camped at the mountain of God Persons / Places / Events 1. JethroMoses' father-in-law, a priest of Midian, who plays a significant role in advising Moses on leadership and governance. 2. Moses The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. 3. Moses' Sons and Wife They are brought by Jethro to reunite with Moses, highlighting the importance of family even amidst leadership responsibilities. 4. The Wilderness Represents the place of testing and reliance on God, where the Israelites are journeying towards the Promised Land. 5. The Mountain of God Refers to Mount Sinai, a significant location where God reveals Himself and gives the Law to Moses. Teaching Points The Importance of Family SupportMoses' reunion with his family underscores the significance of familial relationships and support, even for those in leadership roles. The Role of Wise Counsel Jethro's visit is a precursor to his wise counsel to Moses, reminding us of the value of seeking and heeding godly advice in our lives. Sacred Spaces and Encounters with God The mountain of God is a place of divine encounter and revelation, encouraging us to seek our own sacred spaces for communion with God. Leadership and Delegation The account sets the stage for Jethro's advice on delegation, teaching us the importance of sharing responsibilities to avoid burnout and ensure effective leadership. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the reunion of Moses with his family in the wilderness speak to the balance between leadership responsibilities and family commitments?2. In what ways can we seek and apply wise counsel in our own lives, as Moses did with Jethro? 3. What are some "mountains of God" or sacred spaces in your life where you have experienced God's presence and guidance? 4. How does the concept of delegation, as later advised by Jethro, apply to your current responsibilities at work, church, or home? 5. Reflect on a time when you were in a "wilderness" season. How did God provide support and guidance through others during that time? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 3:1Connects to the initial encounter of Moses with God at the burning bush, also at the mountain of God, emphasizing the sacredness of this location. Exodus 19:2-3 Describes the Israelites' arrival at Mount Sinai, where God will establish His covenant with them, further highlighting the importance of this mountain. Numbers 10:29-32 Jethro's role as an advisor and his relationship with Moses is further explored, showing the value of wise counsel. Deuteronomy 1:9-18 Moses recounts the advice given by Jethro on delegating leadership, which is crucial for effective governance.
People Aaron, Egyptians, Eliezer, Gershom, Jethro, Moses, Pharaoh, ZipporahPlaces Egypt, Midian, RephidimTopics Camped, Desert, Encamped, Encamping, Father-in-law, Jethro, Law, Moses's, Mount, Mountain, Sons, Tent, Waste, Wife, WildernessDictionary of Bible Themes Exodus 18:3-4Library 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 18:5 NIVExodus 18:5 NLT Exodus 18:5 ESV Exodus 18:5 NASB Exodus 18:5 KJV Exodus 18:5 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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