Who
Moses to Israel (the second generation that came out of the Egypt)
Where & When
This book was written as the second book in a five-part series (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) in approximately 1406 BC in the Wilderness of Sinai and/or the Plains of Moab just south or east of modern Israel. In the context of its composition, Israel resides in the Transjordanian Plateau region and is poised to conquer the Promised Land of Canaan on the other side of the Jordan River.
Why
To recount to Israel her origin of redemption from exile and to document her national charter as a Kingdom of Priests to represent God to the nations. This book establishes the “WHAT” of God’s plan for Israel. Israel is called to be a Kingdom of Priests (the “WHAT”; i.e. representatives) to God on behalf of all the nations.
How
Be paying attention to these important terms that occur in this book:
- Name (from which the Hebrew name for the book of Exodus comes)
- Glory (or Honor, Heaviness; also watch for the related terms of Hardness and Strength)
- Sending
- Salvation (or Redemption, Deliverance)
Literary Outline
- Ex. 1:1 – 18:27 Israel’s National Origin of Redemption
- Ex. 19:1 – 40:38 Israel’s National Charter as Priestly Representatives