Week 6: Story of a Shepherd
Israelites and the Desert
Understanding the need for a shepherd in the Biblical narrative by reviewing the story of the Israelites in the desert
Scripture Reading: Exodus 14:10-28; 16:11-15, 17:5-7; 17:8-13; 40:34-38; Numbers 21:4-9
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Which story of God’s provision stands out most to you?
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What do we see Moses doing in these passages? What do you think he was feeling?
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God writes Moses into His story as a shepherd, as well as a deliverer. Which role do you think was more difficult for Moses? Why?
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How does God’s provision in the desert point ahead to Jesus?
(Think about the names we give Him—Good Shepherd, Bread of Life, etc.)
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The Israelites are delivered almost instantly from slavery in Egypt, but then begin a long and difficult journey to the Promised Land.
There is a spiritual parallel: we are freed immediately from sin, but the journey back into a trusting relationship with our Good Shepherd can still be a long process. What has this process been like for you?