C.A.C Unified Bible Study Manual For March 31/April 1, 2025: Topic - The Oppression of Israel and Pharaoh's Shrewd Strategies

C.A.C Unified Bible Study Manual For March 31/April 1, 2025: Topic - The  Oppression of Israel and Pharaoh's Shrewd Strategies

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH (Nigeria and Overseas)

UNIFIED BIBLE STUDY MANUAL 

March 31/April 1, 2025

THE OPPRESSION OF ISRAEL AND PHARAOH'S SHREWD STRATEGIES

Exodus 1:1-22

STUDY 1

INTRODUCTION

Exodus 1 introduces a pivotal shift in Israel's history, moving from prosperity under Joseph to severe oppression under a new Pharaoh who feared the Israelites' growing numbers. This study examines the harsh realities of the Israelites' suffering, Pharaoh's cunning strategies to weaken them and the courageous response of 2 Hebrew midwives who defied his orders. The passage reveals the dynamics of power, oppression and God's unwavering faithfulness to His people.

DISCUSSION

1. WHAT?

Exodus 1:1-22 describe how the Israelites, who had thrived during Joseph's time, were oppressed by a new Pharaoh. Fearing their growing numbers, the new Pharaoh imposed harsh labour in order to control them.

Key Points:

➤ Israel had multiplied, which alarmed the new Pharaoh, prompting him to enforce harsh labour to subdue them (vv 7,10-14).

➤ Pharaoh's oppressive measures escalated when he ordered Hebrew midwives to kill new-born boys at birth, but the midwives, fearing God, defied him and saved the children (vv. 15-18). 

➤ God blessed the midwives for their obedience and despite Pharaoh's efforts, the Israelites continued to grow (vv. 20-21).

2. WHO?

Key Figures and their Roles:

Pharaoh: The new king of Egypt feared the growing Israelites and oppressed them to maintain control (Exod. 1:8-14). His attempts to weaken them failed (vv. 15-16,18,20).

Israelites: The descendants of Jacob who faced severe oppression from Pharaoh (vv. 9, 14).

Shiphrah and Puah: 2 Hebrew midwives who defied Pharaoh's order out of fear of God. They saved the Hebrew boys, resisting Pharaoh's plans (vv. 15, 17).

3. WHY?

Reasons for the Oppression: Pharaoh, fearing rebellion, or alliances due to the growing Israelite's population, imposed harsh measures, like forced labour to weaken and control them (vv. 9-14).

Underlying Motivation:

He wanted to keep Egyptian control and stop the Israelites from becoming a threat (Exod. 1:11).

Killing new-born Hebrew boys was meant to remove future leaders who might challenge Pharaoh (vv. 16, 22).

Hence, Pharaoh used fear and oppression typical of a tyrant to maintain control. (vv. 13-14). Despite his cruelty, his actions unwittingly advanced God's plan for the Israelites' deliverance (vv. 8-12).

4. WHERE?

The place of events in Egypt:

Location

Egypt: The events primarily unfolded in the land of Goshen, where the Israelites had initially settled (v. 10).

City Building: The Israelites were forced to construct store cities, such as Pithom and Raamses (v. 11).

Significance

Goshen: Once a prosperous region for the Israelites, it became a site of oppression (v. 11).

City Sites: These locations revealed Pharaoh's control through forced labour (v. 11).

Context of the events (Exod. 1:15-22)

The oppressive policies of Pharaoh were enforced throughout Egypt, particularly targeting the Hebrews (v. 15).

Decrees were issued from Pharaoh's palace, directing the Hebrew midwives (v. 16).

Pharaoh's orders were enforced in areas where the Hebrews lived, especially where the midwives worked (v. 19). The midwives operated in various locations where Hebrew women gave birth, as Pharaoh's decree specifically targeted new-born boys (v. 16).

The measures imposed by Pharaoh had a severe impact on the daily lives and families of the Hebrews throughout Egypt (v. 22).

5. WHEN DID THE OPPRESSION AND DECREE OCCUR?

. Time Frame

➤ Post-Joseph Era: The oppression began after Joseph's death and the rise of a new Pharaoh who did not know Joseph (v.8).

➤ During Pharaoh's Reign: The events unfolded during this new Pharaoh's reign, characterised by severe oppression (νν. 11-14).

➤ Historical Context: This period marks a drastic shift from the favour the Israelites enjoyed under Joseph to a time of harsh oppression.

When Was the Decree Made?

➤ The decree to enslave Israel was issued by Pharaoh to control their growing numbers and prevent alignment with Egypt's enemies, during a crucial period early in his reign (vv. 8-16).

6. HOW?

Methods and impact of oppression

Methods of Oppression: Pharaoh imposed harsh labour on the Israelites in construction and agriculture to break their spirit and increase their suffering (vv. 13-14).

Impact:

➤ The Israelites faced significant hardship and suffering (v. 14; cf. Jn. 16:33; Rom. 8:18; 1 Pet. 5:10).

➤ This oppression laid the groundwork for the dramatic Exodus and eventual liberation of the Israelites (12:31-32).

Implementation of the Decree: The midwives, fearing God, disobeyed Pharaoh's godless order and allowed the boys to live. What did they claim when questioned about their inability to do Pharaoh's order (1:16,17,19)?

Outcome:

➤ The decree failed as the number of Hebrew boys continued to grow (vv. 20-21).

➤ Pharaoh's actions led to increased suffering for the

Israelites (v. 22).

➤ God rewarded the midwives' bravery with families of their own, honouring those who stand up for righteousness (v. 21; cf. Dan. 3:16ff).

CONCLUSION AND APPLICATION

The Bible passage studied today reveals the shift from Israel's prosperity to oppression under a new Pharaoh. This highlights God's promise of deliverance and encourages trust in His justice and plans.

Reflections:

How can strengthening your faith and making prayer central to your life help you during challenging times? (Prov. 3:5-6; Rom. 8:28; Php. 4:6; Jas. 1:5)

What actions can you take to address social injustices and offer support to those in need? (Exo. 17:12; Isa. 1:17; Mic. 6:8; Heb. 10:24-25)

How can improving relationships and shining your light help you stay spiritually strong and positive? (Prov. 4:18; Matt. 5:14; Gal. 6:2; 1 Pet. 5:7)

How does knowing that God is aware of your struggles and living as one of His chosen people influence your actions and faith? (Rom. 8:28; Matt. 11:28-29; Jas. 4:8)

How can the story of Shiphrah and Puah inspire us to align with God's will and resist evil and what do we learn about the rewards for those who stand for righteousness?

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, grant me strength and trust to remain faithful in difficult times, finding comfort in Your plan.

2. Father, guide us in advocating for justice and supporting the oppressed, striving for a fairer society.

3. God, help us to support one another and remain faithful to You during hardships.

4. Lord, guide and deliver us from our challenges and any evil policies targeting our children.

5. Heavenly Father, protect Your Church from ungodly policies and help us act in reverence to You, aligning with Your will.

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