Kingdom Foreshadowed Part 2 with Discussion Guide

Kingdom Foreshadowed Part 2 Discussion Guide

1 Title

“Who is the Lord? Understanding God’s Sovereignty Through the Plagues”

2 Summary

In this sermon, we explore the ten plagues of Egypt as a response to Pharaoh’s question, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him?” Each plague serves as a demonstration of God’s power over the false gods of Egypt, revealing Him as the one true God. The plagues also symbolize a reversal from order to chaos, reminiscent of the creation narrative in Genesis, highlighting the consequences of rejecting God’s authority. Furthermore, the plagues foreshadow the ultimate act of salvation through Jesus Christ, who on the cross took upon Himself the judgment meant for humanity, offering a way back to God.

3 Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather today to delve into Your Word and the lessons from the sermon, we ask for Your guidance. Open our hearts and minds to the truths You want us to grasp, and help us to see Your sovereignty and love even in the midst of judgment. May our discussion be fruitful and draw us closer to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

4 Ice Breaker

What is one of your favorite childhood memories?

5 Key Verses

• Exodus 7:17 (NIV): “This is what the Lord says: By this you will know that I am the Lord: With the staff that is in my hand I will strike the water of the Nile, and it will be changed into blood.”
• Exodus 9:14 (NIV): “or this time I will send the full force of my plagues against you and against your officials and your people, so you may know that there is no one like me in all the earth.”

6 Questions

1. How did Pharaoh’s question, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him?” set the stage for the plagues?
2. In what ways do the plagues demonstrate God’s power over the Egyptian gods?
3. How do the plagues reflect the reversal of creation from order to chaos?
4. Can you identify moments in your life where God has shown His sovereignty in a powerful way?
5. How do the plagues point us to the ultimate salvation found in Jesus Christ?
6. What does the response of the Egyptians to the plagues teach us about the importance of heeding God’s warnings?
7. How can we reconcile the God of the plagues with the God of love we know through Jesus?
8. How does understanding the purpose behind the plagues change your perspective on God’s character?

7 Life Application

This week, let’s challenge ourselves to recognize and turn away from any “little gods” we may be inadvertently placing before the one true God. Whether it’s material possessions, status, or personal desires, let’s commit to seeking God first in all aspects of our lives.

8 Key Takeaways

Title: God’s Sovereignty Over False Gods
The plagues were a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods, showcasing God’s supreme power. Each plague targeted a specific deity worshipped by the Egyptians, proving that the Lord is the one true God above all.

Title: The Consequences of Rejecting God
The progression of the plagues from the Nile to darkness illustrates the descent into chaos that occurs when humanity rejects God’s authority. It serves as a reminder that life apart from God leads to disorder and destruction.

Title: The Plagues as a Foreshadowing of Salvation
The plagues, particularly the darkness and the death of the firstborn, point to the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Through His death, Jesus took upon Himself the judgment and chaos of sin, offering us redemption and a return to order.

Title: The Importance of Heeding God’s Word
The Egyptians who listened to God’s warnings were spared from some effects of the plagues. This teaches us the importance of obedience to God’s Word and the protection it offers.

Title: God’s Desire for Relationship
Despite the severity of the plagues, God’s ultimate desire was not destruction but to bring people into relationship with Him. The plagues were a means to demonstrate His power and to call people back to Himself.

9 Ending Prayer

Lord, as we close our time together, we thank You for the insights we’ve gained from the sermon and our discussion. Help us to carry these lessons into our daily lives, to honor You as the one true God, and to live in the light of Your salvation. May we be a testament to Your love and grace in a world that often questions Your sovereignty. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.