Exodus 1: Pharoah Begins Hebrew Oppression

I. Introduction: An Insight into Faith and Deliverance
Exodus 1 presents an inspirational journey of faith, demonstrating God’s mighty power to deliver His people from bondage. This chapter sets the stage for the epic narrative of the Israelites’ liberation from Egyptian slavery, an absolute testament to God’s sovereignty and human resilience.

II. Multiplication of the Israelites (Exodus 1:1-7)
The Israelites, initially entering Egypt as a small group, witnessed a significant increase in their population over time (Exodus 1:7). The rapid growth of the Israelites signifies God’s faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham to multiply his descendants (Genesis 15:5).

III. Fear and Oppression of the Israelites (Exodus 1:8-14)
A new Pharaoh, who was unaware of Joseph’s pivotal role in Egypt, perceived the Israelites as a threat to his kingdom and enslaved them (Exodus 1:8-11). The exploitation and oppression they faced echo several instances in the Bible where God’s people suffered yet were delivered through His divine intervention (Psalms 34:19).

IV. The Midwives’ Fear of God (Exodus 1:15-21)
Shiphrah and Puah, Hebrew midwives, chose to fear God over the edict of Pharaoh, thereby preserving the lives of the Hebrew babies (Exodus 1:17). Their courage parallels the boldness of individuals throughout Scripture who defied human authority in obedience to God, such as Daniel (Daniel 6:10) and Peter and John (Acts 4:19).

V. Pharaoh’s Command to Kill the Male Babies (Exodus 1:22)
Pharaoh’s decree to kill all newborn Hebrew boys in order to control the growing population echoes Herod’s edict to kill infants in Bethlehem during Jesus’ birth (Matthew 2:16). Both instances illustrate the lengths oppressive powers will go to maintain their rule, but both ultimately failed due to God’s providence and divine protection.

VI. Conclusion: Exodus 1 paints a vivid picture of suffering, faith, and the beginnings of deliverance. The chapter marks the start of an inspiring journey that attests to God’s faithfulness, His power to deliver, and His ability to turn trials into triumphs. Centuries later, we find solace and hope in this narrative, a timeless reminder that even in the darkest hours, God is present, working His purpose out in ways beyond our comprehension. The story of Exodus encourages us to hold unswervingly to our faith, knowing that our God is a God of deliverance (Psalm 34:17).