Timely lessons from the Book of Exodus

In the preface to this book the writer states his belief in the historical accuracy of events recorded in the book of Exodus and that this divine record ‘lays a solid foundation for understanding what it means to be associated with God’s people’. The author rightly says that while the church is not a substitute for Israel we can learn much from Israel’s experiences, lessons concerning salvation, sanctification and service. Consistent with that, the book contains a good balance between gospel appeals and teaching for believers.

As the title suggests, this is not an exhaustive commentary on the book of Exodus, the main focus being on the actual journey of the children of Israel rather than upon all the associated events. In consequence, there are sections of Exodus that are passed over with either very brief comment or no comment at all, for example, the writer moves from the call of Moses straight to the Passover with virtually no mention of the plagues that God brought on the land of Egypt. Likewise, there is very little on the latter chapters of Exodus concerning the Tabernacle, though what is said is instructive. The sixteen chapters are brief and very readable and the author takes every opportunity to press home truth concerning principles relative to assembly gatherings.

While some seem to neglect the teaching of the Old Testament, as though it has little relevance for today, the author is to be commended for his lucid, practical and profitable teaching. The book will especially benefit those young in the faith and also clearly demonstrate how the experiences of Israel in the past have a parallel in the pathway of God’s people today.

[Our thanks to Richard Catchpole, South Norwood, London, UK, for this review]