Moses struggles with doubt when Pharaoh intensifies Israel’s oppression, but God reassures him that His covenant promises remain unshaken. Through hardship, God reveals His character and calls His people to trust Him rather than human authority. Exodus teaches that faith means relying on God’s sovereignty, even when circumstances seem impossible. Our study will follow the outline below:

1. Pharaoh’s Defiance and Israel's Oppression (5:1-21)
2. Moses’ Doubt and God’s Assurance (5:22-6:5)

Pharaoh defies God’s command to release Israel, intensifies their oppression by demanding brick-making without straw, and manipulates their suffering to turn them against Moses, revealing a battle of lordship—whether Israel will serve Pharaoh or trust in God’s deliverance.

In Chapter 5:22-6:5, we see Moses overwhelmed by Israel’s worsening oppression, questions God’s plan, but the Lord reassures him that His covenant remains firm and deliverance is certain. God reminds Moses of His unchanging nature and His faithfulness to His promises, revealing Himself as Yahweh—the sovereign Lord who hears His people’s cries. Even when circumstances seem discouraging, God’s promises stand, and He calls His people to trust in His timing and power rather than their own understanding.

Getting Started                                                        

1. Imagine you’re Moses reporting to Pharaoh for your first big confrontation. If you could have one superpower (besides trusting in God, of course), what would it be to help convince Pharaoh to let Israel go?

•     Read Exodus 5:1-6:5

2. What insight, principle, or observation from Sunday’s sermon did you find to be the most helpful, eye-opening, or convicting?

Digging Deeper

3. What were the immediate consequences of Pharaoh rejecting Moses and Aaron’s request in Exodus 5:1-4? 

4. How does Israel’s cry to Pharaoh in Exodus 5:15 differ from their earlier cry to God in Exodus 2:23?   

5. What does it mean when God says He has “remembered” His covenant in Ex.6:4-5? 

The Heart of the Matter

6. How does the battle for Israel’s worship in Exodus 5 relate to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:24 (“No one can serve two masters”)? 

7. Moses obeyed God by confronting Pharaoh, yet instead of immediate deliverance, Israel’s suffering increased. How do we respond when obedience to God leads to hardship? 

8. God reassures Moses by declaring, “I am the LORD,” reminding him of His covenant faithfulness. How does knowing God’s character strengthen our faith? What promises of God do you need to hold onto in your current situation?