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Moses, Psalmist (Part 3)
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the Song of Moses recorded in Exodus 15, the destruction of Egypt is celebrated as a triumphant victory of God over Pharaoh and his army. The song, emerging from the context of the Red Sea crossing where the Egyptian army drowned, exalts God's power in delivering the Israelites through a miraculous act. It vividly describes how God's right hand dashed the enemy in pieces, His burning fury consumed them like stubble, and the blast of His nostrils parted the sea to form walls for Israel's passage. When the Israelites were safely through, God's breath pushed the waters back, covering and destroying the Egyptian army. The song captures the Egyptians' vengeful pursuit with their determined words to overtake and destroy, only to be proven wrong as God's power prevailed. Moses, in prophetic vision, foresees the terror and paralysis of fear among the nations along Israel's route, predicting their dread of following Egypt into total destruction. Through this song, the credit for the astounding miracle is undeniably given to God, showcasing His unmatched holiness, awe-inspiring nature, and ability to work wonders.
Did the Pharaoh of the Exodus Drown in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:28)?
Bible Questions & AnswersThe historical and biblical evidence indicates that the pharaoh of Egypt at the time of the Exodus, likely Amenhotep II, did not perish with his army while pursuing Israel. Psalm 136:15 states that God overthrew Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea, using the Hebrew word na'ar, which means to shake off, not to drown. This suggests that God shook off the Egyptians, including Pharaoh, from their pursuit of the Israelites, without specifying who was drowned. Exodus 14:28 notes that the waters covered all of Pharaoh's army, yet Pharaoh himself is not mentioned as being among them. Similarly, Exodus 15:19 recounts that the horses, chariots, and horsemen of Pharaoh went into the sea, and the LORD brought the waters upon them, but it does not state that Pharaoh or his personal horse drowned. The absence of a specific mention of Pharaoh's death is notable, as the deaths of enemy kings, even those less significant, are often clearly recorded in the Old Testament.
Psalms: Book One (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the narrative of the Israelites' exodus, Egypt faced utter destruction as a testament to God's supreme power. As the Israelites fled, trapped between the advancing Egyptian army and the Red Sea, God orchestrated their predicament to demonstrate His sovereignty. He hardened Pharaoh's heart, compelling him to pursue with his elite chariots and vast forces, only to meet annihilation. God declared He would gain honor over Pharaoh, proving who truly reigns as the great King and the true God, shattering the illusion of Pharaoh's divinity. When Pharaoh's army closed in, the Israelites trembled in fear, yet God, through Moses, assured their salvation. He wielded the sea as His instrument of judgment, parting it for Israel to cross on dry land while confounding the Egyptians. As the enemy pursued, God hindered their chariots, instilling terror and chaos. When they turned to flee, the waters crashed upon them from the west, drowning every soldier, chariot, and horse. None survived to report the catastrophe, a stark display of God's control, leaving Egypt's might shattered and its army obliterated at the Red Sea's edge. This decisive act affirmed God's omnipotence to Israel, showing He rules over nations, armies, and all creation. The complete devastation of Egypt's forces underscored that no power can withstand Him, establishing His unchallenged authority as the Almighty God.
Shouting Gleanings and Singing Olives (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles WhitakerIn the narrative of God's judgment and deliverance, the destruction of Egypt stands as a powerful historical event, reflecting a pattern of divine intervention. Egypt, characterized by abject idolatry, faced God's wrath as He judged its false gods, delivering His people from slavery. This act of destruction, detailed in the book of Exodus, signifies not just the fall of a powerful nation but the establishment of a theocratic people under God's rule. The Song of Moses in Exodus 15 commemorates this glorious deliverance, celebrating God's triumph over Egypt's army in the sea, an event that marks the founding of a nation under His kingship. This historical judgment on Egypt parallels the broader theme of God's power to destroy oppressive forces, ensuring the safety and redemption of His remnant, as seen in the prophetic visions of Isaiah's Apocalypse where worldwide civilizations face similar divine reckoning.
Lamentations (Part One; 1989)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAn introduction to the book of Lamentations, focusing on grim hardships (similar to Paul's perils) Christians may face in the future.
Escape From Box Canyon
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod forced Israel either to trust Him completely for deliverance or to return to their slavery. One of the greatest miracles in history has a lesson for us.
The Night to be Much Observed
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Night Much to be Observed is a memorial of the covenant with Abraham, and God's watchfulness in delivering ancient Israel as well as spiritual Israel.
The Divine Warrior
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughDivine warfare is not a relic of primitive religion, but instead a profound expression of God's sovereign authority and redemptive purpose throughout Scripture.
Are the Blood Moons Significant? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhen the lights in the heavens are darkened, it indicates that the time is up, and judgment is at hand. Something—such as a nation—is coming to an end.
The Proof of the Bible
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletWe live in an age of skepticism. Is the Bible superstition or authority? Did you ever stop to PROVE whether the Bible is the inspired Word of God?