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Exodus – Lesson 4.The Plagues | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series EXODUS with Pastor Mark Finley
Lesson 4.The Plagues
God’s Power in the Battle Against False Gods
Lesson 4 takes us deep into the dramatic conflict between the living God and the gods of Egypt. The ten plagues were not mere natural disasters, but targeted revelations of divine power over human arrogance and religious deception. Each plague struck the Egyptians where they felt most secure—in their gods, their king, and their economy. God demonstrated that He alone is Lord over life, nature, and history. It wasn’t only about punishment—it was also about revelation and the opportunity for repentance. This lesson challenges us to identify the “gods” in our own lives and to worship God as the one true Lord.
Content:
4.1 God vs. gods
The True King – God’s Power Over All False Gods
The first confrontation between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt was not just a power struggle, but a divine judgment on religious deception. When Aaron’s staff turned into a serpent and devoured the serpents of the Egyptian magicians, the superiority of the living God was made evident. God publicly challenged Pharaoh’s authority and Egypt’s entire religious system. Aaron’s staff symbolized that it is not Pharaoh who rules, but the LORD. This first display of power directly attacked belief in magic and idolatry. Today, God still calls us to place all our modern “gods”—such as power, wealth, and fear—under His authority.
4.2 Who Hardened Pharaoh’s Heart?
A Hardened Heart – Choosing Against God’s Grace
The Bible clearly shows that Pharaoh initially hardened his own heart before God confirmed and strengthened that choice. God’s actions were not arbitrary; they were a response to Pharaoh’s persistent resistance. The plagues were opportunities for repentance—but Pharaoh consciously chose to reject the truth. God’s judgment often means letting people follow their own path without His restraining grace. This reveals both the power of divine grace and the serious weight of human responsibility. Like Pharaoh, we also face daily choices that either soften our hearts to God’s voice or harden them through pride.
4.3 The First Three Plagues
God Exposes the Gods of Egypt – Three Plagues, Three Revelations
The first three plagues revealed the powerlessness of Egypt’s gods—Hapi, Heket, and Geb—over water, fertility, and the earth. None could give life or stop the disasters. Through these plagues, God revealed Himself not only to Pharaoh but also to His own people. They were not just acts of judgment, but signs pointing to divine truth and an invitation to know God. Even the magicians acknowledged God’s power, but Pharaoh remained stubborn. This shows the danger of repeatedly ignoring God’s voice—every refusal makes the heart harder.
4.4 Flies, Livestock, and Boils
Gods Fall – God Remains
With the plagues of gnats, livestock disease, and boils, God again exposed the helplessness of Egypt’s deities. Goddesses like Uatchit, Hathor, and Isis failed to protect their followers. In contrast, the Israelites were spared—clearly showing God’s presence and care. Despite mounting pressure and overwhelming evidence, Pharaoh’s heart remained hard. The issue wasn’t lack of evidence—it was a refusal to humble himself. This episode warns us: a stubborn heart can reject even the clearest truth. That’s why we must keep our hearts open to God’s voice.
4.5 Hail, Locusts, and Darkness
God’s Power Breaks Through All Darkness
The final three plagues struck at the core of Egypt’s religion and pride. Gods like Nut, Osiris, Seth, and Ra could neither protect nor provide light. Though Pharaoh wavered, pride overcame reason. God made it clear that He alone controls the elements, light, and life. The separation between Israel’s light and Egypt’s darkness was a visible sign of God’s justice and mercy. Despite the suffering, Pharaoh refused to submit to God’s will—possibly out of sheer pride. The story powerfully illustrates the truth: “Pride goes before destruction” (Proverbs 16:18).
4.6 Summary
God Reveals Himself as Lord Over All Gods
In Lesson 4, the ten plagues reveal God’s judgment not only over Egypt but especially over its false gods. Each plague exposed the inability of Egypt’s deities and highlighted God’s sovereignty. Repeatedly, God revealed Himself to invite repentance—from Pharaoh and from His people. But Pharaoh’s pride continued to harden his heart until he fully resisted God’s will. The lesson shows us: God’s patience is great, but not limitless. Those who persistently reject His call ultimately choose judgment over grace.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/exodus-lesson-4-the-plagues-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Exodus – Lesson 3.Rough Start | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series EXODUS with Pastor Mark Finley
Lesson 3.Rough Start
Calling Amid Resistance – God’s ways are not always easy, but they are certain
Lesson three explores the difficult beginning of Moses’ mission to free Israel from slavery. Despite clear instructions from God, Moses is immediately met with rejection—by Pharaoh and even his own people. What began with hope quickly turns into frustration. Moses doubts, complains to God, and feels overwhelmed. But it is precisely in this tension that God begins to reveal His power and faithfulness. The lesson reminds us: even when walking with God is challenging, we can trust that He will lead us to a good end.
Content:
3.1 Who Is the LORD?
When human pride challenges divine authority
Pharaoh’s reaction reveals a deep spirit of resistance against God—not out of ignorance but conscious defiance. By asking, “Who is the LORD?”, he places himself above divine authority and exposes the core of human rebellion. This attitude is not limited to ancient Egypt; it persists today in systems and hearts that ignore or fight against God. Yet God’s response to rejection is not revenge, but revelation: He reveals Himself through patience, grace, and power. To know the LORD is to know that He is holy, faithful, gracious, and just—a God who saves and liberates. Knowing Him changes everything—it turns slaves into free people.
3.2 A Rough Start
When deliverance starts with setbacks
Moses and Aaron obeyed God’s command, but instead of freedom, more suffering followed. The Israelites were disappointed, their hopes were crushed, and they blamed Moses and Aaron. These setbacks show that God’s ways are often not linear—even faith has its crises. For Moses, this was an early taste of the challenges of spiritual leadership. But in these moments, leaders learn to develop patience, humility, and trust in God. We, too, should be gracious with our leaders—especially when the way is hard and progress is invisible.
3.3 The Divine “I”
Despair meets promise – when God answers our complaint
Moses is deeply discouraged—rejection and increased suffering have replaced hope. His honest complaint to God shows that even great men of faith wrestle with God’s ways. But God doesn’t rebuke him. Instead, He reminds Moses of His promises and faithfulness with powerful “I will” statements. These assurances show that lament is acceptable when it comes from trust and hope. God does not ignore our pain—He hears, acts, and leads us to His goal.
3.4 Uncircumcised Lips
When discouragement closes ears – God’s promise still stands
Despite God’s powerful promises, Moses couldn’t reach the people—their discouragement was too deep. Pain, frustration, and unmet expectations had hardened their hearts. Moses once again felt unfit, a “man of uncircumcised lips.” But God’s plan did not depend on the people’s mood or Moses’ ability—it rested on God’s faithfulness. In times of weakness and doubt, it’s crucial to hold on to God’s promises—even when they’re not yet visible. The covenant formula “I will be your God” reminds us: our relationship with Him carries us, even when our strength fails.
3.5 Like God to Pharaoh
God equips those He calls – even in spite of excuses
Moses still felt unfit and again voiced his doubts. But God’s patience is great: He takes Moses’ objections seriously, gives him Aaron as a helper, and explains his role—as God’s mouthpiece. Thus, God gives Moses dignity and authority, despite his weakness. At the same time, God warns of Pharaoh’s hard heart but makes it clear that His power will be revealed in the end. This passage shows: God doesn’t expect perfection, but trust. Our excuses may be understandable—but God calls us anyway and equips us to fulfill His will.
3.6 Summary
When the beginning is difficult – God’s plan endures
In lesson 3, we see a discouraged Moses, a defiant Pharaoh, and a disappointed people. God’s command was clear, but the path began with difficulty: Pharaoh rejected God’s authority, and the people responded with frustration rather than faith. Moses himself doubted his calling and poured out his grief to God. But God responded with powerful promises and renewed affirmation of His faithfulness. This lesson shows: even when the beginning is full of setbacks, God continues His work—patiently, resolutely, and faithfully.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/exodus-lesson-3-rough-start-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Exodus – Lesson 2.The Burning Bush | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series EXODUS with Pastor Mark Finley
Lesson 2.The Burning Bush
God Encounters – Moses at the Burning Bush
Lesson 2 brings us to a crucial turning point in Moses’ life. In the solitude of the wilderness, he encounters God in an unexpected way – in a burning bush that is not consumed. This holy appearance is more than a miracle: it is the beginning of God’s active intervention to deliver Israel. Moses is called to stand before Pharaoh with divine authority, even though he feels weak and unqualified. But God reveals His name, His nearness, and His plan. The lesson shows us how God calls ordinary people in their weakness – and equips and sends them with His Spirit.
Content:
2.1 The Burning Bush
God Meets Moses: The Burning Bush as a Turning Point of Calling
The burning bush marks a sacred turning point in Moses’ life. After 40 years in the solitude of Midian, he encounters God in a supernatural way – not with power, but in a humble thorn bush that is not consumed. This appearance shows that God works through weakness and simplicity, yet with holy authority. As Moses removes his sandals, his journey from shepherd to Israel’s deliverer begins. God’s self-introduction as “the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” reminds Moses of the enduring validity of the promises. This scene teaches us: calling takes time – and God often forms His instruments in secret before using them publicly.
2.2 The Angel of the Lord
The Angel of the Lord – Jesus as the Divine Messenger of Deliverance
In the appearance of “the Angel of the Lord,” no one less than Christ Himself is revealed – speaking to Moses from the burning bush. The term “angel” here does not refer to a created being, but to the divine Messenger who is God Himself. This encounter reveals not only God’s presence but also His compassion: He sees His people’s suffering and intervenes personally. Moses is entrusted with an overwhelming task – the deliverance of Israel. His reaction, “Who am I?” shows deep humility and self-doubt, but also reverence for the divine call. God uses precisely such humble hearts because they rely not on themselves but on His power.
2.3 The Name of the Lord
“I Am Who I Am” – God’s Name as a Revelation of His Presence
Moses asks for God’s name because he wants to know who is sending him – and what he should say to the people. God’s answer “I Am Who I Am” reveals more than a name: it shows God’s eternal presence, reliability, and closeness. “Yahweh” not only means that God exists, but that He is personally involved in the lives of His people. This name stands for God’s faithfulness in the covenant and His care for the suffering. It becomes clear to Moses: the God of the patriarchs is still the same – alive and active today. To call upon the name of the Lord means trusting not a distant deity, but a God who lives among His people.
2.4 Four Excuses
Four Excuses – and God’s Patient Calling
Despite God’s direct call, Moses tried to avoid his responsibility with four excuses. He felt unworthy, feared rejection, doubted his impact, and saw himself as a poor speaker. But God did not respond with anger – instead, He gave reassurance, signs, and support, revealing His patience and care. God’s calling is not directed at the most capable, but at those willing to be equipped by Him. Aaron was given as a concrete helper, but the mission remained Moses’. We, too, may bring our weaknesses honestly before God – and experience how He reveals His strength right there.
2.5 The Circumcision
Obedience Under the Covenant – The Serious Lesson of Circumcision
The incident with the neglected circumcision shows how seriously God takes obedience and covenant faithfulness – especially for someone like Moses, called to lead. Although Moses obeyed the divine call, he had neglected a known duty, which made him vulnerable. God could not use him as Israel’s spiritual leader while he was inconsistent himself. Zipporah’s decisive intervention saved Moses’ life, but it also revealed the urgency of not delaying God’s clear commands. This dramatic scene shows: God is merciful, but also holy – and negligence can be dangerous. If we know what is right but hesitate to do it, God lovingly yet firmly calls us to turn and act.
2.6 Summary
God’s Call from the Fire – Calling, Name, and Mission
In Lesson 2, we meet Moses at the burning bush – a sacred moment when God personally calls him. After 40 years in the wilderness, God reveals Himself as the “I Am” – eternal, faithful, and present. He commissions Moses to lead Israel out of Egypt, despite Moses’ doubts and excuses. God responds to his objections with patience, power, and promises – and even sends Aaron as help. God’s name “Yahweh” shows that He is a covenant God who acts in love. The lesson reminds us: God calls ordinary people with humble hearts to extraordinary tasks – and equips them fully.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/exodus-lesson-2-the-burning-bush-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Exodus – Lesson 1.Oppression: The Background and the Birth of Moses | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series EXODUS with Pastor Mark Finley
Lesson 1.Oppression: The Background and the Birth of Moses
From Blessing to Slavery: God at Work in Difficult Times
The first lesson takes us to the beginning of the book of Exodus, where we witness Israel’s transition from a time of great blessing to the harsh reality of oppression. What began with rescue through Joseph ends under a new Pharaoh in fear, suffering, and slavery. Yet even in this dark time, God’s presence remains evident—through courageous individuals like the midwives and His unseen guidance. The birth of Moses marks the beginning of a great plan of deliverance, even though the circumstances appear hopeless. This lesson reminds us that God is still at work, even when we don’t immediately perceive Him. His plan continues—despite the shadow of oppression.
1.1 God’s People in Egypt
From Blessing to Oppression: God’s People Under Foreign Rule
The book of Exodus begins with a reflection on God’s blessing over the descendants of Jacob, who greatly multiplied in Egypt. But this blessing was soon overshadowed by a new political regime—a king who didn’t know Joseph and felt threatened, leading to the oppression of the people. This turn of events reminds us that favorable circumstances are never guaranteed and should not be taken for granted. Despite severe oppression, the people continued to grow—a sign of God’s abiding presence and faithfulness. The story shows that God works even through suffering and fulfills His promises—even amid human injustice. The beginning of Exodus is a testimony that God’s plan is greater than human schemes.
1.2 The Historical Background
God’s Faithfulness in History: From Joseph’s Rise to Israel’s Oppression
Israel’s story in Egypt begins with God’s guidance and Joseph’s remarkable rise, which ultimately saved many lives. But with the change in Egypt’s leadership, the situation turned, and God’s people fell under heavy oppression. Despite changing political circumstances, one thing remained constant: God’s work behind the scenes. He never forgot His people, not even in times of slavery and hardship. The historical developments show that God continues to act even through political and social upheaval. The story reminds us that God’s plan moves forward faithfully—even through human power struggles.
1.3 The Hebrew Midwives
Courage for Truth: Faithful Women Against the King’s Decree
The two midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, represent quiet but powerful resistance against injustice. Although they disobeyed the command of the powerful Pharaoh, they acted out of reverence for God and saved many children from death. Their names are remembered to this day, while the Pharaoh’s name is forgotten—a sign of whom God honors. In a time of darkness, they were bearers of light through their determination to do what was right. Their example teaches us that true courage means fearing God more than people. Even simple acts of faith can have lasting consequences—for history and for the kingdom of God.
1.4 Moses Is Born
A Child of Hope: God’s Plan Begins in Secret
The birth of Moses occurred under life-threatening circumstances, yet God’s providence and protection were clearly evident. Not only was Moses saved, but he was also taken in and raised by the household of the enemy—a divine act of irony and grace. His mother was allowed to nurse and influence him, even though he officially belonged to the Egyptian princess. The term tov (“good”) reveals that God had great plans for him—even in seemingly hopeless conditions. Moses is a sign that God prepares a deliverer in the midst of chaos. His story reminds us that God’s plans often begin in secret—but they never fail.
1.5 A Change of Plan
When Plans Fail: God’s Way Often Begins Where Ours Ends
Moses’ killing of the Egyptian suddenly changed the course of his life—from heir to the throne to fugitive. Though his action wasn’t God’s will, the story shows that God can use even our failures to fulfill His greater purpose. In the wilderness of Midian, Moses wasn’t discarded but shaped—far from Egypt’s splendor and closer to God’s presence. The former prince had to learn humility and dependence before becoming an instrument of deliverance. God’s ways are not our ways, yet they are good and purposeful. Romans 8:28 reminds us: Even detours and failures can be part of His greater plan.
1.6 Summary
God’s Plan in the Shadow of Oppression
Lesson 1 traces Israel’s journey from a blessed settlement in Egypt to brutal enslavement under a new Pharaoh. Despite harsh oppression, the people continued to grow—a sign of God’s ongoing faithfulness. In the midst of suffering, courageous women like the Hebrew midwives resisted evil and saved lives. The birth of Moses—a “good” child—occurred under threat of death, yet God’s protection and providence were clearly at work. Moses was raised in the house of the enemy but fled to Midian after a fateful mistake, where God continued to prepare him. This lesson shows: Even in darkness and upheaval, God’s plan remains alive—and He prepares deliverers long before we recognize them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/exodus-lesson-1-oppression-the-background-and-the-birth-of-moses-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Allusions, Images, Symbols – Lesson 13.Images of the End | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS with Pastor Mark Finley
Lesson 13.Images of the End
Prophetic Images – Signposts for the End Times
Lesson 13 takes us on a symbolic journey through biblical stories that are far more than historical records – they carry prophetic meaning for the end times. Characters such as Jonah, Belshazzar, and Cyrus, as well as events like the fall of Babylon, serve as foreshadowings of what is yet to come. In these stories, God reveals not only judgment but also His grace and willingness to save. These images are meant to awaken us, encourage us, and call us to make a decision for Christ. In a world full of spiritual confusion, it is essential to pay attention to God’s Word and interpret the signs of the times correctly. Those who learn from the past are prepared for what lies ahead.
Content:
13.1 The Reluctant Prophet
Jonah – A Reflection of God’s End-Time Messengers
Jonah was a reluctant prophet – and in that, he reflects many Christians today. His story shows how God patiently and purposefully shapes His messengers, even when they hesitate or run away. Jesus Himself referred to Jonah as a sign pointing to His own death and resurrection, giving the gospel its deepest meaning. Especially noteworthy is Jonah’s confession of the Creator God – a theme echoed in the first angel’s message in Revelation. Like Jonah, we are called today to proclaim a message of repentance – often against resistance. Yet God’s mission remains: Call people to turn back, even when it’s uncomfortable.
13.2 A Work of Repentance
Repentance Changes the Outcome – Even in the End Times
Jonah’s message was clear and uncompromising: Nineveh faced judgment. But the people’s response – sincere repentance and turning from evil – completely changed the outcome. This shows that God’s judgment is not arbitrary, but responsive to human decisions. In the end times as well, there will be people who heed God’s call and are spared. However, not all prophecies are conditional – some, like Christ’s return or the plagues, will be fulfilled without exception. The decisions we make today reveal whether we will be ready when the final events unfold.
13.3 Belshazzar’s Feast
Belshazzar – Knowledge Alone Does Not Prevent the Fall if the Heart Remains Proud
Belshazzar’s feast was more than a decadent act – it was a deliberate provocation against the God of heaven. Despite knowing his grandfather Nebuchadnezzar’s story and spiritual transformation, Belshazzar ignored the warnings. His greatest guilt was not ignorance, but willful contempt. He knew better – yet he did not humble himself. In the end times, it will be similar: Many will recognize the truth, but it is the heart that determines whether they turn to God or reject Him. Spiritual insight must be coupled with a humble heart – otherwise, it leads not to salvation, but to judgment.
13.4 The Drying of the Euphrates
When the River Runs Dry – The Fall of Babylon Is Near
The fall of ancient Babylon was both sudden and symbolic: the Euphrates, once a source of security, became a pathway for enemy invasion. Revelation 16 picks up this image prophetically – the “drying up of the Euphrates” signals the fall of end-time Babylon. The parallels are striking: indifference, celebration, and spiritual blindness once led – and will again lead – to sudden judgment. Yet even within these grim scenes shines a promise: “Behold, I come as a thief… Blessed is the one who stays awake.” (Rev. 16:15) Those who remain spiritually alert and clothed in Christ’s righteousness will not be caught off guard. The choice lies with each of us – now.
13.5 Cyrus, the Anointed
Cyrus – A Pagan King as a Foreshadowing of the Redeemer
Cyrus was not an Israelite, yet God used him to free His people – a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty over history. As the “anointed one” (Isa. 45:1), Cyrus prophetically prefigures Christ, who will also defeat Babylon and ultimately liberate His people. Cyrus’s decree not only initiated the rebuilding of the temple but also helped shape salvation history leading to the birth of Jesus. Like with Cyrus, we see that God often uses unexpected people to fulfill His promises. This strengthens our confidence that the final prophetic scenes will certainly unfold. Cyrus’s story reminds us: God is in control – even when His ways seem hidden.
13.6 Summary
Warning, Grace, and Hope – Lessons from the Past for the End Time
Lesson 13 uses vivid Old Testament imagery to show how seriously God takes His warnings – and how great His grace is. Jonah, Belshazzar, Babylon, and Cyrus symbolically represent spiritual realities of the end times. While God stirred Nineveh to repentance, Belshazzar’s pride led to judgment. The drying up of the Euphrates points prophetically to the fall of modern Babylon, while Cyrus foreshadows Christ as the ultimate liberator. This lesson emphasizes that our decisions today determine on which side we will stand when the final events take place. God’s call to repentance is still open – and His promise of deliverance remains sure.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/allusions-images-symbols-lesson-13-images-of-the-end-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

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