Exodus: Moses and the Call Narrative

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Questions and Answers

Explain how keeping the first three commandments demonstrates a relationship between humanity and God.

By prioritizing love, worship, and sacred observances towards God, individuals acknowledge His divinity and their dependence on Him, fostering a relationship built on reverence and gratitude.

Why did the Israelites face oppression in Egypt after Joseph's death, despite Joseph's past contributions?

The Egyptians forgot Joseph’s services as time passed, and they grew wary of the increasing number of Israelites.

How does adherence to the commandment against taking the Lord’s name in vain promote a more respectful society?

Respecting God's name encourages reverence in speech and thought, leading to greater respect for sacred things and, by extension, for others in society.

Describe the initial interaction between Moses and the Pharaoh when Moses requested the freedom of the Israelite people.

<p>Moses presented God's request to the Pharaoh, but the Pharaoh refused to let the Israelites go.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe a specific action, not explicitly mentioned in the text, that would violate the spirit of the third commandment.

<p>Consistently prioritizing personal entertainment or errands over attending religious services without a valid reason or neglecting personal prayer and spiritual reflection on Sundays and holy days.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how avoiding polytheism and idolatry strengthens one's love for God.

<p>By focusing worship and devotion on one God, individuals avoid diluting their faith and commitment, thus fostering a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the Pharaoh's reaction to Moses' request affected the Israelites and what was Moses' response to their suffering?

<p>The Pharaoh worsened their treatment. The people complained to Moses and Aaron, who then relayed these complaints to God.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the signs given to Moses and the plagues sent to Egypt, according to the text?

<p>The sign was to prove Moses was sent by God, and the plagues were intended to convince the Pharaoh to free the Israelites.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can viewing Sunday as merely a day off undermine the value of keeping the Lord's Day holy?

<p>It reduces the day to leisure only, disregarding its intended purpose for worship, reflection, and spiritual connection with God and the community.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How could using God's name to justify a crime be a violation of both the first and second commandments?

<p>It violates the first commandment by creating a false idol of one's own desires above God. It violates the second commandment by misusing God's name and associating it with evil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the significance of the Passover meal and its instructions to the Israelites before their departure.

<p>The Passover meal signified belonging to God's people and ensured they would be spared. It was to be eaten in readiness for their journey to freedom.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did the Pharaoh pursue the Israelites after initially letting them go, and what was the Israelites' reaction when they were cornered?

<p>The Pharaoh changed his mind. The Israelites complained to Moses when they were trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain why keeping sacred traditions and observances, like attending mass, is essential for nurturing one's faith.

<p>Participating in these traditions reinforces one's connection to the community of believers, provides opportunities for spiritual growth, and helps internalize the values and teachings of the faith.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does a false oath undermine trust and respect for God?

<p>A false oath breaks a sacred promise made in God's name, demonstrating a lack of reverence and a disregard for truth, which erodes trust in both human relationships and the divine.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Summarize the role of Moses in the liberation of the Israelites, based on the events described in the text.

<p>Moses acted as God's messenger, conveying requests to the Pharaoh, relaying the people's complaints to God, and leading them out of Egypt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the concept of 'remembrance' is embedded within the Passover tradition, and why this is important for the Israelites.

<p>The Passover meal is a memorial feast reminding future generations of God’s saving act, reinforcing their identity and faith.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the principle of 'respect for what belongs to others' from the 7th commandment extend beyond just physical possessions?

<p>It includes respecting intellectual property, ideas, and the time and effort of others. It extends to intangible assets like copyrights or patents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how 'active participation in the promotion of social justice' relates to the 7th and 8th commandments?

<p>Promoting social justice ensures fair distribution of resources and opportunities (7th) and truthfully advocating for the marginalized (8th), combating falsehoods that perpetuate injustice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe a scenario where 'responsible use of all natural resources' demonstrates adherence to multiple commandments?

<p>Preventing pollution respects the well-being of others (neighbor), avoids stealing resources from future generations (stealing), and promotes honesty about environmental impact (false witness).</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can making inappropriate jokes be related to the 8th commandment?

<p>Inappropriate jokes can damage someone's reputation, spread false or malicious information, and disrespect the dignity of the person being ridiculed, violating the principle against bearing false witness and the respect for the good reputation of others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might taking credit for something you didn’t do violate both the 7th and 8th commandments?

<p>Taking undeserved credit involves stealing someone else's work or ideas (7th) while also bearing false witness about one's own abilities or contributions (8th).</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the story of Moses demonstrates God's concern for the oppressed and vulnerable.

<p>God hears the cry of the oppressed, as illustrated in the story of Moses. He acts to save them from their oppressors, demonstrating his care and protection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of 'preferential option for the poor' challenge societal norms and promote justice?

<p>It challenges norms by prioritizing the needs of the vulnerable, forcing consideration of the impact of decisions on the marginalized, and testing the justice of society through their experiences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the Ten Commandments, what does it mean to say they are 'summaries of the things that people want for themselves?'

<p>It means the commandments reflect fundamental human desires for a just and harmonious society, such as respect, safety, and truth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of a modern-day scenario where a natural event or element serves to protect or save people, mirroring the biblical story of the parted sea.

<p>Early warning systems and disaster preparedness efforts that enable communities to evacuate before a hurricane, thus saving lives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can a person apply the concept of 'preferential option for the poor' in their daily life?

<p>By consciously making choices that benefit the less fortunate, such as supporting fair trade, donating to reputable charities, or advocating for policies that address inequality.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the Ten Commandments provide a basis for creating a just society, and what role does individual responsibility play in upholding them?

<p>They provide clear moral guidelines for interpersonal interactions, and individual responsibility involves actively choosing to adhere to these principles in daily life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The story of Moses includes the line, 'God chooses unlikely people to be instruments of his saving actions'. What implications does this have for how we view leadership and service in our communities today?

<p>It suggests that leadership and service are not limited to those with traditional power or status. Everyone has the potential to contribute meaningfully.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Connect the idea of 'God does not forget His people' with the concept of hope. How can this message provide solace in challenging times?

<p>This message provides solace by instilling the belief that even in the most difficult situations, one is not abandoned; divine help and solutions are always possible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt set the stage for the central events in the Exodus narrative?

<p>The enslavement creates the need for a deliverer, setting the narrative in motion towards Moses's calling and the eventual exodus to freedom.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the significance of Pharaoh's decree to cast Hebrew sons into the Nile River. What did this event foreshadow?

<p>The decree aimed to control the Israelite population and foreshadowed the themes of persecution and survival, ultimately leading to Moses's miraculous escape.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the Fourth Commandment extends beyond our relationship with our parents to include other figures of authority. Provide an example of how this broader application manifests in everyday life.

<p>The Fourth Commandment extends to all authority figures who contribute to our well-being and guide us, such as teachers, employers, and government officials. An example is respecting and following school rules set by teachers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify the five elements of a Call Narrative and briefly explain how each element is present in the story of Moses's calling in Exodus Chapter 3.

<p>The five elements are: (1) Theophany, (2) Giving of Mission, (3) Objection, (4) Reassurance/Sign, and (5) Acceptance. Each is present in Exodus Ch. 3, such as the burning bush (Theophany) or God telling Moses what he needs to do (Giving of Mission), Moses saying he is inadequate (Objection), and God saying He will be with Moses representing the Reassurance/Sign.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is Moses's objection to the mission important in the Call Narrative? What deeper meaning does it convey?

<p>Moses's objection emphasizes that the mission originates from God's will, not his own. He is a reluctant participant at first, but God insists.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Fifth Commandment states, 'You shall not kill.' How does this commandment apply to actions beyond the literal act of taking a life? Give an example.

<p>Beyond physical killing, it encompasses actions that harm or endanger another person's physical, emotional, or spiritual well-being. Bullying, which can inflict severe emotional distress, is one example.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the Sixth and Ninth Commandments relate to each other in promoting a virtuous life?

<p>The Sixth and Ninth Commandments are related because they both emphasize purity in thought, word, and deed. The Sixth guides actions, and the Ninth addresses desires and intentions, working together to promote chastity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the dual significance of God providing both an assurance and a sign in response to Moses's objection?

<p>The assurance provides comfort and promise of divine presence while the sign offers tangible proof and validation of God's authority and direction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Moses's initial return to Jethro, his father-in-law, connect to the eventual acceptance of his mission?

<p>Returning to Jethro shows his initial reluctance, suggesting he needed time, but it ultimately highlights the difficulty involved in accepting the mission and following God's will.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how adhering to the Fourth Commandment ('Honor your father and your mother') can positively influence one's ability to uphold the Fifth Commandment ('You shall not kill').

<p>Honoring parents fosters respect for authority and human life, instilling empathy and understanding of inherent human dignity; disrespect for parents can indicate a broader disregard for others' well-being, increasing the likelihood of violating the Fifth Commandment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation where following the Sixth and Ninth Commandments ('You shall not commit adultery' and 'You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife') could lead to a more just and equitable society.

<p>If everyone followed these commandments, there would be greater respect within marital relationships, leading to stronger families. This stability can create a more supportive environment for raising children and reduce exploitation of individuals based on lust or infidelity, contributing to a more equitable society.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Reflect on how Call Narratives, as illustrated by the calling of Moses, change the lives of individuals and highlight the nature of divine intervention.

<p>Call Narratives show God acting in human history and radically disrupt people's lives. They also show that the plan is God's, not the person's.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what ways does the call of Moses challenge or subvert the expectations of leadership and power, considering his background as an adopted Egyptian and a fugitive?

<p>Moses's background is that he is an unlikely leader because he is a fugitive and was raised in Pharaoh's household. He is more likely to be an outcast than a leader.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Exodus

The book that follows Genesis, recounting the story of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt.

Call Narrative

A literary form used to demonstrate that a person is chosen by God for a specific purpose.

Theophany

A visible manifestation of God, often in a dramatic form.

Objection to the Mission

An expression of doubt or reluctance by the one called by God.

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Response to the Objection

Reassurance and a sign from God to the person who questions that they can accomplish the task.

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Acceptance of the Mission

Submission to God's will, accepting the assigned mission.

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Pharaoh's Decree

The act of Pharaoh ordering all Hebrew sons to be cast into the Nile River.

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New Pharaoh

The leader who enslaved the Israelites after they were invited to Egypt by Joseph.

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Oppression in Egypt

After Joseph's death, Israelites faced oppression in Egypt, losing their protector and enduring hard labor.

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Moses' Mission

God sent Moses to liberate the Israelites from Egyptian oppression after their suffering increased.

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Ten Plagues

God demonstrated His power through ten plagues to convince the stubborn Pharaoh to free the Israelites.

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Passover Feast

A memorial feast reminding future generations of God’s saving act.

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Passover Significance

Participation in the Passover meal signified belonging to God's people, ensuring they would be spared from the final plague.

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Preparedness for Exodus

The Israelites were instructed to prepare this meal in readiness for their imminent journey of liberation.

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Pharaoh's Pursuit

Despite initial agreement, Pharaoh changed his mind and pursued the departing Israelites.

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Red Sea Dilemma

When trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army, the Israelites complained, but Moses urged them to trust in God.

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Column of Clouds

A visible manifestation of God's presence and guidance for the Israelites.

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Message of the Story of Moses

God remembers and responds to the suffering, choosing unexpected people and providing them with the means to accomplish His saving acts.

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Preferential Option for the Poor

Prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable and considering the impact of decisions on them.

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Poor and Vulnerable in God's Kingdom

Recognizing the special place of the poor and vulnerable in God's kingdom.

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Making a Preferential Option

A way of following Jesus' example by focusing on the marginalized .

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Experience of the Poor

A test to see if a society shows justice to everyone.

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Decalogue

Literally, 'ten words,' revealed to the people on Mt. Sinai and written by God.

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Ten Commandments

Summaries of what God wants people to remember about their relationship, and what humans desire.

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Honor Parents

Respect, care, and obedience towards parents and those in authority.

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Care for Others

Taking good care of children/those entrusted to us and promoting the common good.

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Respect for Life

Respecting human life and protecting it from threats, supporting causes against harming life.

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Promote Well-being

Promoting the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of individuals.

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Practice Purity

Maintaining purity in thoughts, words and actions, and respecting the family institution.

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8th Commandment

Respect for the truth.

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6th Commandment

Mutual love and faithfulness of husband and wife.

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Bearing Witness

Respect for the good reputation of others.

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7th Commandment

Respect for what belongs to others and public property.

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Social Justice

Active participation in the promotion of social justice.

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Commandment Observance

Demonstrates belonging to God, answering His love with gratitude.

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Ten Commandments' Focus

Respect God (first three) and respect for others/self (last seven).

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1st Commandment Value

Love God above all else.

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Polytheism and Idolatry

Belief in multiple gods or worshipping idols instead of God

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1st Commandment Action

Worship God alone.

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2nd Commandment Focus

Respect God's name and all related to Him.

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3rd Commandment Core

Respect sacred traditions and observances.

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Desecrating the Lord's Day

Looking at Sunday as simply time off instead of honoring God

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Study Notes

  • The Book of Exodus recounts the story of Moses.

Prologue (Exodus 1-2)

  • Exodus continues the Genesis narrative, focusing on the Israelite nation in Egypt.
  • The Israelites were invited to Egypt by Joseph.
  • A new Pharaoh, concerned about the Israelites' population growth, enslaved them and ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be thrown into the Nile.
  • Moses escaped this decree and was raised in the Pharaoh's household.
  • As an adult, Moses killed an Egyptian slave driver and fled the country.

The Call of Moses

  • The calling of Moses is found in Exodus 3.
  • The call narrative is a literary device used to show that God calls and assigns a mission to a person.
  • Five elements of a Call Narrative:
    • Introduction (Theophany): God appears to Moses as a flame within a bush.
    • Giving of Mission: God sends Moses to Pharaoh to free the Israelites from Egypt.
    • Objection: Moses questions his ability to fulfill the mission.
    • Assurance and Sign: God assures Moses of His presence and gives a sign to show his is divinely sent.
    • Acceptance: Moses returns to Egypt to help his people.

God Saves Israel (Exodus 3–15)

  • The Israelites faced oppression in Egypt after Joseph's death.
  • The great service Joseph rendered to the Egyptians was forgotten.
  • God sent Moses to liberate them.
  • Moses told the people about his encounter with God, and they believed him.
  • Moses asked the Pharaoh to free the Israelites, but he refused.
  • The Pharaoh's refusal led to a power struggle between God and the Pharaoh.
  • The Pharaoh worsened the Israelites' treatment in response to God's request, leading to complaints.

The Ten Plagues

  • God reaffirmed His commitment to His people.
  • God ordered Moses to go back to the pharaoh and repeat God's request.
  • God gave Moses a sign to prove that he was indeed sent by God.
  • The Pharaoh remained stubborn.
  • God sent 10 plagues to convince the Pharaoh.
  • After the tenth plague, the Israelites were freed from slavery.

From Slavery to Freedom (Exodus 16-19)

The Passover Feast

  • God instructed Moses to have the people prepare and share a meal.
  • The meal symbolized belonging to God's people and preparedness for a journey to freedom.
  • The Passover meal commemorates God's saving act.

Permission to Depart (Ex. 12:31 – 36 and Ex. 13: 17 – 14:31)

  • After the last plague, the Egyptians let the Israelites go.
  • The Pharaoh changed his mind and pursued them.
  • The Israelites were trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army.
  • God guided the Israelites safely through the Red Sea.
  • The Egyptian army was drowned when the sea returned.
  • A column of clouds indicated God's presence.

Message of the Story of Moses

  • God hears the cries of the oppressed.
  • God chooses unlikely people to be instruments of His saving actions.
  • God gives people the talents needed to carry out His mission.
  • God is more powerful than any man on earth.
  • God uses natural events to save His people.
  • God saves His people no matter how difficult the situation may seem.

Preferential Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

  • Giving preferential option for the poor means prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable.
  • The poor and vulnerable have a special place in the kingdom of God.
  • Practice means considering the impact of decisions on the most vulnerable.
  • Making a preferential option for the poor requires to right relationships by placing those in greatest need at the center.
  • The experience of the poor and powerless tests the justness of society.
  • Catholic organizations prioritize the needy in their services.
  • Choices should consider the impact on those who are poor or pushed to the margins.

The Ten Commandments

  • Decalogue means "ten words."
  • God revealed these words on the holy mountain.
  • The Ten given at Sinai summarize God's desires for His relationship with people and what people want for themselves.
  • Observing the commandments manifests belonging to God and answering His love.
  • The first three relate to respecting God, and the last seven to respecting life, property, and reputation.

Ten Commandments and Values/Virtues

  • 1st Commandment (No other gods): Love and worship for God alone.
  • 2nd (Do not take God's name in vain): Respect for God and what pertains to Him.
  • 3rd (Keep the Lord's Day holy): Respect for sacred institutions.
  • 4th (Honor parents): Love for parents and obedience to authorities.
  • 5th (Do not kill): Respect for life and protection from threats.
  • 6th and 9th (Do not commit adultery/covet neighbor's wife): Respect for family and purity.
  • 7th (Do not steal): Respect for others' property and social justice.
  • 8th (Do not bear false witness): Respect for truth and others' reputations.

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