Recap:
When crafting a sermon, there are times when everything seems to flow seamlessly. The words come together, the thoughts align, and the message practically writes itself. However, there are also sermons that feel like a laborious process, where the words just won’t cooperate, and the thoughts are scattered. This particular sermon felt like the latter, requiring multiple drafts before arriving at a cohesive message. Yet, amid the struggle, one story stood out as a beacon of clarity—a story that formed the foundation of this sermon.
In seventh grade, a significant shift occurred. Transitioning from public school to a private school introduced a new and unfamiliar form of English education. Standing before a chalkboard, with chalk dust in the air and no dry-erase markers in sight, the daunting task of diagramming sentences began. The basics of grammar were elusive, and the intricacies of prepositions, adverbs, and adjectives seemed like an insurmountable challenge. The experience left a lasting impression, even haunting dreams with memories of standing before that chalkboard.
Throughout those years, tales of a formidable teacher named Mr. Weddle circulated among students. Known for his tough demeanor and high expectations, he was both feared and respected. Those who had encountered him in earlier grades warned of the trials ahead. Ninth grade marked the first encounter with Mr. Weddle, and alongside that, an introduction to the world of Shakespeare, beginning with “Romeo and Juliet.”
Despite initial apprehensions, something transformative happened in Mr. Weddle’s class. The emphasis shifted from sentence diagramming to literature, revealing an unexpected appreciation for the written word. The realization dawned that literature was a realm of symbolism and depth, where even a seemingly simple word like “moon” held layers of meaning. That initial in-class essay on symbolism yielded surprising results—a grade far higher than anticipated, igniting a newfound love for English.
This revelation extended beyond the classroom. The understanding that great writers embedded symbolism in their work opened a new perspective, and it was evident that the authors of Scripture possessed the same depth of creativity. The discovery of symbols in Scripture, akin to those in literature, became a source of fascination. Over time, the connection between these symbols and biblical narratives grew clearer.
In the book of Genesis, the story of Abraham serves as a prime example. The narrative of Abraham is rich with themes and symbols, inviting deeper exploration. Themes like covenant, partnership, and identity unfold within the text. The idea that God enters into partnership with humanity, granting promises and forming eternal covenants, resonates throughout Scripture.
In Genesis chapter 12, the journey of Abraham begins with God’s call to leave his homeland and venture into the unknown. This calling initiates a covenant with promises of blessings, fame, and the birth of a great nation. However, the path forward is not without challenges. The narrative of Abraham mirrors a pattern familiar to many—a series of successes followed by unforeseen trials.
The familiar tale of George Costanza from the sitcom “Seinfeld” illustrates a similar pattern. George’s life is a series of ups and downs, with moments of triumph followed by inevitable setbacks. Likewise, Abraham’s journey experiences a turning point when famine strikes the land, prompting a decision to seek refuge in Egypt.
Egypt, in ancient times, symbolized provision and refuge. The fertile banks of the Nile River made it a land of abundance, much like the “breadbasket” of its era. However, this decision to rely on Egypt reveals a deeper issue—the tendency to turn to worldly solutions rather than trusting in God’s promises.
The story unfolds with Abraham instructing his wife, Sarah, to pose as his sister to avoid potential threats. This decision, driven by fear, illustrates a lack of trust in God’s provision and protection. The narrative takes a complicated turn as Pharaoh, deceived by Abraham’s ruse, gifts Abraham with wealth and servants.
This false favor comes at a cost. The wealth acquired in Egypt leads to division between Abraham and his nephew Lot, setting the stage for future conflicts. Additionally, the introduction of Hagar, an Egyptian servant, results in the birth of Ishmael, a child outside the covenant, leading to generational tensions that persist throughout history.
The consequences of relying on Egypt extend beyond Abraham’s immediate circumstances. The decision to seek refuge in Egypt rather than trust in God’s provision reflects a broader human tendency to seek security in the familiar rather than in faith. The narrative of Abraham and Egypt resonates with our own struggles and temptations to turn to worldly solutions in times of uncertainty.
The story of Israel’s exodus from Egypt further underscores this theme. Despite the hardships endured in Egypt, the Israelites frequently longed to return to the perceived comfort of their former lives. The allure of Egypt, with its memories of abundance and provision, overshadowed the reality of their enslavement. The struggle to break free from the grip of Egypt mirrors the internal battles we face in our own lives.
Yet, amid these struggles, there is hope. The narrative of Scripture reveals a God who breaks the cycles of dependence and fear. The redemptive work of Jesus offers a new path, one that overcomes the temptations and pitfalls of turning to worldly solutions. In the face of temptation, Jesus stands as the ultimate example of reliance on God, resisting the allure of worldly power and provision.
The story of Jesus’ journey to Egypt as a child demonstrates the breaking of the curse. Unlike those who sought refuge in Egypt, Jesus’ time in Egypt was marked by God’s guidance and protection. The return from Egypt signifies a new beginning—a departure from the past and an embrace of God’s promises.
The breaking of the curse of Egypt extends to each of us. Through prayer and reliance on God’s provision, we can overcome the temptation to seek security in the temporary. The Lord’s Prayer serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision. The call to seek daily bread underscores the need for dependence on God in every moment.
In conclusion, the story of Abraham and Egypt invites us to examine our own lives. What are the “Egypts” we turn to in times of uncertainty? Where do we seek security apart from God? The narrative of Scripture challenges us to place our trust in God’s promises, to break free from the cycles of fear and false favor, and to embrace the abundant life found in Him.
As we reflect on the symbols and themes woven throughout Scripture, we find a deeper understanding of God’s redemptive plan. The journey from Egypt to the Promised Land mirrors our spiritual journey—a journey from reliance on worldly solutions to trust in the God who provides abundantly.
In the end, the curse of Egypt is broken through faith in Jesus Christ. His sacrifice on the cross releases us from the chains of sin and offers a new identity as children of God. As we walk in covenant with Him, we discover the true source of provision and blessing—found not in the temporary comforts of this world, but in the eternal promises of our faithful God.
Let us, therefore, turn away from the “Egypts” in our lives and place our trust in the One who is always enough.
Group Questions:
Icebreaker Questions
- English Class Memories:
- Share a memorable experience you had in an English or literature class. Was it positive or challenging? Why?
- Symbolism in Literature:
- What is your favorite book or movie that uses symbolism effectively? How did it impact your understanding of the story?
Exploration of Personal Experience
- Facing New Challenges:
- Think about a time when you faced a new challenge or transition (like the move from public to private school in the sermon). How did it shape your character or perspective?
- Worldly Solutions vs. Faith:
- Can you recall a moment when you relied on worldly solutions instead of trusting in God? How did that decision affect you, and what did you learn from it?
Scripture and Symbolism
- The Symbolism of Egypt:
- How does the symbolism of Egypt as a place of provision and temptation resonate with your own experiences of seeking security outside of God?
- Themes in Abraham’s Story:
- Reflect on the themes of covenant, partnership, and identity in the story of Abraham. How do these themes appear in your own spiritual journey?
- Biblical Symbolism:
- Consider the symbolism of the moon mentioned in the sermon. What other symbols have you found in Scripture, and how have they deepened your understanding of God’s message?
Application to Life
- Identifying Your Egypts:
- What are the “Egypts” in your life that you turn to in times of uncertainty? How can you begin to trust God more fully in these areas?
- Trusting God’s Promises:
- How can the story of Abraham’s reliance on Egypt challenge you to place your trust in God’s promises instead of seeking temporary solutions?
- Breaking the Curse:
- How does the story of Jesus’ journey to and return from Egypt demonstrate God’s power to break the curse of dependency on worldly solutions? How can this truth inspire you today?
Reflection and Commitment
- Daily Dependence on God:
- The Lord’s Prayer emphasizes daily dependence on God. How can you incorporate this mindset into your daily life, trusting God for your “daily bread”?
- Embracing God’s Provision:
- In what ways can you intentionally turn away from worldly comforts and embrace the abundant life God promises through faith in Jesus?
- Personal Prayer:
- Spend a few moments reflecting silently or writing down a prayer, asking God to reveal the “Egypts” in your life and guide you toward deeper trust in His provision.
Group Discussion
- The Role of Community:
- How can we support one another in breaking free from reliance on worldly solutions and embracing God’s promises as a community?
- Sharing Personal Stories:
- Invite someone to share a testimony of how they overcame a struggle with relying on worldly solutions and found peace in God’s promises.