Exodus 18
BSB1 Now Moses’ father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian, heard about all that God had done for Moses and His people Israel, and how the LORD had brought Israel out of Egypt. 2 After Moses had sent back his wife Zipporah, his father-in-law Jethro had received her, 3 along with her two sons. One son was named Gershom, for Moses had said, “I have been a foreigner in a foreign land." 4 The other son was named Eliezer, for Moses had said, “The God of my father was my helper and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh." 5 Moses’ father-in-law Jethro, along with Moses’ wife and sons, came to him in the desert, where he was encamped at the mountain of God. 6 He sent word to Moses, “I, your father-in-law Jethro, am coming to you with your wife and her two sons." 7 So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law and bowed down and kissed him. They greeted each other and went into the tent. 8 Then Moses recounted to his father-in-law all that the LORD had done to Pharaoh and the Egyptians for Israel’s sake, all the hardships they had encountered along the way, and how the LORD had delivered them. 9 And Jethro rejoiced over all the good things the LORD had done for Israel, whom He had rescued from the hand of the Egyptians. 10 Jethro declared, “Blessed be the LORD, who has delivered you from the hand of the Egyptians and of Pharaoh, and who has delivered the people from the hand of the Egyptians. 11 Now I know that the LORD is greater than all other gods, for He did this when they treated Israel with arrogance." 12 Then Moses’ father-in-law Jethro brought a burnt offering and sacrifices to God, and Aaron came with all the elders of Israel to eat bread with Moses’ father-in-law in the presence of God. 13 The next day Moses took his seat to judge the people, and they stood around him from morning until evening. 14 When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he asked, “What is this that you are doing for the people? Why do you sit alone as judge, with all the people standing around you from morning till evening?" 15 “Because the people come to me to inquire of God,” Moses replied. 16 “Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me to judge between one man and another, and I make known to them the statutes and laws of God." 17 But Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good. 18 Surely you and these people with you will wear yourselves out, because the task is too heavy for you. You cannot handle it alone. 19 Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their causes to Him. 20 Teach them the statutes and laws, and show them the way to live and the work they must do. 21 Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who are averse to dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. 22 Have these men judge the people at all times. Then they can bring you any major issue, but all minor cases they can judge on their own, so that your load may be lightened as they share it with you. 23 If you follow this advice and God so directs you, then you will be able to endure, and all these people can go home in peace." 24 Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. 25 So Moses chose capable men from all Israel and made them heads over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. 26 And they judged the people at all times; they would bring the difficult cases to Moses, but any minor issue they would judge themselves. 27 Then Moses sent his father-in-law on his way, and Jethro returned to his own land.
Study Notes — Exodus 18
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Exodus 18
- Themes from Exodus 18
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Exodus 18
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with Jethro, a priest of Midian, visiting Moses and learning about the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 18:1-12). Jethro then observes Moses judging the people and offers advice on how to manage the workload by appointing capable leaders (Exodus 18:13-27). Moses heeds Jethro's counsel, and the chapter concludes with Jethro worshipping God and returning to his own land (Exodus 18:27-27). This chapter emphasizes the value of wise counsel, effective leadership, and trust in God's providence.
Context for the Chapter
Exodus 18 is situated in the larger narrative of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. The chapter follows the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt and their sojourn in the wilderness, where they receive guidance and instruction from God through Moses. This chapter highlights the importance of effective leadership and wise counsel in the midst of this journey, as the Israelites prepare to receive the Law and establish their new society. The principles of leadership and trust in God's sovereignty outlined in this chapter have broader implications for the Israelites' relationship with God and their role as a covenant people.
Heart Application
As believers, we can apply the principles of Exodus 18 by seeking wise counsel from others, recognizing our limitations, and trusting in God's sovereignty. This may involve being open to feedback and criticism, being willing to adapt and grow, and prioritizing our relationship with God above all else. By doing so, we can cultivate a deeper trust in God's guidance and provision, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, giving him advice on how to lead the Israelites. Jethro tells Moses to find wise and capable leaders to help him, so he doesn't have to do everything himself (Exodus 18:13-27). This shows the importance of seeking wisdom and trusting in God's guidance. As believers, we can apply this principle by seeking counsel from others and prioritizing our relationship with God.
Voices from the Church
“The Lord will give us wisdom if we seek it, and He will give us strength if we ask for it. Let us not be afraid to ask for counsel, for it is a sign of humility and a mark of wisdom.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“Moses' humility in seeking Jethro's counsel is a remarkable example of his recognition of his own limitations and his trust in God's sovereignty. May we follow his example in seeking wisdom and guidance from others, and in trusting in God's providence.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Jethro Visits Moses (Exodus 18:1-12) — Jethro learns about the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt and offers to help Moses with his workload.
- Jethro's Advice to Moses (Exodus 18:13-23) — Jethro observes Moses judging the people and offers advice on how to manage the workload by appointing capable leaders.
- Moses Implements Jethro's Counsel (Exodus 18:24-27) — Moses heeds Jethro's advice and appoints leaders to assist him in judging the people.
- Jethro's Worship and Departure (Exodus 18:27) — Jethro worships God and returns to his own land, having provided wise counsel to Moses.
- Conclusion (Exodus 18:27) — The chapter concludes with Jethro's departure, emphasizing the importance of seeking wisdom and trusting in God's sovereignty.
Core Doctrines
- Providence
- This chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all events and circumstances, guiding the lives of His people and providing for their needs (Exodus 18:1-12).
- Leadership
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of effective leadership, highlighting the need for leaders to seek wisdom, delegate responsibilities, and trust in God's guidance (Exodus 18:13-27).
- Humility
- Moses' humility in seeking Jethro's counsel is a remarkable example of his recognition of his own limitations and his trust in God's sovereignty (Exodus 18:19-20).
- Wisdom
- The chapter highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment in leadership, as seen in Jethro's counsel to Moses (Exodus 18:19-20).
Lessons from Exodus 18
- The Importance of Seeking Wisdom — This chapter teaches the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment in leadership, as seen in Jethro's counsel to Moses (Exodus 18:19-20).
- The Value of Humility — Moses' humility in seeking Jethro's counsel serves as a model for leaders, highlighting the importance of recognizing one's limitations and trusting in God's sovereignty (Exodus 18:19-20).
- The Need for Effective Leadership — The chapter emphasizes the importance of effective leadership, highlighting the need for leaders to seek wisdom, delegate responsibilities, and trust in God's guidance (Exodus 18:13-27).
- The Importance of Trusting in God's Sovereignty — The chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all events and circumstances, guiding the lives of His people and providing for their needs (Exodus 18:1-12).
- The Value of Seeking Counsel from Others — This chapter highlights the importance of seeking counsel from others, as seen in Moses' relationship with Jethro (Exodus 18:1-12).
Themes from Exodus 18
- Leadership — The chapter emphasizes the importance of effective leadership, highlighting the need for leaders to seek wisdom, delegate responsibilities, and trust in God's guidance (Exodus 18:13-27).
- Wisdom — The chapter teaches the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment in leadership, as seen in Jethro's counsel to Moses (Exodus 18:19-20).
- Humility — Moses' humility in seeking Jethro's counsel serves as a model for leaders, highlighting the importance of recognizing one's limitations and trusting in God's sovereignty (Exodus 18:19-20).
- Trust in God's Sovereignty — The chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all events and circumstances, guiding the lives of His people and providing for their needs (Exodus 18:1-12).
- The Importance of Seeking Counsel from Others — This chapter highlights the importance of seeking counsel from others, as seen in Moses' relationship with Jethro (Exodus 18:1-12).
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways you can seek wise counsel from others in your own life, and how can you apply the principles of Exodus 18 to your relationships and decision-making?
- How does Moses' humility in seeking Jethro's counsel serve as a model for leaders, and what are some ways you can cultivate humility in your own life?
- What are some ways you can trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of challenging circumstances, and how can you apply the principles of Exodus 18 to your own life and relationships?
- How does the chapter emphasize the importance of effective leadership, and what are some ways you can apply the principles of leadership outlined in Exodus 18 to your own life and relationships?
- What are some ways you can prioritize your relationship with God and seek His guidance and wisdom in your decision-making, and how can you apply the principles of Exodus 18 to your own spiritual growth and development?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Jethro Visits Moses (Exodus 18:1-6)
| 18:1 | Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, learns about the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt and decides to visit Moses. |
| 18:2 | Moses' wife, Zipporah, and their two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, are with Jethro when he visits Moses. |
2. Jethro Advises Moses (Exodus 18:7-27)
| 18:7 | Moses greets Jethro and tells him about the Israelites' experiences since leaving Egypt. |
| 18:8 | Jethro is amazed by the stories and worships God, recognizing His power and deliverance. |
| 18:13 | The next day, Jethro observes Moses judging the people and offers advice on how to manage the workload. |
| 18:19 | Jethro tells Moses to seek God's guidance and appoint capable leaders to assist him in judging the people. |
| 18:21 | Jethro advises Moses to choose leaders who are wise, understanding, and fearing God, and to appoint them as rulers over the people. |
| 18:24 | Moses heeds Jethro's counsel and appoints leaders to assist him in judging the people. |
| 18:27 | Jethro returns to his own land, having provided wise counsel to Moses. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Exodus 18?
The main theme of Exodus 18 is the importance of seeking wisdom and effective leadership, as seen in Jethro's counsel to Moses (Exodus 18:19-20).
Who is Jethro in the Bible?
Jethro is Moses' father-in-law, a priest of Midian, who visits Moses and provides wise counsel on how to lead the Israelites (Exodus 18:1-12).
What is the significance of Moses' humility in seeking Jethro's counsel?
Moses' humility in seeking Jethro's counsel serves as a model for leaders, highlighting the importance of recognizing one's limitations and trusting in God's sovereignty (Exodus 18:19-20).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exodus 18:1 → Genesis 25:2 | Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, is mentioned in Genesis 25:2 as a descendant of Abraham. |
| 2 | Exodus 18:13 → Deuteronomy 1:9-18 | Moses' experience in judging the people is also mentioned in Deuteronomy 1:9-18, where he reflects on the challenges of leading the Israelites. |
| 3 | Exodus 18:19 → Proverbs 11:14 | The importance of seeking wise counsel is emphasized in Proverbs 11:14, which says, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." |
| 4 | Exodus 18:21 → Acts 6:1-7 | The appointment of leaders to assist Moses is similar to the appointment of deacons in Acts 6:1-7, where the apostles choose wise and Spirit-filled men to serve the church. |
| 5 | Exodus 18:24 → Matthew 20:25-28 | Jesus teaches about the importance of humility and servanthood in leadership, saying that the greatest among us will be the servant of all (Matthew 20:25-28). |
| 6 | Exodus 18:1-12 → Hebrews 13:7 | The example of Jethro's visit to Moses is mentioned in Hebrews 13:7, which encourages believers to remember their leaders and imitate their faith. |
| 7 | Exodus 18:13-27 → 1 Corinthians 12:28 | The appointment of leaders in Exodus 18:13-27 is similar to the gifts of leadership and administration mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:28, which are given to the church for its edification. |
| 8 | Exodus 18:19 → James 1:5 | The importance of seeking wisdom is emphasized in James 1:5, which says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." |
| 9 | Exodus 18:21 → Titus 1:5-9 | The qualifications for leaders mentioned in Exodus 18:21 are similar to those listed in Titus 1:5-9, which emphasize the importance of a leader's character and faithfulness. |
| 10 | Exodus 18:27 → Psalm 105:42-45 | The conclusion of Exodus 18, where Jethro returns to his own land, is similar to the psalmist's reflection on God's faithfulness to the Israelites in Psalm 105:42-45, which celebrates God's guidance and provision. |
Sermons on Exodus 18
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Wearing Down of the Saints by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of people waiting in line to be prayed for and seeking a touch or word from a man instead of seeking God directly. The speaker refer |
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(Zambia) the Touch of God by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a heart for God and waiting on Him. He uses the example of Moses going up to the mountain to receive instructions f |
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(Exodus) Exodus 18:1-12 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Exodus Chapter 18, where Moses turns to worldly wisdom instead of seeking revelation from God. Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, visits him and M |
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The Touch of God (Birmingham Conference) by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God does not choose super people or those with great skills to fulfill His plans. He often chooses unknown individuals and even educate |
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(Exodus) Exodus 18:13-27 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Moses and his father-in-law, Jethro. Jethro observes Moses working tirelessly to judge the people and suggests that Moses lighten |
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Is the Lord Among Us, or Not by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the advancements of technology, particularly the TV camera, and how it has brought both incredible discoveries and disturbing events into ou |
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Nahshon by Ron Bailey | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the book of Numbers in the Bible and the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the Promised Land. The speaker highlights the tragic nature |
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(Through the Bible) Exodus 16-18 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a genuine fear of God and the accountability that comes with being a teacher of the Word. He shares his personal str |
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The Meaning of Head in the Bible by Wayne Grudem | In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the importance of citing references in a way that makes them difficult to locate. He emphasizes that evangelical scholarship should |
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If My People - Part 1 by Shane Idleman | This sermon emphasizes the importance of addressing controversial topics and recapturing the prophetic zeal in churches. It highlights the impact of the Johnson Amendment on church |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Exodus 18
In Exodus 18, we see the importance of seeking wisdom and effective leadership, as Jethro advises Moses to appoint capable leaders to assist him in judging the people. This chapter highlights the value of humility, as Moses recognizes his limitations and trusts in God's sovereignty. We also see the significance of trusting in God's providence, as Jethro acknowledges God's power and deliverance. As Matthew Henry notes, 'those who are faithful in a few things shall be made rulers over many things.' This chapter teaches us to prioritize our relationship with God, seek wise counsel from others, and trust in His guidance and provision, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Jethro's Wisdom
Jethro's advice to Moses demonstrates his wisdom and understanding of effective leadership, as seen in Exodus 18:19-20. This highlights the importance of seeking counsel from others and recognizing the value of their experience and insight.
Moses' Humility
Moses' willingness to listen to Jethro's counsel and implement his suggestions shows his humility and recognition of his limitations as a leader (Exodus 18:24). This serves as a model for leaders to be open to feedback and willing to adapt and grow.
God's Sovereignty
The chapter emphasizes God's presence and sovereignty throughout the Israelites' journey, as seen in Exodus 18:1-12 and 18:19. This underscores the importance of trusting in God's guidance and provision, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.