Definition: When Jethro, the priest of Midian, Moses’ father in law, heard of all that God had done for Moses, and for Israel his people, [and] that the LORD had brought Israel out of Egypt;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 18:1. It's a really important part of understanding how Moses became the leader of the Israelites! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that Moses was born to Jethro. “When Jethro, the priest of Midian…” – This refers to a man named Jethro who lived in Midian. He was a high-ranking priest, and he was known for his wisdom and his connection to God. “…heard of all that God had done for Moses…” - This means Jethro learned about all the amazing things God had accomplished before Moses was born. Think of it like discovering a really incredible story! “and for Israel his people…” – This is the key part. It tells us that God’s plan extended to Israel , which is the group of people who were enslaved in Egypt. “…and that the LORD had brought Israel out of Egypt.” - This is the main point: God had rescued His people from slavery! He had taken them away and brought them to a new land – Egypt. So, it’s a story about God’s amazing plan to liberate his people. It's a beautiful example of how God’s love and power are revealed through His choices. In short: Moses was born to Jethro because God had already started working to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Do you want me to explain any of this further, perhaps with a little more detail about the context or the significance of this story?

Definition: And Jethro said, Blessed [be] the LORD, who hath delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of Pharaoh, who hath delivered the people from under the hand of the Egyptians.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 18:10. It’s a really important and significant moment in Jewish history! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is thanking God for protecting his people, the Israelites, from being enslaved by Pharaoh, the Egyptian ruler. He’s saying that He actually intervened to save them. Let’s unpack it further: “And Jethro said…” : This refers to Jethro, a Hebrew priest who was visiting Jacob (later Abraham) in Egypt. “…Blessed [be] the LORD…” : This is a way of expressing gratitude and praise to God. “Blessed” means thankful and joyful. “…who hath delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians…” : This is the core of the verse. God is acknowledging that He actively saved the Israelites from being held captive by Pharaoh's power. He’s saying He intervened to free them. “Out of the hand of” means He took away their control. “…and out of the hand of the Egyptians…” : This continues the story, emphasizing that God was also protecting them from Pharaoh’s authority and control over them. What does this mean practically? This event is incredibly significant because it shows: God's Sovereignty: He's in charge and has the power to intervene in human affairs. His Protection of His People: It highlights God’s care for his chosen people, particularly the Israelites, who were facing a difficult situation. A Moment of Divine Intervention: It shows that God wasn’t just passively allowing things to happen; He actively worked to change the situation and save his people. In short, it's a story about God protecting His people from oppression. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a historical context of this event? Discuss its significance within Jewish tradition?

Definition: Now I know that the LORD [is] greater than all gods: for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly [he was] above them.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 18:11. It’s a really important and slightly surprising statement about God’s power! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: When the Israelites were facing a huge challenge – they were being tricked and manipulated by the Egyptians to give them false idols (representations of gods) – God showed them that He was way more powerful than any of those false gods. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Now I know…” This is a shift in perspective. Before, they were focused on the Egyptians and their power. Now, they realize God is the ultimate authority. “…that the LORD [is] greater than all gods.” This is the core of the verse. The Lord – which is God – is more powerful than any other god or deity. It’s a huge statement of dominance. “for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly [he was] above them.” This is where it gets interesting. "They dealt proudly" means the Egyptians were boasting and being arrogant. The verse describes God as exceeding their pride. It's like saying, “He was higher than their boasting!” What’s the big takeaway? This verse demonstrates God's absolute sovereignty – that He is in control and always wins. It shows that God isn't just powerful, but also superior to anything we can create or think of. In short: God was so much stronger than the Egyptians’ false gods that they had to acknowledge His power by admitting it! --- To help me explain it even better and answer any specific questions you might have, could you tell me: What are you curious about specifically? (e.g., Do you want a simpler explanation? Are you wondering about its meaning in a particular context?)

Definition: And Jethro, Moses’ father in law, took a burnt offering and sacrifices for God: and Aaron came, and all the elders of Israel, to eat bread with Moses’ father in law before God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 18:12. It’s a really important story about faith and obedience! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Moses was raised by his stepfather, Jethro, who was a priest. God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and into a new land. During this journey, God instructed Moses to go to Jethro’s home. What Happened Next: Jethro Presents an Offering: Jethro, noticing that Moses wasn't fully prepared for leadership, offered him a burnt offering – a sacrifice made in a special way. The Elders of Israel Come: A group of the elders of Israel (leaders and important people) came to eat with Moses. It’s a Test of Faith: This entire scene is designed as a test. They were showing their faith in God and their willingness to follow Moses' instructions. What it Means – The Big Picture: This story shows that God’s plan for the Israelites wasn’t just about Moses leading them, but about God’s plan being fulfilled through His chosen people . It emphasizes: Trusting in God's Will: The elders of Israel were demonstrating that they trusted in God and wanted to be with Moses. Following Instructions: The story highlights the importance of obeying God's commands, even when it’s difficult. In short, this verse is a reminder that God works through his chosen people, and we should always follow His guidance. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of the burnt offering itself? Discuss what it means for Moses to be raised by Jethro? Or perhaps delve into a specific theme within this story (like obedience)?

Definition: And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 18:13. It's a really important moment in the story of Israel’s liberation! Here’s what it means, explained simply: “And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people:” “It came to pass”: This is just a fancy way of saying “happened.” It's a regular occurrence in biblical stories. “On the morrow”: This means "the next day." So, it’s happening after the previous day. "...that Moses sat to judge the people:" Moses: This is the leader of the Israelites – the ones who were enslaved in Egypt. “Sat”: He was sitting down and thinking. "To judge the people": This is a crucial part. It means he was responsible for overseeing the Israelites, making decisions about them, and ensuring they followed God's laws. Basically, he was in charge of the people’s lives. “:” This little dash signifies that this is a significant event. It’s not just any day; it’s a special day. So, putting it all together: Moses was sitting down to oversee the Israelites while they were in a state of rest or relaxation. It's a moment where he was taking time to think about what needed to be done with them. Why is this important? This verse sets up a key part of the story. After this, God decides to give Moses the responsibility of leading the Israelites out of Egypt. It’s a significant step in their liberation! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a deeper context for this passage?

Definition: And when Moses’ father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What [is] this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 18:14. It’s a really important and somewhat puzzling passage in the Bible! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Core of the Story: Moses is leading the Israelites out of Egypt and into the wilderness. He’s setting up a camp and, as he’s observing his people, he notices something incredibly strange happening. What’s Happening? The People are Standing by Him Alone: The people are completely devoted to Moses and are staying with him without any other leaders or authority. They're following everything he says and doing everything he asks them to do. He’s Sitting Alone: This is the really strange part. He’s sitting alone, seemingly not needing anyone else around. The Question Raised: Moses is asking himself, "Why am I doing this? Why am I setting up a camp and being so solitary?" Possible Interpretations (and what it suggests): This verse isn't about him being lonely; it’s about his own perspective. Here are a few ways to understand it: He’s Seeking Guidance: Perhaps Moses is feeling lost or unsure of how to lead the people effectively. He might be struggling with a difficult decision and needs someone to guide him. A Test of Faith: It could be that he's testing his faith – is he truly capable of leading, or are there things he doesn’t understand? He’s asking for an explanation of why he’s doing this. His Own Pride: It might also suggest a moment of pride, a feeling of being in charge, and a need to be alone to feel empowered. In short, the verse is a moment of reflection on Moses' position and his own thoughts as he observes his people. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated by scholars for centuries. It’s a classic example of biblical text that invites deeper interpretation! --- Do you want to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context surrounding this passage? Discuss different interpretations of the verse?

Definition: And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to inquire of God:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 18:15. It’s a really important and slightly surprising statement about Moses and his father! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Moses was acknowledging that people were asking God for help. Let’s unpack it a bit: “And Moses said unto…” : This is a formal way of saying “Moses spoke.” It’s like he’s explaining something to his father. “…his father in law” : This refers to Pharaoh, the Egyptian king. He was Moses's father-in-law, meaning he was a close relative. “Because the people come unto me to inquire of God…” : This is the key part. It means that people – specifically, the Israelites – were approaching him with questions and pleas for help. They were seeking guidance from God. So, what's the point? It’s a bit strange because it seems like Moses was expecting people to come to him. He was setting up a system where he would be the person they turned to for their problems. Why is this significant? This verse shows that: God's Presence is Everywhere: It highlights God’s active involvement in the world, even when people aren’t directly seeking Him. He’s always there, and he’s open to being asked for help. People are Vulnerable: It points out that humans are often looking for answers and solutions from any source – even a powerful leader like Pharaoh. In short, it’s a reminder that God is listening to people, and He's available to offer help. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail? Discuss what it might mean for the Israelites' situation at the time?

Definition: When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make [them] know the statutes of God, and his laws.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 18:16. It’s a really important passage about justice and understanding God’s rules. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: "When someone has a problem or disagreement, God directly intervenes to help them understand and follow his laws." Let's unpack that a little further: “When they have a matter…” : This refers to times when people are facing challenges – disagreements, disputes, or situations where there’s a need for guidance. “…they come unto me…” : This is a figurative way of saying God is involved in these situations. He's not physically there , but he’s actively guiding and helping. "...and I judge between one and another…" : This is the core of the verse. God isn’t just passively observing; he's actively looking at the situation and making a decision. He’s deciding who needs to understand and follow God’s rules. “…and I do make [them] know the statutes of God, and his laws.” : This is the most important part. God teaches people about His laws (the commandments or rules that are important for right living). He makes sure they understand what those laws actually mean – not just on paper, but in a practical way. In short, it’s about God showing people his wisdom and justice through direct intervention when there's a need for guidance. It highlights that God wants to help people live right and follow His will. Why is this important? This story is often seen as an example of God’s careful watchfulness over humanity. It shows that God isn’t just interested in what we do, but also how we do it – ensuring fairness and righteousness. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give a real-world example of this principle?

Definition: And Moses’ father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest [is] not good.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 18:17. It’s a really important and somewhat challenging passage about leadership and responsibility. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that Moses’s father-in-law was warning him – and essentially, us – that he was making a mistake. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Moses father-in law” : This refers to Aaron, one of Moses' closest friends and advisors. “said unto him” : Aaron is speaking directly to Moses. “The thing that thou doest [is] not good” : This is the key part. Aaron isn’t saying exactly what Moses was doing wrong; he’s using a metaphor. It means that whatever Moses was doing – and this is a huge deal in the Bible – wasn't morally right or beneficial. What does it mean practically? This verse highlights several important things: Responsibility: It emphasizes that we all have responsibilities, and those responsibilities need to be carefully considered. Judgment & Consequences: The verse implies that Moses’s actions could lead to negative consequences for both him and potentially others. It suggests there are repercussions for wrongdoing. Guidance Needed: It's a call for guidance. Aaron isn't saying, "You must do this." He’s urging Moses to think critically about his choices and seek wisdom. Why is it significant? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of arrogance and self-righteousness. It’s a reminder that even someone with great authority (like Moses) needs to be mindful of their actions and strive for righteousness. It's a call for humility and thoughtful consideration of our choices. In short, it’s telling us to be aware of what we are doing, and to consider the potential consequences. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Explore a related idea (like leadership or morality)?

Definition: Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that [is] with thee: for this thing [is] too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 18:18. It’s a really important and somewhat difficult passage about the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that the Israelites are facing a monumental challenge – they’re struggling to lead and manage themself, and it's proving to be incredibly difficult for them to do on their own. It highlights a serious problem with their leadership and organization. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that [is] with thee” : This is a powerful metaphor. "Wear away" means to slowly degrade or decline over time. “Both thou, and this people that [is] with thee” – this refers to the Israelites themselves. It suggests their own strength, ability, and perhaps even their own spirit are being diminished by this situation. “for this thing is too heavy for thee” : This is the core of the message. The task at hand – leading and managing the Israelites – is too much for them to handle alone. It’s a huge burden, and they're failing to meet it. “Thou art not able to perform it thyself alone” : This emphasizes the gravity of the situation. They are incapable of completing this task without outside help or assistance. In simpler terms: The Israelites are struggling with a difficult situation that requires more support and leadership than they possess, and they’re failing to succeed because they can't handle it on their own. What does this mean practically? It points to several things: Lack of Leadership: The verse often speaks about the need for strong, capable leaders who can guide and direct a people effectively. Poor Organization: The situation suggests that the Israelites’ organization and management weren't sound enough. Overall Significance: This is a sobering reminder that leadership isn’t just about having authority; it’s also about possessing the skills, wisdom, and strength to overcome challenges. It emphasizes the importance of humility, seeking help when needed, and recognizing our limitations. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its historical context (why was this a significant moment)? Connect it to other biblical stories or themes?