Epoch 3

What does it mean for God to be a deliverer? Can a nation enslaved and hopeless find freedom and purpose again? Epoch 3 of Tracing His Story vividly captures one of the most pivotal and dramatic moments in biblical history: the Exodus. Journey with us from the anguish of slavery in Egypt through the miracles and trials of the wilderness, witnessing firsthand how God reveals His unmatched power, enduring faithfulness, and deep desire for relationship.

Genesis closed with Jacob’s family—seventy people—settling peacefully in Egypt. But as generations passed, their peaceful refuge turned into brutal oppression. By the time Exodus begins, these descendants of Abraham had grown numerous, provoking fear in the Egyptians, who subjected them to harsh slavery. Yet, even under ruthless oppression, God’s promise remained alive, quietly unfolding through His providential care.

Into this bleakness, a baby named Moses was born, miraculously preserved through Pharaoh’s desperate edict to kill Hebrew infants. Raised in Pharaoh’s palace yet deeply connected to his Hebrew roots, Moses was uniquely prepared to become God’s instrument of deliverance. After fleeing Egypt and spending decades in Midian, Moses encountered God through a burning bush that blazed without being consumed. In this remarkable moment, God revealed His personal name, “I AM WHO I AM” [Exodus 3:14], signifying His eternal existence, boundless power, and unfailing presence.

God’s message to Pharaoh, delivered through Moses, was simple yet profound: “Let my people go.” Pharaoh’s stubborn refusal led to a dramatic showdown—the ten devastating plagues. Each plague systematically confronted Egypt’s false gods, demonstrating God’s absolute sovereignty over creation. Rivers turned to blood, frogs invaded, darkness covered the land, and ultimately, the death of Egypt’s firstborn shook Pharaoh’s resolve. Through these miracles, God’s glory was vividly displayed, forcing Egypt—and the watching Israelites—to recognize His supreme authority.

The night of Israel’s departure was marked by the Passover. God provided a means of protection from the final plague through the blood of a sacrificial lamb, symbolizing redemption and pointing forward to the ultimate Lamb, Jesus Christ. With Pharaoh finally broken, the Israelites marched toward freedom, only to find themselves trapped at the edge of the Red Sea. In one of the most iconic miracles in Scripture, God parted the waters, allowing Israel to walk safely to freedom, while Pharaoh’s mighty army drowned behind them.

Their first act as freed people? Worship. Spontaneous songs erupted, celebrating God’s unmatched power and faithfulness. Yet the wilderness journey revealed a challenging reality: freedom required learning trust. Despite witnessing God’s miraculous deliverance, Israel repeatedly struggled, grumbling about food, water, and uncertainties ahead. But at every turn, God faithfully provided—manna from heaven, water from rocks, and His protective presence guiding them day and night.

At Mount Sinai, God called Israel into a special relationship—a covenant—making them His treasured possession. Here, He provided the Ten Commandments and detailed instructions, teaching them how to live as a holy nation, different from Egypt, distinct from any other people. These laws were not burdensome but life-giving, intended to shape Israel into a nation defined by love—love for God and love for others.

Yet, despite God’s faithful care, Israel’s journey to the Promised Land would extend far longer than anticipated. Repeated rebellion and unbelief resulted in forty years of wandering. But even in this wilderness discipline, God’s mercy shone brightly, sustaining and shaping His people, patiently preparing them for the future ahead.

Epoch 3 invites you into this extraordinary narrative of deliverance, provision, and covenant love. Discover how God’s rescue of Israel points powerfully to His ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. Watch now to encounter afresh the God who delivers, sustains, and faithfully leads us from slavery into freedom and promise.