From the Pulpit: The Red Sea

By Rev. Mike Scott

“And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt: but God led the people about, through the way of the wilderness of the Red sea: and the children of Israel went up harnessed out of the land of Egypt.”— Exodus 13:17–18, KJV

Virtually every student of Scripture is familiar with the account of God’s deliverance of His people from Egyptian bondage. Though Moses was once both a murderer—having killed an Egyptian in anger—and a fugitive who fled Egypt to escape punishment, God nevertheless spoke to him from the burning bush and commissioned him to return and lead His people out. That task is now complete. Yet instead of guiding Israel along the most direct and well-traveled route, God leads them into the wilderness toward the Red Sea.

The Lord knew that at the first sign of conflict the people might panic and return to Egypt. In mercy, He chose a safer path. Soon, however, the children of Israel find themselves standing at the banks of the Red Sea—a place that represents three realities they must face.

The Red Sea as a Test

First, the Red Sea is a test for the children of Israel, and sadly, they fail it. As Pharaoh and his army pursue them, Scripture tells us that Israel lifted up their eyes, saw the Egyptians marching after them, and became greatly afraid. They cried out to the Lord and complained bitterly to Moses:

“Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness?” (Exodus 14:11).

Instead of rejoicing in their newfound freedom, they murmured and complained when circumstances turned frightening.

This test is, first of all, a test of faith. While still in Egypt, Israel had witnessed extraordinary demonstrations of God’s power—the ten plagues that humbled Pharaoh and devastated the land. The God who turned water into blood and sent hail mingled with fire was surely able to deliver them now. Yet rather than trusting Him, the people regretted leaving Egypt.

Second, the Red Sea is a test of faithfulness. Israel had to decide whether they would remain loyal to the Lord or retreat to the familiarity of bondage. Shockingly, they declared they would rather serve the Egyptians than trust the living God. They failed to understand that God is faithful in both favorable and fearful circumstances.

David reminds us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me” (Psalm 23:4). The key word is through. Whatever God allows into our lives, He is able to bring us through it. The same Lord who delivered the three Hebrew children from the fiery furnace and Daniel from the lions’ den remains able to deliver His people today.

Third, the Red Sea is a test of determination. Rather than standing firm, Israel quickly buckled under pressure. Yet God’s people are called to persevere to the end (Matthew 10:22) and to be strong and courageous (2 Chronicles 32:7). Faith is proven not by ease, but by endurance.

The Red Sea as a Triumph

The Red Sea is not only a test; it is also a place of triumph. As Pharaoh’s army draws near, God becomes a cloud of darkness to the Egyptians while providing light to His people by night (Exodus 14:20). All night long, the Lord drives back the sea with a strong east wind. At dawn, Israel sees the waters parted and escapes on dry ground. When the Egyptians attempt to follow, the sea returns to its place and overwhelms them.

First, the Red Sea is a triumph over Egyptian oppression. After four hundred years of bondage, Israel is finally free. No longer are they slaves under the taskmaster’s whip. Likewise, though the world remains harsh and filled with trials, Christ encourages us with these words: “Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Second, the Red Sea is a triumph over Egypt’s army. Pharaoh’s forces are completely destroyed. Though Satan commands an army of demons bent on destruction, God commands a far greater heavenly host. When Elisha and his servant were surrounded by the Syrian army, God opened the servant’s eyes to see the mountain filled with horses and chariots of fire (2 Kings 6:17). God’s power always surpasses the enemy’s strength.

Third, the Red Sea is a triumph over Egypt’s gods. The plagues revealed their utter helplessness. The Nile turned to blood. Crops were destroyed. Darkness fell despite worship of the sun god. Even Pharaoh’s firstborn died. The events at the Red Sea declare without question that there is no God but Jehovah—sovereign and supreme.

The Red Sea as a Turning Point

Finally, the Red Sea is a turning point. It marks the dividing line between what Israel leaves behind and what lies ahead.

They leave behind defeat. Once slaves living in discouragement and hardship, they now move forward in victory. They also leave behind discouragement, as their hope and confidence are restored. Christ came that we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). As new creatures in Christ, old things pass away and all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Bondage is also left behind. Israel is no longer enslaved under the Egyptian sun. Likewise, believers have been delivered from the bondage of sin through Christ, who has lifted us from the miry clay and set our feet upon the Solid Rock.

What lies ahead? Though the future is uncertain, it can be trusted to a known God. God is already present in our tomorrows. Israel will face challenges, but God will provide—water from the rock, manna from heaven, and victory over enemies. Every challenge becomes an opportunity for divine intervention.

Above all, the Promised Land awaits them—the inheritance pledged to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Likewise, believers look forward to a heavenly home secured by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Earthly homes are temporary; heaven is eternal. Earthly bodies are frail; glorified bodies will never fail. Our time here is brief, but eternity with God is endless.

God makes no mistakes. He led Israel to the Red Sea for a purpose. It became a test, a triumph, and a turning point. So it is in our lives today. We can face challenges with faith and courage, experience the victory Christ has won, and live confidently knowing our past is behind us and a glorious future lies ahead—both now and forever.