Exodus 17:8-18:27 - Limited Leaders and an Unlimited God

Text: Exodus 17:8-18:27

Big Idea: An unlimited God uses limited leaders so that all His people share in His redemptive work.

1. God uses weak shoulders to distribute his might (17:8-16)

2. God brings in an outsider to lead His leaders in worship. (18:1-12)

3. God relieves a weary judge to establish justice throughout His people. (18:13-27)

Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think God tied Israel’s victory to Moses’ raised hands? What was He teaching His people about dependence on Him and shared responsibility?

2. How did Jethro, an outsider, play a significant role in leading God’s people in worship? What does this teach us about how God uses unlikely people for His purposes? Who in your life might seem like an “outsider” but might have a role in God’s work?

3. Why was Moses’ leadership approach described as “not good” by Jethro? What happens when leaders fail to delegate responsibility to others? How does Christ show us a better way?

4. God’s redemptive work involves every believer, not just a select few. Are there areas in your life where you need to step up, share responsibility, or empower others? What’s one step you can take this week to better align with God’s design for shared responsibility?

5. If you are feeling discouraged in your discipleship relationships, what are some resources God has given you to help? How can you use those resources and find your rest in Christ?