(Tuesday 3/04/08) The Midwives (Shiphrah & Puah) / Jochebed - Day 2

1. From Exodus 1:15-21, describe the blessings that came to the people of Israel through the obedience of the two midwives. What blessing did God grant these two women?

2. What new evil did the king of Egypt order for the children of Israel in Exodus 1:22?

3. Who was to be actively involved in this great evil?

4. In the New Testament as well as the Old, God has instructed us to obey the earthly authorities placed over us. What can we learn from the following passages about the supreme authority and how to use sound knowledge and wisdom when dealing with the authority of man?
a. Romans 13:1-5

b. 1 Peter 2:13-17

c. Daniel 3:16-18

d. Acts 4:19, 5:29

(If you have a Strong's Concordance or a Bible with a concordance, look up the names of Shiphrah and Puah, and write out their meanings below.)

a. Shiphrah (#8236)

b. Puah (#6326)

Shiphrah and Puah were Hebrew midwives (from the line of Shem, or the Semite clan). During the time when Joseph became powerful, the rulers in Egypt were also from a Semitic background; they were called Hyksos. They took leadership during Joseph's time, but in Exodus 1 a new ruler came to power who was most likely fully Egyptian in lineage. This might explain his hatred of the Hebrews or those from the line of Shem. Shiphrah and Puah, being Hebrew, were allied with the Israelites rather than the Egyptians. This particular family line was the one God chose to be His people. Through them the Messiah of promise would come. Thus we see God's powerful hand working in history to bring about His plan.

LESSONS AND APPLICATIONS

1. It is God who establishes the household. Who is the ruler in your household?

2. God's law is supreme in authority. How can you be obedient in honoring God as the supreme authority and still be a witness through honoring the laws that rule you in your home, community, and nation?

3. God honors faithfulness. How have you been faithful to God? How, in His mercy and grace, has He blessed you?