How does Exodus 18:20 connect to Jesus' teachings on discipleship? Setting the Scene in Exodus 18 Exodus 18 records Moses’ interaction with his father-in-law Jethro. After hearing of God’s mighty acts, Jethro advises Moses on structuring leadership, climaxing with a concise picture of covenant life: “And you shall teach them the statutes and the laws, and show them the way in which they must walk and the work they must do.” (Exodus 18:20) Three commands surface: • Teach God’s statutes. • Show the way to walk. • Show the work to do. Jesus Echoes the Same Pattern Jesus’ call to disciples is strikingly parallel, expanding Moses’ outline into kingdom terms. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” • Teach — identical priority: transmit divine instruction. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” • Way — Jesus embodies and reveals the path Exodus 18:20 describes. “If anyone desires to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” • Work — a life of self-denial and obedience, not mere belief. Shared Elements: Teach, Walk, Work Teach • Exodus: Moses instructs Israel. • Gospels: Jesus teaches crowds, commissions apostles, and sends the Spirit to guide into all truth (John 16:13). Walk • Exodus: “the way in which they must walk.” • Gospels: Disciples literally and spiritually follow Jesus’ steps (Mark 1:17; 1 John 2:6). Work • Exodus: “the work they must do.” • Gospels: Kingdom labor—proclaiming good news, serving the needy, bearing fruit (Luke 10:1-9; John 15:8). Practical Discipleship Links • Scripture-Centered Life – As Moses pointed Israel to God’s statutes, Jesus roots discipleship in His word (John 8:31-32). • Visible Example – Moses “shows” the way; Jesus lives it perfectly, inviting imitation (1 Peter 2:21). • Active Obedience – Both passages refuse arm-chair faith. Doing the work evidences genuine learning (James 1:22). Why the Connection Matters Today Exodus 18:20 isn’t an antiquated leadership memo; it lays a template fulfilled in Christ. Disciples who … • learn Scripture, • follow the Way, and • serve in kingdom work stand in continuity with Israel’s call and Jesus’ commission, embodying God’s timeless design for His people. |
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