Exodus 18
Difficult Questions and Answers
Exodus 18:1 calls Moses’ father-in-law “Jethro,” yet Exodus 2:18 refers to him as “Reuel.” Are these two names for the same person, or is this a contradiction?

If Jethro was a Midianite priest (Exodus 18:1), how could he seemingly embrace Yahweh while Midianites appear as enemies in other passages?

Why would Moses need leadership advice from a non-Israelite (Exodus 18:13–26) after direct guidance from God elsewhere in Exodus?

Is there any historical or archaeological evidence outside the Bible that supports the judicial structure described in Exodus 18:21–22?

Why does Exodus 18:12 lack priestly procedures or tabernacle sacrifices, unlike later instructions, when Jethro offers sacrifices with Israelite elders?

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jethro's reaction to Moses' recount of God's works teach us about acknowledging God’s power?

2. How can we apply the principle of sharing responsibilities in our own lives?

3. How did Moses' humility contribute to his acceptance of Jethro's advice?

4. What qualities did Jethro suggest looking for in the leaders Moses should appoint? How can we use these criteria in selecting leaders today?

5. How does Jethro's advice reflect the wisdom of God?

6. How can we ensure that we are open to receiving advice from others, just like Moses was open to Jethro's counsel?

7. In what ways can we apply Jethro's advice to manage burdens in our lives?

8. How does Moses' testimony to Jethro inspire us to share our testimonies with others?

9. How important is it to maintain family connections in light of Moses' relationship with Jethro?

10. How did Jethro's recognition of God's supremacy manifest in his actions?

11. What lessons on leadership can we learn from Moses' and Jethro's interaction?

12. How does the principle of delegation promote peace and harmony in a community?

13. How does Jethro's wisdom reflect on his role as a priest?

14. In our present society, how can we discern when to handle situations ourselves and when to delegate to others?

15. How can we, like Moses, ensure we are patient and unbiased when mediating disputes?

16. In what ways does Jethro's counsel enhance the effectiveness of Moses' leadership?

17. Why do you think Moses readily accepted Jethro's advice?

18. What can we learn from the respectful and loving relationship between Moses and Jethro?

19. How does this chapter challenge your understanding of leadership?

20. How can Jethro's acknowledgment of God's greatness inspire us to recognize God's works in our lives?



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Exodus 17
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