Exodus 1:7-22 And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty… I. GOD'S BLESSING MAKES FRUITFUL 1. The promise to Abraham (Genesis 17:2-8). 2. The number of the Israelites in Egypt (vers. 9, 10). II. Note the MISTAKES COMMITTED THROUGH PREJUDICE. 1. The Egyptians hated and spurned the Israelites; therefore, ultimately, lost the blessing of their presence. 2. Statesmanship fails in placing policy before principle. 3. Cruelty begot enmity; kindness would have won. III. SELFISHNESS SOON FORGETS PAST FAVOURS. A new ruler disregarded the claims of Joseph's seed. This world works for present and prospective favours. IV. Here is A TYPE OF THE GROWTH OF SIN. The Israelites came into the best part of Egypt; first pleasant, then doubtful, then oppressed, then finally enslaved. 1. Sin yields bitter fruit. 2. We have taskmasters in our habit. 3. Life becomes a burden: sorrows of servitude. V. Note the REASON FOR THIS AFFLICTION. 1. They were becoming idolatrous (Joshua 24:14; Ezekiel 20:5-8). 2. Bitterness now would help to prevent return to Egypt. 3. We sometimes find sorrow here that we may look above. VI. GOD'S FAVOUR HERE CONTRASTED WITH MAN'S OPPOSITION. Pharaoh failed; the Israelities multiplied. VII. AFFLICTION HELPS US. 1. As afflicted, so they grew. 2. Christ purgeth us for more fruit. 3. Self-denial is the path to power. (Dr. Fowler.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with them. |
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