Exodus 1:7

but the Israelites were fruitful and increased rapidly; they multiplied and became exceedingly numerous, so that the land was filled with them.

Study Bible

but the Israelites were fruitful and increased rapidly;
This phrase echoes the creation mandate given to Adam and Eve in Genesis 1:28, where God commands humanity to "be fruitful and multiply." The Israelites' rapid increase is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:2 and 15:5, where He assures Abraham that his descendants will be as numerous as the stars. This growth signifies God's blessing and faithfulness to His covenant people. The Hebrew word for "fruitful" (פָּרָה, parah) is often associated with divine blessing and prosperity, indicating that the Israelites' multiplication was under God's providential care.

they multiplied and became exceedingly numerous,
The multiplication of the Israelites is a testament to God's promise to make them a great nation. This phrase highlights the exponential growth of the Israelite population during their time in Egypt, which sets the stage for the events of the Exodus. The use of "exceedingly numerous" underscores the overwhelming presence of the Israelites in Egypt, which would later lead to the Egyptians' fear and subsequent oppression of them. This growth can be seen as a precursor to the fulfillment of God's plan to deliver His people and establish them in the Promised Land.

so that the land was filled with them.
The phrase "the land was filled with them" indicates the significant impact the Israelites had on the land of Egypt. This fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham also foreshadows the future occupation of the Promised Land by the Israelites. The land being "filled" with Israelites can be seen as a type of the future Kingdom of God, where God's people will inhabit the earth. This phrase also sets the stage for the tension between the Egyptians and the Israelites, as the Egyptians begin to perceive the Israelites as a threat due to their vast numbers. This tension ultimately leads to the enslavement of the Israelites, setting the stage for God's redemptive work through Moses, a type of Christ, who will lead His people out of bondage.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob (Israel), who were living in Egypt at this time. They were experiencing significant population growth.

2. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were residing. Initially a place of refuge during a famine, it became a place of oppression as the Israelites grew in number.

3. Joseph
Though not mentioned directly in this verse, Joseph's earlier role in bringing his family to Egypt sets the stage for the events in Exodus. His leadership and God's providence led to the Israelites' initial settlement in Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
The growth of the Israelites in Egypt is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Despite being in a foreign land, God's covenantal promises are being realized.

Blessing in Adversity
Even in a land that would soon become oppressive, the Israelites experienced God's blessing. This reminds us that God's purposes can prevail even in difficult circumstances.

The Power of Multiplication
The exponential growth of the Israelites serves as a reminder of the power of multiplication in God's kingdom. Small beginnings can lead to significant outcomes when God is at work.

Preparation for Deliverance
The increase in numbers set the stage for the eventual deliverance of the Israelites. God's timing and preparation are perfect, even when we cannot see the full picture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the growth of the Israelites in Egypt reflect God's promises to Abraham, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's blessings in our lives, even when we are in challenging or uncomfortable situations?

3. How does the concept of being "fruitful and multiplying" apply to our spiritual lives and the growth of the church today?

4. What can we learn from the Israelites' experience in Egypt about trusting God's timing and preparation for deliverance?

5. How can we apply the lessons of God's faithfulness and blessing in adversity to our current circumstances, and what other scriptures support this understanding?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:28
The command to "be fruitful and multiply" given to Adam and Eve is echoed in the Israelites' growth, showing God's continued blessing and fulfillment of His creation mandate.

Genesis 12:2
God's promise to Abraham to make him a great nation is being realized as the Israelites multiply in Egypt.

Acts 7:17
Stephen's speech in the New Testament references the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham as the Israelites multiplied in Egypt.