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Sermon
Studies in The Book 4 (Part 4)
TEXT: Exodus 1: 8-22
INTRODUCTION
One of the questions that has troubled minds over the ages is the reason for suffering. Believers
might answer the question with a single answer: sin. But that will be too general a response.
Looking inwardly, the passage before us provides some clues to the problem of suffering,
oppression, persecution, and enslavement. These clues could serve as road markers to assist us
identify oppressors and the oppressed, and how we might be of help at any time (Ecc. 4:1; Isa. 5:7;
Eze. 22:29-30). May the Lord empower us to confront evil in any form and be an agent of peace in
our time in the name of Jesus.
OUTLINE
1. Why oppressions and sufferings?
2. How should we respond to oppressions?
1. Why oppressions and sufferings? According to the scriptural reference, the reigning Pharaoh manifested ignorance about Joseph and his contributions to Egypt’s national deliverance (v. 8). This mind-disease is a result of not knowing the value and dignity of human life and the divine origin of human race (Acts 17:26-29; Rom. 14:11-13). There was also lack of self-esteem that nurtured fear among the Egyptians. Nations subjugate other nations or their citizens in order to frustrate the innate ability to manifest their potentials (vs. 9-10). According to Lord Acton, “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men…”. Pushing in the same direction but throwing more light on our path, David Brin comments, “It is said that power corrupts, but actually it’s more true that power attracts the corruptible. The sane are usually attracted by other things than power.”
2. How should we respond to oppressions? It’s necessary to note that how we respond to a situation is more important than the situation. Those who are at the receiving end of political or religious oppressions must respond positively - refuse to be put under, don’t allow the enemy to reduce you physically, spiritually, and emotional. Represent your God as the all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving and the great Rewarder. As believers, our lives must add value wherever we go and helpers like the midwives will manifest to help our destiny (v. 12; Gen. 17:1; 26:2-3, 12-14; 28:13- 15; 41:39-44).
CONCLUSION
It may not be out of place to state that those who seek power through the ballot box, organizational
hierarchy, or ecclesiastical roles might not be doing so for altruistic purpose, but for personal
aggrandizement. At the end of the day, power may not only corrupt, it could be revealing the
personality behind the facade.
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