Pointing to Jesus (Exodus 17)

Summary:

In Exodus 17, the Israelites, camping at Rephidim, complain to Moses about the lack of water. 

God instructs Moses to strike a rock at Horeb with his staff, and water flows out for the people to drink. 

The place is named Massah and Meribah due to their testing and quarreling with the Lord. 

Later, the Amalekites attack Israel; Joshua leads the fight while Moses, with Aaron and Hur’s help, holds up his hands with the staff of God, ensuring victory as long as his hands are raised.

Pointing to Jesus:

The water from the rock in Exodus 17 foreshadows Christ as the spiritual rock who provides living water for eternal life, as referenced in 1 Corinthians 10:4. John Calvin emphasizes this typological connection: “But though God branded the people for their malignity and perversity, with a lasting mark of ignominy, yet did He afford them an extraordinary proof of His goodness, not only in bestowing on them the drink by which their bodies might be refreshed, but by honoring their souls also with spiritual drink, as Paul testifies, (1 Corinthians 10:4,) “that rock was Christ,” and therefore he compares the water which flowed from it to the cup of the holy supper.” 

Reflection:

Exodus 17 teaches Christians about trusting God’s provision in times of need and the power of intercession in spiritual battles. 

Just as the rock provided water amid complaint, Christ quenches our spiritual thirst through faith, reminding us to turn to Him rather than grumble. 

The victory over Amalek highlights the importance of perseverance in prayer and community support, encouraging believers to uphold one another in the ongoing fight against sin and adversity, relying on God’s strength for triumph.