Pentateuch

The Pentateuch (Torah) is the first part of the Old Testament, five books: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Hebrew “Torah” means “law” and “instruction.” It holds God’s covenant with Israel, the exodus and wilderness journey, and God’s law.

Background of writing

• Author and inspiration — God is the original author; Moses wrote under God’s inspiration (2 Tim. 3:16). Some scholars propose documentary theories, yet Scripture is the written Word of God.
• Date — Written during the forty years in the wilderness after the exodus from Egypt (c. 1446 BC), before Moses died on Mount Nebo (c. 1406 BC).
• Historical setting — After about 400 years of slavery in Egypt, God delivered Abraham’s descendants, they crossed the Red Sea, received the law at Sinai, and journeyed through the wilderness until just before entering the promised land.

Purpose of writing

• God taught chosen Israel their origin, the exodus, and the covenant, and the law and ordinances (sacrifice, feasts, purity) to keep in the promised land.
• He laid down the principles they must keep as they sought their homeland in the wilderness, and the foundation of a priestly nation.
• Ultimately this Word is not for Israel only but for saints redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. It is commandment and guide for God’s people today as they pass through a spiritual wilderness hoping for rest and heaven; the blessings written in the law mirror what will be fulfilled in the Lord’s kingdom.

Choose a book below to listen to the exposition sermons in order.