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Jethro’s Observation and Query

Text: Exodus 18:13-27
28 July 2015

JETHRO’S OBSERVATION AND QUERY

(Exodus 18:13-14)

1. Moses ministered from morning to evening

2. He ministered alone

3. Jethro’s query

a) What is this thing that you are doing for the people?
b) Why do you alone sit, and all the people stand before you from morning until evening?

MOSES’ EXPLANATION

(Exodus 18:15-16)

1. People come to enquire of God

2. They come for judgment/ arbitration

3. The laws and statutes of God are made known

JETHRO’S FEEDBACK AND ADVICE

(Exodus 18:17-23)

1. Evaluation of the ministry of Moses

a) Not good
b) Both Moses and the people would be worn out
c) This work cannot be done by one person

2. Good counsel

a) Teach the people laws and statues of God
b) Show them the work they must do
c) Select good people
i) Able men
ii) Fearing God
iii) Men of truth
iv) Hating covetousness
d) These are to be appointed as leaders/ judges
They will after small matters
i) Over thousands
ii) Over hundreds
iii) Over fifties
iv) Over tens

3. Moses

a) Ask to consider these words of advice
b) He should consult God for His approval

MOSES GIVES HEED TO JETHRO’S ADVICE

(Exodus 18:24-27)

1. He gave heed to what Jethro said

2. Able men chosen and appointed

3. The easier matters were judged by them

4. The harder matters were brought to the attention of Moses