Free group study handout
Exodus 23: Group Study Handout
How to use: read Exodus 23 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
False witnesses are prohibited. The people must not spread false reports or join wickedness in court (vv. 1-3).
Key verse
“You shall not deny justice to your poor people in their lawsuits.”
Exodus 23:6 (WEB)
Outline
- Exodus 23:1–3 Prohibition of False Witness
- Exodus 23:4–5 Compassion for Enemies' Animals
- Exodus 23:6–8 Justice and Bribery
- Exodus 23:9–12 Care for the Alien and Sabbath Rest
- Exodus 23:13–19 Religious Observances and Sacrifices
- Exodus 23:20–26 God's Promises and Protection
- Exodus 23:27–33 Conquest and Separation from Idols
Discussion questions
- In v4, what should you do if you meet your enemy’s 'ox' going astray?
- What does v9 say about the treatment of an 'alien'?
- In v22, what does it mean to listen to the angel’s 'voice'?
- In v30, why does God say He will drive out the inhabitants 'little by little'?
- When have you chosen to help someone, like in v5, even if they are your enemy?
Go deeper
Passages that echo Exodus 23: Joshua 23, Deuteronomy 7, Joshua 24.
Before next time: read Exodus 24.