House of Bondage
The Word is perfectly intricate, like a huge puzzle that as we put it together, by the guidance of the Spirit, it teaches, reveals, and explains the things of God. One verse links to another through the words and symbolism. It’s complex and perfect. I’m coming across some intriguing similarities between what I see happening among God’s people and what happened in the exodus out of Egypt. Here I’ll dive into some of them.
Exodus out of Egypt, House of Bondage
Egypt was once a place of refuge for God’s people. Under Joseph’s leadership, who is symbolic of Christ in various ways, God’s people were protected and provided for while a famine consumed the land. Through Joseph’s provision, Egypt had plenty of bread. During the Israelites stay, they grew in strength and in numbers. But as time passed, new rulers came into reign. Instead of helping the Israelites to prosper, they were hard task masters and put them under bondage. The Israelites were their workers to carry out their will. They were a large and free workforce for building the Egyptian empire. Egypt became spiritually know as the house of bondage. Exodus 13:14 The Israelites cried out to God because of the bondage, and in time God sent Moses. Moses not only delivered them but also ushered in a new covenant between God and His people.
Moses asked Pharaoh to let God’s people go so they could serve God in the wilderness. Exodus 7:16 Pharaoh resisted as his heart was hardened. Moses performed signs and wonders and Pharaoh’s magicians copied them trying to destroy the credibility of Moses. When Pharaoh continued to resist, God sent a barrage of plagues upon Egypt. The last plague was the angel of death passing through the land and killing all of the first born. God’s people were saved from the plague by eating unleavened bread and by putting the blood of a lamb on their doorposts. Exodus 12:15, Exodus 12:7 When the angel of death passed through the land, the cries of the Egyptians filled the air and Pharaoh finally let them go. The Israelites left the house of bondage following the voice of their shepherd, Moses, into the wilderness where it was just them and God. God instructed, taught, lead, protected, and provided. Joshua 24:14, 17
The journey through the wilderness for the Israelites served the purpose of learning about God, His ways and learning to trust and follow Him alone. God became their God. When they got scared, they cried out and God provided. But when God wasn’t providing as they desired, they wanted to go back to Egypt. They would be in bondage but at least they would be comfortable. But Moses encouraged them and God continue to show them His mercy. And for those who endured and trusted God at His Word, they entered into the Promise land.
Exodus out of the Corrupted Church System, House of Bondage
The Church System (CS), as a whole, was once a place of refuge for God’s people. For a time, God’s people grew in strength and in numbers, as the true bread, the Word, was plentiful. But as time passed and brought different leaders, new agendas came into play. They started to rule over God’s people and the true bread started to disappear. The leaders became task masters putting church goers in bondage to carry out their will. In many situations it wasn’t done maliciously or intentionally, but came about because of a lack of focus on the pure Word. It was about “good” works, programs, increasing numbers, and entertainment all in the name of God. All the while the CS grew strong and powerful, and mega churches became the new beastly goal. Cultivating true intimacy and discipleship with God in His Word was set aside for “greater” efforts. In time, some of God’s people cried out to God. And God responded by calling them out of bondage by Jesus, The Word, to meet with Him one-on-one in the wilderness to be taught, feed, protected and provided by Him. Ezekiel 34:22-27.
God is calling His people, the true Church, to Him in truth and spirit to His Word. Saints are gathering together in spirit to His Word as God is revealing Himself in powerful ways through His Word. Joe in Montana, Lucy in Nebraska, and John in Kentucky are leaving the CS that has become corrupted, clinging to God’s Word and seeking like-minded believers. I see this growing movement throughout the blogs I read. God is calling His true Church together in an incredible and unexpected way. They are coming together in the wilderness, out of Egypt, the house of bondage. Some are gathering in homes or small fellowships where God is truly the head and where the Word of God is at the center – not programs, church empires, or pastor’s salaries.
Judgment is coming upon the Church System, and perhaps is already upon it, as it did upon Egypt. In Revelation, we see the spiritual connection between Egypt and Jerusalem. Revelation 11:8 Sodom is also included to give us another hint of what the future holds. In the Bible, Jerusalem often symbolizes God’s people. This great city is called the Great Harlot in Revelation. Revelation 17:18 Throughout the Bible, God’s straying people are often referred to as harlots. It says she will be judged for her actions against God with plagues. Revelation 18:8. Interestingly, the plagues of Egypt and in Revelation have many similarities – and the language connects the two together to lead us to seek a deeper understanding. Ezekiel 6:11, 18:30, 24:21, Revelation 18:2-4
Just as Pharaoh resisted the call, so do many leaders in the churches and are leading many astray as people are mistakenly trusting in their counsel. Ezekiel 34:10 As Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, so are the hearts of many so they can’t hear or see the truth. Like the magicians, many false prophets are filling the churches to mislead people from the truth. Darkness is overtaking their understanding for a lack of love for the truth. They are working out of their own counsel and not God’s. As a result, they are being given over to a strong delusion. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11 But those who attune to God’s voice will be protected by Him. Those who truly have the blood of the lamb, reflected in a relationship with Christ (Matthew 7:22-23), and have been eating of the unleavened bread (pure word of God not infiltrated with the lies of men) will be sensitive to His call and be protected. Revelation 18:4. They know their Shepherd’s voice from abiding in His Word. They will follow Him into the wilderness (outside the church system) as the people followed Moses to be led by God and taught, provided and protected by Him. And God will provide in every way by His mighty hand.
Coming into the wilderness isn’t easy. To hear the call to follow the Shepherd is sometimes filled with doubts and fears. And some are tempted to return back to the CS for comfort and ease as they rationalize the bondage. But being with God, taught by Him, provided and protected by Him is a glorious experience. John 6:44-45 It isn’t one to fear but to embrace. And for those who do, they will not only be abiding with God because in the wilderness is where He is at, but they will see His mighty hand perform all things for them. Lamentations 2:7 I believe this journey leads into the promise land if we trust, follow and endure until the end.
Interesting isn’t it? The parallel?
These are challenging days. Our protection is having a love for the truth. John 8:31-32 We are to abide in the pure Word of God and trust the Spirit to teach us, who was given to us for this purpose. 1 John 2:27. It’s critical to have a foundation of truth in our lives built up by the Spirit so we can test other’s interpretations. 1 John 4:1 If you put the Word of God above all else, then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free and keep you free. Psalm 17:4, 2 Timothy 4:3
Living Light 
December 9, 2009 at 3:48 am
How true Rachel, every word you’ve written.
If only the leaders would get released. Most will not however and that’s why God is calling His people out.
The church loves to talk about love, but sadly, for far too many, it’s not love at all because there’s no love for truth. It broke Jeremiah’s heart too – Jeremiah 5:30-31.
I’m glad you’re tuned into the Holy Spirit.
Roger.
December 9, 2009 at 5:31 pm
Roger – thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. It is a difficult subject to talk about so I really appreciate your encouragement. And your right about love – there is no true love without the love of the truth – they go hand in hand.
December 10, 2009 at 4:28 am
Hi Rachel,
Well, i made it over here to your place! Was blessed to read this article, i agree wholeheartedly, this is what Jesus is doing with His people in these days. I agree, there were times in the past when churches, even if they weren’t fully Biblical, were safe places and places of love and relationship and sound teaching, but that’s very rare now; ‘leaders’ are nearly all under a spell.
http://ianvincent.wordpress.com/
December 10, 2009 at 5:26 pm
Ian – glad you stopped by. From your writings I knew we were like minded in this. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
December 10, 2009 at 11:12 pm
Rachel, this is a beautiful message that is worth every word that the Holy Spirit has directed you to do so. Faith is a powerful gift from God. We all must come closer to God in these trying times. The Lord of our salvation is waiting just for us. Thank you and God Bless your ministry in every way.
December 11, 2009 at 1:57 am
Dr. Lee – thanks so much for your words of encouragement.
December 10, 2009 at 11:52 pm
What a wonderful post Rachel. The children of God were blessed to leave the land of bondage through the grace of God. Your work is clearly directed by the Holy Spirit. God Bless in all that you do.
December 11, 2009 at 7:19 am
Hi Rachel. There’s so much truth in this post that it’s a challenge to comment in a few words. I guess that I’m kind of backwards from many saints in that I find myself closer to the Lord when I’m not present at the local fellowship. I love the saints at our local felloeship and the preaching is solid, but I find much more joy in the prayer closet, on the street sharing the gospel, or anywhere that the distractions of this world are minimalized. A dark starry night is priceless; although it’s been snowing and drifting for two days.
There is something about just being alone with the Lord. I love fellowship, (even though most saints seem to not understand me) but those times alone are priceless. Being alone with Jesus, rather it’s out beneath the indigo sky, laying in the grass on a summer afternoon, walking through the snow with a hefty wind at your back, or laying awake in bed while everyone is camping in the land of nod. Being with the Lord, pondering the deep things that many fear to consider, basking in the indescribable “contentment” and taking a journey to the land that will be our everlasting home.
Such moments as these cause one to realize much about what has become the CS. It’s a structure that seems more geared to bondage; just as you mention. Bondage to tradition, bondage to programs, bondage to the expectations of those whose thoughts rarely travel beyond the veil of atoms, and bondage to the myriad of worldly trappings that “nobody else seems to have a problem with.” When we get in close with the Lord Jesus and taste the pure liberty therein, all of the superfiscial elements that so many folks settle for, will leave us cold and longing for that silent night beneath the stars.
Sorry for rambling; it’s just that there are thoughts and observations which are hard to explain to most saints in my venue without getting the all too familiar uneasy stare followed by their seeking an exit from the conversation. CR mentioned about a presentation that he did at their church. In the midst of it, he somehow found himself talking about the globalist agenda and our having to endure in the days ahead. He told me “I was looking at my notes, but I could literally feel the uneasy stares.” (I would like to have been there)
NOw I’m REALLY RAMBLING so I’ll conclude here.
Blessings always in Jesus name.
timbob
December 11, 2009 at 5:18 pm
Timbob – thank you so much for sharing and I completely agree and feel the same experience – no blank stares here :-). You described it well and I hope others take time to read your thougths. I’ve connected with like-minded people in this area through the internet but not so much around me. It is such a joy to connect with you all who share a similar mindset.
December 11, 2009 at 9:28 pm
Hi Rachel, that was a very interesting and thought-provoking article. While I may not be totally there, I can understand so well what you are saying and I agree. I think that God is getting ready to raise up new leaders who will not all into the way of the world as do so many church leaders now. I do still attend a church service but focus most of my attention on small prayer groups and leadings that God has for me in ministry. I savor the teachings of the old-time preachers whose heart for God could not be questioned. The spoke the truth and would not compromise an inch. Most church systems cannot say the same thing.
December 12, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Marianne, I appreciate hearing your thoughts on this tough topic. Thanks for commenting.
December 12, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Rachel,
I have been in the CS for 30 years. 5 years ago I decided to start over. Having now found the life of which the CS claims we should have, I have to admit I am torn. While I was in the CS, I searched for this life but it always seemed just beyond my grasp. I burned myself out grasping. Knowing how much I hungered then for what I have found now, I see the CS as a huge mission field. Everyone there longs to see real life. But in the absence of it, the trod along doing the best they know how.
True there are some that are way off track and needs to be abandoned. But I believe there are many who just need a nucleous of people with life to show the rest that it exists. I just wrote a piece called ‘Two-a-days that relates to this. It has become my passion to see this take place.
I agree that we need to come out of the system, but it may not necessarily mean that we will come out of the church. Does that make sense?
Mike
December 13, 2009 at 5:57 pm
Mike, I appreciate your comments on this topic. I read your blog post. You brought up an important point that people have not tarried before the Lord. They rush into serving God before they are ready, usually pushed by those in the church. I was strongly pushed to do “some ministry” for years when I didn’t feel that call from God. So I sat, waited and enjoyed an incredible fellowship with Him – He ended up doing a lot of healing in me, taught me so much, and became my Rock – it made all the difference. We need great discernment from what we hear from others. It is a challenging area no doubt. Church goers are a huge mission field and one of the hardest. When you feel you are “okay” then you stop seeking. This is a big part of the battle, because many aren’t “okay” and are living a life far from what Christ came to give.
December 29, 2009 at 1:13 am
I agree the CS is a mission field, I believe there is much similarities to the synagogues the apostles went to share the gospel message with our CS today. I don’t believe that is a reason to stay within the system, unless God has been specific to that person or persons. I tried to do somethings in my previous church, I lead a bible study that was focused going through a book, reading and studying it in depth; verse by verse. Appealing to believers who were truly hungry to know His word…to know Christ. To follow him…to carry the cross…eat His flesh drink of His blood. As it went on…I was told that it is to intimidating. people don’t want to just pick a book and read…they want something light and fun…and relevant. I was told I was too serious. That some people won’t respond to that type of study. What they wanted was more of a club of guys that talked about the bible and also had movie or game night. To me, there is nothing more enjoyable, more exciting than just opening up the bible and reading…pouring over the scriptures. What I found out is most people don’t want to live like that, they want to read in sound bites and have “fellowship” night. They don’t know how to handle a person who wants to walk the walk, who wants spiritual things. A person like Tozer describes here: http://scottishwarriors.wordpress.com/2009/05/07/are-you-a-lonely-christian/
Of course I am not saying not to try…God will guide you where He wants you.
Mike
December 29, 2009 at 6:06 pm
Mike – we had almost the same experiene. We were a part of a small group and when the leader wasn’t there they asked my husband to lead it – he opened up the Bible and started diving in and he was told the exact same thing. That wasn’t the place for that kind of thing – too serious, they want to keep it light, fun and so on. Darkness is coming over the church system and many are being deceived in many ways – in general it isn’t a safe place.
December 22, 2009 at 12:15 am
Hi, Rachel.
Sorry I missed this, because it’s really good! We’re on satellite, and it hasn’t been working real well lately. Anyhow, thanks for your courage in posting this. I’m going to come right out and agree with you. It feels uncomfortably like criticizing brothers and sisters in the Lord, but it isn’t that. And I would be lying to say that I think the CS is just okay. It clearly isn’t.
True Christ followers will eventually be forced to leave it, whether because of its own apostasy or because of persecution. That’s not to say that God has quit working through the CS. He can work through anything. He’s GOD, after all. We’re not going to save the CS, though. God is moving on (or moving back) to something more intimate, more personal, more effective.
This is a great joy, because it will be a death knell on denominationalism. Is Christ divided? It would seem so, but via small, intimate gatherings of the church, I believe His fractured body will be brought back together. I see it happening. It is a beautiful thing to watch and an honor to participate in. A year and a half ago, I mourned because I could see absolutely no way that the church could be put back together again. Now I have hope, and I believe it is the kind of hope that doesn’t make us ashamed. It’s the God kind of hope–hope that will be brought to reality.
Thanks, Sis–you are a treasure.
Love, Cindy
December 22, 2009 at 1:05 am
Thanks Cindy. It is a tough topic but a very important one. You added some great points – I really appreciate you sharing your insights and thoughts. It really is exciting on many points what God is doing in drawing people near to Him and His Word in truth and Spirit.
December 29, 2009 at 12:50 am
“Darkness is overtaking their understanding for a lack of love for the truth. They are working out of their own counsel and not God’s.”
Amen…I believe this sums it up. When I think of my previous church, all I am reminded off is the lack of desire for the truth. It shadowed by the lure of atmosphere of excitement.
January 7, 2010 at 6:23 am
Hi Rachel.
Excellent writing. I am sad to say I am one of those with a problem CS. I like the thought about them needing a nucleus of people who do love, who do care, and if I may add, those who are not afraid to shine light on the darkness of false teachings. But as we are finding many don’t like that light.
I don’t know if I am staying where I have been for nearly a year or not. I was not to get involved (a first for me) for a year. But now just as I was thinking maybe it is ok I am seeing bad connections. I am learning to rely so much now on the Lord. It is not easy and has been harder in some areas than others. I truly believe those who follow after the Lord first are being changed for what is to come. We have to keep in mind that one day there may not be a real Christian CS allowed. And if that day comes we must be prepared to carry on without one.
To add, I am one of those who has found wonderful relationships through blogging! God is truly bringing us together.
Blessings to you.
January 7, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Mkayla – thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. You brought up an interesting point – the CS may not be allowed. Regardless, I think it is wise for believers to ensure that their foundation is truly on the Rock. There is so much scripture about what will occur in the end – and right now too many but too much trust and security in the CS when it should be in God.
I know I have been blessed by reading your blog. It is a fascinating medium for believers to come together. I’m thankful that we can discuss these tough topics.
January 7, 2010 at 11:04 pm
Where is McKayla’s blog? I want to read it, too!
Also, I’ve posted a house church event (organic church) to my blog that a few families here in SD are putting on. I hope you don’t mind my mentioning it here, Rachel. If you’d rather not, just delete this.
We want to get to know local people who have been looking for this kind of thing, but anyone who wants to come is welcome.
Love, Cindy
January 8, 2010 at 5:04 pm
Hi Cindy! Here is Mkayla’s blog http://mkayla.wordpress.com/ – some great conversations there. I’m glad you mentioned it. In fact, I had someone ask me about organic churches and I sent them to your blog with the info.
January 8, 2010 at 5:31 pm
Thanks so much, Rachel! I just subscribed to Mkayla’s blog. I’m always looking for sisters I haven’t yet met. 😉 And thanks for the referral, too!
The sisters in our group are all spending the night tonight here, so I’m spending the day cleaning. It will be so much fun, and I hope a lot of healing going on, too.
Love, Cindy
January 8, 2010 at 5:36 pm
Absolutely Cindy!! I’ll keep you guys in prayer. What I precious time.
December 26, 2011 at 9:08 am
Hey Rachel, I had not connected this parable before, but had seen it in the last chapters of Jeremiah and in one chapter of the gospiles, where Jesus walked on water. May the Lord continue to bless you in HIS understanding and in giving the words to help others.