Red Sea

• 1 min. read • grade level: 13

This sea was crossed by the children of Israel in their passage from Egypt to Canaan by the special guidance of God, who did not lead them the direct way to the promised land, lest they should be discouraged by conflict with the Philistines (Ex. 13:17¹⁷And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt: (Exodus 13:17)), from whom they had already suffered while in Egypt (1 Chron. 7:21, 22²¹And Zabad his son, and Shuthelah his son, and Ezer, and Elead, whom the men of Gath that were born in that land slew, because they came down to take away their cattle. ²²And Ephraim their father mourned many days, and his brethren came to comfort him. (1 Chronicles 7:21‑22)). This sea also served as a grave for Pharaoh and his host, thus delivering the people from their enemies. By this route therefore they were doubly guarded, from Philistines in front, and Egyptians behind. To pass along it, however, the Israelites themselves must cross the waters typical of death. The great truth shown in baptism is thus clearly taught, that it is by passing through death with Christ we get deliverance from our enemies, and we also see that this is God’s path for us from Egypt to Canaan. See in connection Rom. 6 and 1 Cor. 10.