The Army Approaches

Exodus 14:1-31

The Big Idea

When God’s people faced danger, the LORD was able to rescue them. We can bring our fear to God and remember his power.

The Bible Story

Crossing the Red Sea

Exodus 14:5–9 describes Pharaoh and his officials pursuing Israel with horses, chariots, horsemen, and an army. The Egyptians catch up while the Israelites are camped beside the Red Sea. When Israel sees them, the people become very afraid and cry out to the LORD. This moment begins the crisis that leads to God’s rescue. Moses tells the people not to be afraid, to stand firm, and to see the LORD’s salvation. The LORD later divides the sea, allowing Israel to cross on dry ground, while the pursuing Egyptians enter the sea. The passage emphasizes the LORD’s power and Israel’s deliverance, without giving numbers or naming additional commanders.

Themes

God’s rescue of Israel Israel’s deliverance from Egypt The LORD’s power over the sea The stopping and judgment of the pursuing Egyptian forces Trust and fear in crisis

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Pharaoh and the Egyptian army approach the Israelites’ camp by the Red Sea with horses, chariots, and horsemen. Place the Israelites in the foreground and the approaching force at a respectful distance, creating tension without depicting violence.

Talk together

Talk about it

How do you think the Israelites felt when they saw the approaching army?
What did Moses tell the people to do?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page before teaching the Red Sea crossing in Exodus 14. Invite children to notice the contrast between Israel’s fear and the LORD’s power. Keep the army’s approach non-graphic, and explain that the full story continues with God making a way for Israel through the sea.

Source note