HeartQuest 101

There are a lot of great escapes found in the Bible, here are a few and their significance (who, what happened, what was accomplished, application):

Jacob (Genesis 31:1-55)

1. Left his father-in-law, Laban, after almost 20 years of service.
2. Allowed Jacob to return home for Isaac’s death and for reconciliation with Esau, his brother.
3. A time away from home often puts the really important things into perspective.

Moses (Exodus 2:11-15)

1. Fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian in defense of a fellow Israelite.
2. Saved his own life and began another part of God’s training.
3. God fits even our mistakes into his plan.

Israelites (Exodus 12:28-42)

1. Escaped Egypt after 430 years, most of that time in slavery.
2. God confirmed his choice of Abraham’s descendants.
3. God will not forget his promises.

Spies (Joshua 2:1-24)

1. Escaped searchers in Jericho by hiding in Rahab’s house.
2. Prepared the destruction of Jericho and preserved Rahab, who would become one of David’s ancestors – as well as an ancestor of Jesus.
3. God’s plan weaves lives together in a pattern beyond our understanding.

Ehud (Judges 3:15-30)

1. Assissinated the Moabite King Eglon, but escaped undetected.
2. Broke the control of Moab over Israel and began 80 years of peace.
3. Punishments by God are often swift and deadly.

Samson (Judges 16:1-3)

1. Escaped a locked city by ripping the gates from their hinges.
2. Merely postponed Samson’s self-destruction because of his lack of self-control.
3. Without dependence on God and his guidance, even great ability is wasted.

Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-18)

1. Fled into the desert out of fear of Queen Jezebel.
2. Preserved Elijah’s life, but also displayed his human weakness.
3. Even at moments of real success, our personal weaknesses are our greatest challenges.

Saul (Paul) (Acts 9:23-25)

1. Lowered over the wall in a basket to get out of Damascus.
2. Saved this new Christian for great service to God.
3. God has a purpose for every life, which leads to a real adventure for those willing to cooperate.

Peter (Acts 12:1-11)

1. Freed from prison by an angel.
2. Saved Peter for God’s further plans for his life.
3. God can use extraordinary means to carry out his plan – often when we least expect it.

Paul and Silas (Acts 16:22-40)

1. Chains loosened and doors opened by an earthquake, but they chose not to leave the prison.
2. Pointed out the powerlessness of humans before God.
3. When our dependence and attention are focused on God rather than our problems, he is able to offer help in unexpected ways.

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