Some things are good, but honestly, some things are better. For example, vanilla ice cream is good. But frozen Snickers bars are better.

When someone asks me what I think is the best book of the Bible, my response is, “They are all good!” However, I do enjoy reading the book of Exodus alongside Hebrews because they speak of good and better. Together, they give such a rich picture of God’s redemption story.

Exodus is the visual backdrop of God’s big, beautiful, love story. It takes you on a physical journey though God’s redemptive plan and points always to Jesus. As you observe the physical people, places, and things in Exodus, watch how it points to the better things Jesus fulfilled through his life, death and resurrection described in the New Testament and specifically in Hebrews.

Hebrews shows us no man, action or law described in Exodus could completely redeem us. It reminds us we would need something better – a Savior. Hebrews clearly states Jesus is better.

For example:

Exodus introduces Moses — a servant in God’s house. Hebrews describes Jesus as a faithful Son over God’s house.

Exodus introduces Passover — a perfect lamb sacrificed; whose blood on the doorpost would save the firstborn. Hebrews reveals Jesus; a perfect sacrifice for sin, saving us once for all.

Exodus introduces the Law (Covenant) — a set of standards, written on stone tablets, for daily living and worship. Hebrews points to Jesus; the guarantee of a better covenant because the law would now be written on our hearts.  

Exodus introduces the Tabernacle  — where God would dwell with man. Hebrews claims Jesus is the tabernacle and dwells with us eternally. 

Exodus introduces the priesthood — priests appointed by men who mediated between man and God. Hebrews names Jesus as our great high priest; appointed by God as the eternal mediator between us and God.  

Even the furnishings of the tabernacle described in Exodus point to Jesus (here are a few):

The golden lamp stand: Jesus is our eternal light in a world of darkness

The altar of incense: Jesus is our intercessor who prays for us always

The table of shewbread: Jesus is our daily bread who gives us provision in every circumstance.

When I read Exodus and Hebrews together, I find it both reassuring and comforting to see God has had a plan for us since before the creation of the world. That plan is and will always be Jesus.

Easter is a wonderful time to read Exodus and Hebrews because we see both the promise and fulfillment of Jesus steeped in the stories and pages. It becomes abundantly clear that Jesus is better because He is the ultimate revelation of God’s mercy and love.

As you read these two powerful books, here are a few tips to help you see the richness of God’s plan told through the story of Jesus. He was foretold in Exodus though buildings/furnishings, laws, and people and fully revealed in Hebrews:

• When you read about the passover lamb, think about how Jesus is your Passover Lamb. (Hebrews 10) 
• Ponder the tabernacle building process and imagine all the ways Jesus fulfills it in you. (Hebrews 8-9) 
• The priesthood was established in Exodus. List how Jesus is your great High Priest. (Hebrews 4-8)
• Keep a log where you see Jesus in the book of Exodus and praise Him each time you see His fulfillment in Hebrews.  
• As you discover the sacrifices necessary for the atonement of sin in Exodus, thank Jesus for providing a better way for saving you from your sins, once for all. (Hebrews 7:25-28) 

Are you reading along with me this year?

1. How is it going?  
2. What are some things that have been especially meaningful to you in your readings?  
3. Please share your thoughts and observations in the comments section.  
4. Are you behind but want to begin again? Then start where you left off or re-join us where we are. No biggie.  
5. Finally, if you have shared that you are reading along with me, I’m praying for you by name. (If you haven’t told me, reach out and I’ll happily add you to my prayer list!) 

2023 Reading Plan