Exodus is More Than Escape: An Endorsement of Exodus and the Mission of God’s Holy People by Brian Russell
September 29, 2026
I had the privilege of reading an advanced reader’s copy of Exodus and the Mission of God’s Holy People by my mentor, friend, and seminary professor Dr. Brian Russell. I highly recommend this amazing work from Dr. Russell, published by Invite Press.
Dr. Russell is one of the top Wesleyan scholars in biblical studies. If you are not able to take a class with him, this is the next best opportunity. It is classic Dr. Russell in which he clearly explains the text and takes us even deeper.
Exodus and the Mission of God’s Holy People points out how most of us, including me, view Exodus: as the story of leaving Egypt.
Dr. Russell points out, “…Israel is free from Egypt by Exodus 15:21. The giving of the Ten Commandments occurs in Exodus 20. Yet there are forty chapters in the book… The true climax of the book of Exodus is the Lord’s glory filling the Tabernacle and God’s presence in the cloud and fire leading the redeemed and holy people of God into the world as witnesses.”
He goes on to say, “…it was easier for God to get Israel out of Egypt than it was for God to get Egypt out of Israel.”
Dr. Russell goes on to discuss key interpretive issues in Exodus such as why God elevates Israel, whether Pharoah has free will, and how we wrestle with slavery in the scriptures. Most importantly, we see how the call to be holy for Israel is also the call for all Christ-followers today.
Preachers, as you plan your small groups and programming for next year, I highly recommend considering this as a resource.
Small-group and bible study leaders would find this very helpful. Invite Press and Dr. Russell has a workbook scheduled for a release in early November, and I am making my pre-order today.
Lovers of the Scriptures will find this an accessible book which can be formative for devotional reading.
One final note: Dr. Russell is rumored to be willing to join a study via Zoom or make a clip and send your group a video. I highly recommend you reach out to him for this, his coaching services, or just to follow his blog, podcast, and future publishing.
Brian Russell Information
- The New Book: Exodus and the Mission of God’s Holy People
- Brian’s Website
- Brian’s Books
- Brian’s Podcast
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About David Wesley Donnan
I write online about Methodism, devotional insights, and personal reflections. My primary goal is to organize my thoughts and explore meaningful topics. Along the way, I hope my writing inspires and encourages others on their journey.
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