**What Great Act Did They Witness?
Throughout the narrative of Exodus 14, the Israelites experienced one of the most astonishing demonstrations of God’s power ever recorded. After centuries of slavery in Egypt and a dramatic departure under Moses’ leadership, they soon found themselves trapped between the Red Sea and the advancing Egyptian army. In their fear and helplessness, God performed a miraculous act that would forever define their faith and history.
The Great Act: The Parting of the Red Sea
The great act the Israelites witnessed was God parting the waters of the Red Sea, creating a path of dry land through the middle of the sea for an entire nation to pass safely. This event was not only a miracle of deliverance but also a revelation of God’s sovereignty over creation, His protection over His people, and His judgment upon their enemies.
1. The Sea Divided by God’s Power
As Moses obeyed God’s command and stretched out his hand over the sea, the waters were supernaturally driven back. A strong east wind blew all night, forming towering walls of water on both sides. What should have been an impossible crossing became a clear and walkable passage.
This was not a natural occurrence, nor a coincidence—it was a direct act of God, timed perfectly to rescue His people.
2. A Path of Dry Ground
Another remarkable aspect of this miracle was that the seabed was not muddy or unstable. The Israelites walked on dry ground, highlighting the completeness of God’s power. What nature could never do on its own, God accomplished effortlessly.
3. A Miraculous Deliverance
As the Israelites reached the other side, the Egyptians pursued them into the sea. But God allowed the waters to collapse back into place. The same path that saved Israel became the instrument of judgment for the Egyptian forces.
This act delivered Israel completely—not one Egyptian soldier survived. God removed the threat that had haunted them for generations.
The Purpose of the Great Act
To Strengthen Israel’s Faith
Seeing the sea part and walking between walls of water transformed Israel’s understanding of God. What they witnessed was undeniable:
Their God was greater than any earthly power.
To Reveal God’s Glory
The miracle displayed God’s supremacy to both Israel and Egypt. As the waters closed over the Egyptian army, God’s power and justice were unmistakably revealed.
To Mark a Turning Point in Israel’s Story
This event was more than a rescue—it was a defining moment. The Israelites were no longer slaves but a free people, protected and guided by the Almighty.
Conclusion
The great act they witnessed was the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, a display of divine power that rescued Israel, defeated Egypt, and established God’s glory among the nations. This event became one of the most celebrated and remembered miracles in Scripture, shaping Israel’s identity and faith for generations.