So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey, and headed back to Egypt. And he took the staff of God in his hand. So Moses took his wife and sonsThis phrase marks a pivotal moment in Moses' life, as he transitions from his life in Midian back to Egypt. The Hebrew word for "took" (לָקַח, laqach) implies a deliberate action, indicating Moses' commitment to the divine mission. His family accompanies him, symbolizing the unity and support essential for the journey ahead. This reflects the importance of family in fulfilling God's purposes, as they are integral to Moses' identity and mission. put them on a donkey and started back to the land of Egypt And he took the staff of God in his hand Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe central figure in this passage, Moses is called by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. His journey back to Egypt marks the beginning of his mission. 2. Moses' Wife and Sons Moses' family accompanies him, highlighting the personal sacrifice and commitment involved in following God's call. 3. Donkey The mode of transportation for Moses' family, symbolizing humility and readiness for the journey. 4. Egypt The land Moses is returning to, where he will confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. 5. The Staff of God A symbol of divine authority and power, the staff represents God's presence and support for Moses' mission. Teaching Points Obedience to God's CallMoses' actions demonstrate obedience to God's command, even when it involves personal sacrifice. We are called to trust and obey God's direction in our lives. Family and Faith Moses takes his family with him, showing the importance of involving our loved ones in our spiritual journey and mission. Symbol of Authority The staff of God signifies divine authority. As believers, we carry the authority of Christ in our mission to share the Gospel. Preparation for Mission Moses' journey back to Egypt is a preparation phase. We must be prepared spiritually and practically for the tasks God assigns us. Trust in God's Provision The journey to Egypt required trust in God's provision and protection. We are encouraged to rely on God's faithfulness in our own journeys. Bible Study Questions 1. What does Moses' decision to take his family with him teach us about balancing family responsibilities with God's call?2. How does the staff of God serve as a reminder of God's presence and power in our own lives? 3. In what ways can we prepare ourselves for the mission God has called us to, similar to Moses' preparation for his journey to Egypt? 4. How does Moses' obedience to return to Egypt challenge us to step out in faith, even when the path is uncertain? 5. Reflect on a time when you had to trust in God's provision and protection. How did that experience strengthen your faith? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 3:1-10This passage provides context for Moses' mission, detailing God's call to Moses at the burning bush and the promise to deliver Israel from Egypt. Hebrews 11:24-27 This New Testament passage highlights Moses' faith, emphasizing his choice to follow God's call over the comforts of Egypt. Matthew 10:37-39 Jesus speaks about the cost of discipleship, which parallels Moses' decision to prioritize God's mission over personal comfort.
People Aaron, Isaac, Israelites, Jacob, Jethro, Moses, Pharaoh, ZipporahPlaces Egypt, Horeb, Midian, Nile RiverTopics Ass, Causeth, Donkey, Egypt, God's, Mounted, Returned, Ride, Riding, Rod, Sons, Staff, Started, Taketh, Turneth, WifeDictionary of Bible Themes Exodus 4:20Library January 13. "Thou Shalt be to Him Instead of God" (Ex. Iv. 16). "Thou shalt be to him instead of God" (Ex. iv. 16). Such was God's promise to Moses, and such the high character that Moses was to assume toward Aaron, his brother. May it not suggest a high and glorious place that each of us may occupy toward all whom we meet, instead of God? What a dignity and glory it would give our lives, could we uniformly realize this high calling! How it would lead us to act toward our fellow-men! God can always be depended upon. God is without variableness or shadow of turning. … Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth May the Eleventh but -- --! May the Twelfth Mouth and Matter A Bundle of Myrrh is My Well-Beloved unto Me; He Shall Abide Between My Breasts. Preaching (I. ). To the Saddest of the Sad The Sweet Uses of Adversity "For if Ye Live after the Flesh, Ye Shall Die; but if Ye through the Spirit do Mortify the Deeds of the Body, Ye Shall Live. The Hardening in the Sacred Scripture. The Quotation in Matt. Ii. 6. Flight into Egypt and Slaughter of the Bethlehem Children. Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes A Canticle of Love Exodus Links Exodus 4:20 NIVExodus 4:20 NLT Exodus 4:20 ESV Exodus 4:20 NASB Exodus 4:20 KJV Exodus 4:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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