Exodus 5:3

"The God of the Hebrews has met with us," they answered. "Please let us go on a three-day journey into the wilderness to sacrifice to the LORD our God, or He may strike us with plagues or with the sword."

Study Bible

The God of the Hebrews has met with us,
This phrase indicates a divine encounter, emphasizing the authority and authenticity of the message Moses and Aaron bring to Pharaoh. The term "God of the Hebrews" distinguishes Yahweh from the Egyptian pantheon, asserting His unique covenant relationship with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This encounter is reminiscent of God's earlier appearances to the patriarchs, reinforcing His ongoing involvement with His chosen people.

they answered.
Moses and Aaron are the speakers here, acting as representatives of the Israelites. Their response to Pharaoh is direct and respectful, yet firm, reflecting their role as intermediaries between God and both the Israelites and the Egyptian ruler. This dialogue sets the stage for the ensuing conflict between God's will and Pharaoh's resistance.

Please let us go on a three-day journey into the wilderness
The request for a three-day journey is significant, symbolizing a temporary departure for worship. The wilderness represents a place of testing and divine encounter, as seen later in Israel's history. This request also serves as a test of Pharaoh's willingness to acknowledge the Israelites' right to worship their God, foreshadowing the greater exodus to come.

to sacrifice to the LORD our God,
Sacrifice is central to Israelite worship, signifying atonement, thanksgiving, and covenant renewal. The use of "LORD" (Yahweh) underscores the personal and covenantal nature of God. This act of worship is not merely ritualistic but a profound expression of obedience and devotion, contrasting with the idolatrous practices of Egypt.

or He may strike us with plagues or with the sword.
This warning highlights the seriousness of the request and the potential consequences of disobedience. The mention of plagues foreshadows the actual plagues that God will unleash upon Egypt, demonstrating His power and judgment. The sword symbolizes divine retribution, a theme echoed throughout Scripture where disobedience leads to judgment. This phrase underscores the urgency and gravity of the Israelites' need to worship God as commanded.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses and Aaron
The leaders of the Israelites, chosen by God to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who is being asked by Moses and Aaron to let the Israelites go into the wilderness to worship God.

3. The God of the Hebrews
The one true God, Yahweh, who has revealed Himself to Moses and Aaron and commanded them to lead His people out of Egypt.

4. The Wilderness
The destination for the Israelites' proposed journey, symbolizing a place of meeting with God and spiritual renewal.

5. Plagues and the Sword
Potential consequences mentioned by Moses and Aaron, indicating God's power to bring judgment if His commands are not obeyed.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
Moses and Aaron demonstrate obedience by delivering God's message to Pharaoh, despite the potential danger. We are called to obey God's commands, trusting in His protection and provision.

The Importance of Worship
The request to journey into the wilderness to sacrifice underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. We should prioritize worship in our lives, setting aside time to meet with God.

God's Sovereignty and Power
The mention of plagues and the sword highlights God's control over all creation and His ability to execute judgment. We should live with a reverent fear of God, acknowledging His power and authority.

Faith in Adversity
Moses and Aaron faced a powerful ruler, yet they acted in faith. We are encouraged to trust God and act in faith, even when circumstances seem daunting.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of Moses and Aaron in Exodus 5:3 challenge us in our own walk with God?

2. What does the request for a three-day journey into the wilderness teach us about the importance of setting aside time for worship and communion with God?

3. How can we apply the concept of God's sovereignty and power in our daily lives, especially when facing challenges?

4. In what ways does the faith of Moses and Aaron inspire us to act courageously in the face of opposition?

5. How do the events in Exodus 5:3 foreshadow the eventual deliverance of the Israelites, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness to His promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:18
This verse connects to Exodus 5:3 as it is the initial instruction from God to Moses about what to say to Pharaoh, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands.

Exodus 7-11
These chapters detail the plagues that God eventually sends upon Egypt, fulfilling the warning given in Exodus 5:3.

Hebrews 11:24-27
This passage highlights Moses' faith and his choice to follow God's call, even in the face of Pharaoh's opposition.