Exodus 6:1

But the LORD said to Moses, "Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh, for because of My mighty hand he will let the people go; because of My strong hand he will drive them out of his land."

Study Bible

But the LORD said to Moses
This phrase indicates a direct communication from God to Moses, emphasizing the personal relationship and divine authority guiding Moses. Throughout the Pentateuch, God frequently speaks to Moses, establishing him as a central prophetic figure. This communication underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, with Moses as the mediator.

Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh
God promises imminent action against Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. This statement sets the stage for the forthcoming plagues, which serve as divine judgments against Egypt's oppression of the Israelites. The phrase highlights God's sovereignty and power over earthly rulers, a recurring theme in the Bible. It also foreshadows the dramatic events that will lead to the Exodus, a pivotal moment in Israel's history.

for because of My mighty hand he will let the people go
The "mighty hand" symbolizes God's power and intervention. This imagery is often used in the Old Testament to describe God's deliverance and protection of His people. The phrase assures Moses that Pharaoh's eventual decision to release the Israelites will be a direct result of God's intervention, not Pharaoh's benevolence. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's deliverance and faithfulness to His promises.

because of My strong hand he will drive them out of his land
The repetition of "strong hand" emphasizes the certainty and force of God's actions. This phrase suggests that not only will Pharaoh allow the Israelites to leave, but he will also compel them to do so, highlighting the overwhelming nature of God's power. This anticipates the urgency and decisiveness of the Exodus, where Pharaoh's resistance is ultimately broken. Theologically, it points to God's ability to fulfill His promises despite human opposition, a theme echoed in the New Testament with the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who reveals His power and faithfulness to His people.

2. Moses
The chosen leader and prophet of Israel, tasked with delivering the Israelites from Egyptian bondage.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing opposition to God's will and the enslavement of the Israelites.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, symbolizing oppression and the need for divine intervention.

5. The Exodus
The event of Israel's deliverance from Egypt, showcasing God's power and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
God is in control of all events and rulers, and His purposes will be accomplished despite human resistance.

Faith in God's Promises
Like Moses, believers are called to trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem insurmountable.

Deliverance and Redemption
The Exodus is a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance through Christ, reminding us of God's redemptive plan.

God's Timing
God's timing is perfect, and His deliverance often comes after a period of waiting and preparation.

The Role of Obedience
Moses' obedience to God's command is crucial, highlighting the importance of following God's direction in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in Exodus 6:1 help us trust Him in difficult situations today?

2. In what ways does the account of the Exodus foreshadow the deliverance we have in Christ?

3. How can we apply the principle of waiting on God's timing in our personal lives?

4. What are some modern-day "Pharaohs" or obstacles that challenge our faith, and how can we respond to them?

5. How does Moses' obedience to God's command inspire us to act in faith, even when the outcome is uncertain?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:19-20
God foretells that Pharaoh will not let the Israelites go unless compelled by a mighty hand, emphasizing His sovereign power.

Deuteronomy 4:34
Reflects on the signs and wonders God performed in Egypt, reinforcing His mighty acts.

Psalm 136:11-12
Celebrates God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt with a strong hand and an outstretched arm.

Romans 9:17
Paul references Pharaoh to illustrate God's sovereignty and purpose in displaying His power.