Exodus 6:11

"Go and tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the Israelites go out of his land."

Study Bible

Go and tell Pharaoh king of Egypt
This command from God to Moses emphasizes the divine authority behind Moses' mission. Pharaoh, as the king of Egypt, was considered a god by his people, making this directive a confrontation between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt. Historically, Pharaohs were seen as divine rulers, and this sets the stage for the ensuing plagues, which demonstrate the power of the God of Israel over the Egyptian deities. This phrase also highlights Moses' role as a prophet and mediator, a type of Christ who would later serve as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

to let the Israelites go
The demand for the Israelites' release is central to the narrative of Exodus. It signifies God's intention to fulfill His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob by delivering their descendants from bondage. Theologically, this liberation prefigures the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, who delivers believers from the bondage of sin. The Israelites' exodus from Egypt is a foundational event in Jewish history, symbolizing freedom and God's faithfulness.

out of his land
The phrase "out of his land" underscores the complete separation God intends for His people from Egypt, a land associated with idolatry and oppression. This separation is not just physical but spiritual, as God calls His people to be distinct and holy. The land of Egypt, with its rich archaeological history, was a place of great power and wealth, yet it was not the land promised to the descendants of Abraham. This call to leave Egypt foreshadows the Christian call to leave behind the world and its ways, seeking a heavenly homeland as described in Hebrews 11:16.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central human figure in this passage, Moses is chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. His role as a prophet and leader is pivotal in the unfolding account of the Exodus.

2. Pharaoh
The king of Egypt, representing the oppressive power holding the Israelites in slavery. Pharaoh's hardened heart becomes a significant theme in the Exodus account.

3. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who are suffering under Egyptian slavery. Their liberation is the primary focus of the Exodus account.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It symbolizes oppression and bondage in the biblical account.

5. God's Command
The directive given to Moses to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. This command sets the stage for the subsequent plagues and the eventual Exodus.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
Moses is called to act in obedience despite the daunting task. Believers are encouraged to trust and obey God's directives, even when they seem challenging.

God's Sovereignty
The command to confront Pharaoh underscores God's control over nations and rulers. Christians can find comfort in God's sovereignty over all circumstances.

Courage in Faith
Moses' mission required immense courage. Believers are called to step out in faith, trusting that God equips those He calls.

Deliverance from Bondage
The Exodus account is a powerful reminder of God's desire to free His people from physical and spiritual bondage. Christians can reflect on their own deliverance through Christ.

The Role of Leadership
Moses' leadership is crucial in the liberation of the Israelites. This highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding others toward freedom and truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience to God's command in Exodus 6:11 inspire you to respond to God's calling in your own life?

2. In what ways does the account of the Exodus reflect God's sovereignty and power over earthly rulers and situations?

3. How can the courage demonstrated by Moses in confronting Pharaoh encourage you to face challenges in your own faith journey?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance from a difficult situation. How does this relate to the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt?

5. What qualities of leadership can you learn from Moses that can be applied in your own context, whether in family, work, or church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:10-12
This earlier passage in Exodus details God's initial call to Moses at the burning bush, where God promises to be with Moses as he confronts Pharaoh.

Exodus 7:1-2
These verses continue the account, where God reiterates His command to Moses and Aaron to speak to Pharaoh, emphasizing the divine authority behind their mission.

Acts 7:34-36
Stephen's speech in the New Testament recounts the account of Moses and the Exodus, highlighting God's deliverance and the fulfillment of His promises.