Exodus 6:27

Moses and Aaron were the ones who spoke to Pharaoh king of Egypt in order to bring the Israelites out of Egypt.

Study Bible

They were the ones
This phrase emphasizes the specific individuals chosen by God for a monumental task. In the Hebrew text, the pronoun "they" refers to Moses and Aaron, highlighting their unique role and divine appointment. Historically, this underscores the importance of leadership and obedience in fulfilling God's plans. Moses and Aaron were not self-appointed but divinely chosen, which is a recurring theme in Scripture where God selects specific people to carry out His will.

who spoke to Pharaoh king of Egypt
The act of speaking to Pharaoh is significant, as Pharaoh was not just a political leader but considered a deity in Egyptian culture. The Hebrew word for "spoke" (דִּבֵּר, dibber) implies a formal and authoritative communication. This encounter was not merely a diplomatic mission but a confrontation between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt. Historically, this reflects the boldness required to challenge the prevailing powers and the courage that comes from divine backing.

to bring the Israelites out of Egypt
This phrase captures the mission's purpose: liberation. The Hebrew root for "bring out" (יָצָא, yatsa) conveys the idea of deliverance and salvation. This is a central theme in the Exodus narrative, symbolizing God's power to save and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. The historical context of the Israelites' bondage in Egypt serves as a backdrop for understanding God's redemptive work, which is a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance through Christ.

It was Moses and Aaron
The repetition of their names at the end of the verse serves to reinforce their identity and role. Moses and Aaron are consistently portrayed as instruments of God's will, with Moses as the leader and Aaron as his spokesperson. This partnership illustrates the importance of teamwork and the complementary roles within God's plan. The historical context of their relationship, with Moses' initial reluctance and Aaron's support, highlights the theme of God equipping those He calls, regardless of their perceived inadequacies.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A central figure in the Exodus account, Moses is chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. His life is marked by divine encounters and leadership challenges.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother, who serves as his spokesperson. Aaron plays a crucial role in communicating God's messages to Pharaoh and the Israelites.

3. Pharaoh
The king of Egypt, who is resistant to God's command to release the Israelites. His hardened heart becomes a focal point in the account of the plagues and the eventual Exodus.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It represents both a place of oppression and the backdrop for God's mighty acts of deliverance.

5. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, who are enslaved in Egypt. Their liberation is central to God's covenantal promises and the unfolding of redemptive history.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Choice
God chooses Moses and Aaron, despite their imperfections, to fulfill His purposes. This reminds us that God often uses unlikely individuals to accomplish His will.

The Role of Obedience
Moses and Aaron's willingness to confront Pharaoh demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's commands, even in the face of daunting challenges.

Partnership in Ministry
The collaboration between Moses and Aaron highlights the value of partnership in ministry. God often calls us to work together to achieve His purposes.

Faith in Action
The account encourages believers to act in faith, trusting that God will equip and empower them for the tasks He assigns.

Deliverance and Redemption
The Exodus account is a powerful reminder of God's ability to deliver His people from bondage, pointing to the ultimate redemption found in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the partnership between Moses and Aaron illustrate the importance of teamwork in fulfilling God's mission today?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the lives of Moses and Aaron, and how does this encourage us in our own walk with God?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate for a task God called you to. How does the account of Moses and Aaron inspire you to trust in God's provision and strength?

4. How does the account of Moses and Aaron confronting Pharaoh challenge us to stand firm in our faith amidst opposition?

5. What parallels can you draw between the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and the spiritual deliverance offered through Jesus Christ? How can this understanding deepen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3-4
These chapters provide the background of Moses' calling and his initial reluctance, setting the stage for his and Aaron's mission to confront Pharaoh.

Exodus 7-12
The subsequent chapters detail the plagues and the confrontation between Moses, Aaron, and Pharaoh, highlighting God's power and faithfulness.

Hebrews 11:23-29
This passage in the New Testament reflects on the faith of Moses, emphasizing his role in the Exodus and his trust in God's promises.

Acts 7:35-36
Stephen's speech in Acts recounts Moses' leadership and the deliverance of Israel, affirming the historical and theological significance of the Exodus.