Exodus 6:6

Therefore tell the Israelites: 'I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians and deliver you from their bondage. I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.

Study Bible

Therefore tell the Israelites
This phrase sets the stage for a divine proclamation. The word "therefore" connects God's promise to His previous declarations, emphasizing continuity in His covenantal faithfulness. "Tell the Israelites" signifies God's direct communication with His chosen people, Israel, through Moses. Historically, this reflects the intimate relationship between God and Israel, a nation set apart to witness His power and glory.

I am the LORD
The phrase "I am the LORD" is a profound declaration of God's identity. The Hebrew root for "LORD" is YHWH, often vocalized as Yahweh, which signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature. This name reveals His unchanging character and His covenantal faithfulness. In the context of Exodus, it reassures the Israelites of God's supreme authority and His commitment to fulfill His promises.

and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians
The imagery of a "yoke" symbolizes oppression and servitude. The Hebrew word for "yoke" (עֹל, 'ol) conveys the heavy burdens imposed by the Egyptians. God's promise to "bring you out" signifies a divine intervention to liberate His people from slavery. This act of deliverance is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption through Christ.

I will deliver you from their bondage
The term "deliver" (נָצַל, natsal) in Hebrew implies rescue and salvation. "Bondage" refers to the harsh conditions and forced labor the Israelites endured. This promise highlights God's power to save and His compassion for the oppressed. It serves as a reminder of God's ability to free His people from any form of spiritual or physical captivity.

and redeem you
The concept of "redeem" (גָּאַל, ga'al) involves a kinsman-redeemer who buys back or restores what was lost. In the biblical context, it signifies God's action to reclaim His people as His own. Redemption is a central theme in Scripture, pointing to the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, who paid the price for humanity's sins.

with an outstretched arm
The "outstretched arm" is a metaphor for God's mighty power and active intervention. In ancient Near Eastern culture, an outstretched arm symbolized strength and authority. This imagery reassures the Israelites of God's ability to act decisively on their behalf, demonstrating His sovereignty over all nations.

and with mighty acts of judgment
"Mighty acts of judgment" refer to the plagues and miracles God performed to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "judgment" (שְׁפָטִים, shephatim) indicates divine justice. These acts reveal God's righteousness and His commitment to uphold justice, serving as a warning to oppressors and a comfort to the oppressed. They also prefigure the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Israelites
The descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are enslaved in Egypt and are the recipients of God's promise of deliverance.

3. The Egyptians
The oppressors of the Israelites, representing the worldly powers and systems that enslave God's people.

4. Moses
The chosen leader and prophet through whom God communicates His plans for Israel's deliverance.

5. The Exodus
The pivotal event of liberation from Egyptian bondage, symbolizing God's redemptive power and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises, as seen in His commitment to deliver Israel. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness in their own lives.

Divine Deliverance
Just as God delivered Israel from physical bondage, He delivers us from spiritual bondage through Christ. Reflect on areas where you need God's deliverance today.

The Power of God
God's "outstretched arm" signifies His power and might. Recognize and rely on God's power in overcoming life's challenges.

Redemption
The concept of redemption is central to God's plan. Consider how you have been redeemed and how you can live out that redemption daily.

Judgment and Justice
God's acts of judgment against Egypt demonstrate His justice. Reflect on how God's justice is both a comfort and a call to live righteously.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's covenant with Abraham enhance our understanding of His promise in Exodus 6:6?

2. In what ways can we see God's "outstretched arm" in our personal lives today?

3. How does the concept of redemption in Exodus 6:6 connect to the redemption we have in Christ?

4. What are some modern-day "Egypts" or forms of bondage from which we need God's deliverance?

5. How can we apply the lessons of God's faithfulness and power in Exodus 6:6 to our current struggles and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15
God's covenant with Abraham, promising that his descendants would be strangers in a foreign land but would eventually be delivered.

Deuteronomy 7
God's reminder of His mighty acts and faithfulness in delivering Israel from Egypt, emphasizing His love and covenant.

Isaiah 63
A reflection on God's past acts of salvation, including the Exodus, as a basis for hope in future deliverance.

Romans 8
The theme of liberation from bondage, paralleling the spiritual freedom believers have in Christ.

1 Peter 1
The concept of redemption, highlighting the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ.