Moses' appeal to God is a significant event in the biblical narrative, showcasing the profound relationship between Moses and the LORD, as well as the intercessory role Moses played on behalf of the Israelites. This appeal is most notably recorded in the Book of Exodus and the Book of Numbers, where Moses intercedes for the people of Israel in times of divine judgment.

Exodus 32:11-14

One of the most prominent instances of Moses' appeal occurs after the Israelites commit idolatry by worshiping the golden calf. While Moses is on Mount Sinai receiving the Law, the people grow impatient and demand that Aaron make them gods to lead them. In response, God expresses His intention to destroy the Israelites and make a great nation out of Moses. However, Moses intercedes on their behalf:

"But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God, saying, 'O LORD, why does Your anger burn against Your people, whom You brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? Why should the Egyptians declare, "He brought them out with evil intent, to kill them in the mountains and wipe them from the face of the earth"? Turn from Your fierce anger and relent from this harm against Your people. Remember Your servants Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, to whom You swore by Your very self: I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky, and I will give your descendants all this land I promised, and it will be their inheritance forever.' So the LORD relented from the calamity He had threatened to bring on His people." (Exodus 32:11-14)

Moses appeals to God's reputation among the nations and His covenant promises to the patriarchs. This intercession highlights Moses' role as a mediator and his deep concern for God's honor and the well-being of the Israelites.

Numbers 14:13-20

Another significant appeal occurs after the negative report of the spies sent to Canaan, which leads the Israelites to rebel and express a desire to return to Egypt. God's anger is kindled, and He threatens to disinherit the people. Once again, Moses intercedes:

"But Moses said to the LORD, 'Then the Egyptians will hear of it, for by Your strength You brought this people from among them. And they will tell it to the inhabitants of this land. They have already heard that You, O LORD, are in the midst of this people, for You, O LORD, have been seen face to face, and Your cloud stands over them, and You go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. If You kill this people as one man, the nations who have heard of Your fame will say, "Because the LORD was not able to bring this people into the land He swore to give them, He has slaughtered them in the wilderness." Now may the power of the Lord be magnified, just as You have declared: The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion, forgiving iniquity and transgression. Yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished; He visits the iniquity of the fathers on their children to the third and fourth generation.' 'Pardon, I pray, the iniquity of this people, according to the greatness of Your loving devotion, just as You have forgiven them from Egypt until now.' The LORD answered, 'I have pardoned them as you requested.'" (Numbers 14:13-20)

In this appeal, Moses emphasizes God's character, His past acts of forgiveness, and the potential impact on His reputation among the nations. Moses' intercession results in God's decision to pardon the people, although there are still consequences for their unbelief.

Theological Significance

Moses' appeals to God are profound examples of intercessory prayer and demonstrate the importance of a mediator between God and humanity. Moses' relationship with God is characterized by direct communication and a deep understanding of God's character and promises. These appeals underscore the themes of God's justice, mercy, and faithfulness, as well as the importance of covenantal relationships.

Moses' role as an intercessor foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Jesus Christ, who intercedes on behalf of humanity before God. Through Moses' appeals, the narrative reveals the tension between divine justice and mercy, and the power of prayer in aligning with God's will and purposes.