The study focuses on Exodus 4:1-31, detailing Moses’ reluctance to accept God’s call and the divine assurances provided to him through signs and support.
It emphasises that while human inadequacy is common, God equips those He calls with supernatural evidence and companionship to fulfil His mission. God provides divine assurance for those called to ministry. Through Moses, the study shows how supernatural signs and priestly support from Aaron overcome human inadequacy. Faithful obedience and heart circumcision are essential for fulfilling God’s mission and glory.
1. Purposeful Signs With the Minister’s Commission
(Ref: Exodus 4:1-9)
God provided three specific signs to assure Moses, the Israelites, and Pharaoh of the divine commission:
The Rod Turning into a Serpent
A simple shepherd’s rod became a supernatural instrument when cast down at God’s command. This illustrates that ordinary lives or abilities become extraordinary instruments for conviction and faith when fully surrendered to God.
The Leprous Hand
Moses’ hand became leprous when put in his bosom and was restored when returned. This demonstrated God’s absolute power to afflict and heal, proving that He can purify or judge.
Water Turning to Blood
The final sign involved turning river water into blood on dry land. This symbolised divine justice against Egypt, which had used the river to drown innocent Hebrew children. It served as a warning that resistance to God leads to judgment.
2. Priestly Support After Moses’ Complaint
(Ref: Exodus 4:10-17)
Despite the signs, Moses focused on his personal inadequacies, specifically his lack of eloquence.
God’s Anger at “Unbelieving Humility”
Moses’ continued hesitation provoked God’s anger because it was rooted in unbelief rather than true humility. Believers are reminded that God created the mouth and can enable anyone to speak for Him.
Aaron as a Helper
God appointed Aaron, Moses’ brother, to be his spokesman. This partnership was divinely orchestrated, not a family appointment or personal choice.
Divine Order
God maintained a specific order: He would speak to Moses, and Moses would speak to Aaron. Blessing follows when everyone remains in their appointed role without pride or self-exaltation.
3. Permanent Subjection With Meaningful Consecration
(Ref: Exodus 4:18-31)
This section covers Moses’ obedience and the necessity of maintaining covenant requirements.
Commendable Obedience
Moses sought permission from his father-in-law, Jethro, before leaving, showing respect for proper order. He exercised discretion by not revealing every detail of his divine revelation to Jethro.
The Incident at the Inn
God sought to kill Moses because he had failed to circumcise his son, a requirement of the Abrahamic covenant. Zipporah intervened by performing the circumcision. This teaches that obedience to God’s covenant is non-negotiable; even a leader must not neglect divine commands.
Divine Orchestration
God guided Aaron to meet Moses in the vast wilderness without modern communication. Their reunion and subsequent ministry to the elders of Israel resulted in the people believing and worshipping God.
