Understanding Exodus 2:1-22

The Story of Moses

The story of Moses is one of the most well-known and beloved stories in the Bible. It is a story of faith, courage, and redemption. Exodus 2:1-22 is the beginning of this epic tale. It tells the story of how Moses was born, how he was saved from death, and how he grew up to become the leader of the Israelites. Let’s take a closer look at this powerful story.

Moses is Born

The story begins with the birth of Moses. His mother, Jochebed, gives birth to him during a time of great oppression. The Israelites are slaves in Egypt, and Pharaoh has ordered that all Hebrew baby boys be thrown into the Nile River. Jochebed knows that she must do something to save her son’s life.

So, she makes a basket out of reeds and covers it with tar and pitch. She puts Moses in the basket and places it in the Nile River. Moses’ sister, Miriam, watches from a distance to see what will happen to her baby brother.

Moses is Saved

As the basket floats down the river, it is discovered by Pharaoh’s daughter. She sees the baby and takes pity on him. She decides to raise him as her own son. Miriam, who has been watching, comes forward and offers to find a wet nurse for the baby. She brings Jochebed, who is able to nurse her own son.

So, Moses is saved from death and raised in the palace of Pharaoh. He grows up as a prince of Egypt, but he never forgets his Hebrew roots.

Moses Kills an Egyptian

One day, Moses sees an Egyptian beating a Hebrew slave. He becomes angry and kills the Egyptian. He then buries the body in the sand. The next day, he sees two Hebrews fighting and tries to break up the fight. One of the Hebrews asks him if he is going to kill him like he killed the Egyptian. Moses realizes that his crime has been discovered and he flees Egypt.

Moses in Midian

Moses flees to the land of Midian, where he meets Jethro, a priest of Midian. Jethro gives Moses his daughter, Zipporah, in marriage. Moses becomes a shepherd and lives in Midian for many years.

God Hears the Cry of His People

Meanwhile, the Israelites in Egypt continue to suffer under the oppression of Pharaoh. They cry out to God for help. God hears their cry and remembers his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

The Burning Bush

One day, while Moses is tending his flock, he sees a burning bush. The bush is on fire, but it is not consumed. Moses is curious and approaches the bush. God speaks to him from the bush and tells him that he has been chosen to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

Moses’ Reluctance

Moses is reluctant to accept this task. He feels unworthy and unprepared. He asks God what he should tell the Israelites when they ask who has sent him. God tells Moses to tell them that “I AM WHO I AM” has sent him.

God’s Power

God demonstrates his power to Moses by turning his staff into a snake and then back into a staff. He also tells Moses to put his hand into his cloak, and when he takes it out, it is leprous. When he puts it back in and takes it out again, it is healed.

Moses’ Return to Egypt

After many objections, Moses finally agrees to return to Egypt and lead the Israelites out of slavery. He and his brother, Aaron, go to Pharaoh and demand that he let the Israelites go. Pharaoh refuses, and God sends a series of plagues to convince him to change his mind.

The Exodus

Finally, after the tenth plague, Pharaoh relents and allows the Israelites to leave Egypt. Moses leads them out of Egypt and across the Red Sea. They wander in the wilderness for forty years before finally reaching the Promised Land.

Conclusion

The story of Moses is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and redemption. It shows us that even in the darkest of times, God is with us and will never abandon us. Whether we are facing oppression, doubt, or fear, we can trust in God’s power and love. May we all have the courage to follow God’s call, just as Moses did.