Exodus 4: Moses’ Calling and Miracles Commentary

Exodus Chapter 4 continues the narrative of Moses’ encounter with God and his preparation to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The chapter begins with Moses expressing doubt about his ability to convince the Israelites and Pharaoh of his divine mission. God responds by giving Moses three miraculous signs to perform: turning his staff into a snake, making his hand leprous and then healing it, and turning water from the Nile into blood. These signs are meant to demonstrate God’s power and validate Moses’ authority. Despite this, Moses remains hesitant, citing his lack of eloquence. God reassures him that He will be with Moses’ mouth and appoints Aaron, Moses’ brother, as his spokesperson. The chapter then shifts as Moses returns to Egypt, reunites with Aaron, and begins to carry out God’s instructions. Along the way, a mysterious incident occurs where God seeks to kill Moses, but his wife Zipporah intervenes by circumcising their son, averting the threat. The chapter concludes with Moses and Aaron assembling the Israelite elders, performing the signs, and gaining the people’s trust as they believe God has sent deliverance.