Exodus 5:3

"The God of the Hebrews has met with us," they answered. "Please let us go on a three-day journey into the wilderness to sacrifice to the LORD our God, or He may strike us with plagues or with the sword."

Study Bible

The God of the Hebrews
This phrase identifies the deity as the specific God worshiped by the Hebrew people, distinguishing Him from the pantheon of Egyptian gods. The Hebrew term for God here is "Elohim," which emphasizes His power and majesty. Historically, this declaration asserts the identity and sovereignty of Yahweh over His chosen people, setting the stage for the confrontation between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt.

has met with us
The phrase indicates a divine encounter, suggesting a personal and direct communication from God to His people. The Hebrew root "qara" implies a calling or summoning, emphasizing the authority and intentionality of God’s message. This meeting signifies God's active involvement in the lives of the Israelites, reinforcing His covenant relationship with them.

they replied
This response is given by Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh, representing the voice of God’s chosen leaders. Their reply is not just a human request but a divine mandate, underscoring the prophetic role of Moses and Aaron as intermediaries between God and Pharaoh.

Let us take a three-day journey
The request for a "three-day journey" into the wilderness is significant both practically and symbolically. Practically, it suggests a temporary departure, which might have been more palatable to Pharaoh. Symbolically, the number three often represents completeness and divine perfection in the Bible, hinting at a complete devotion to God during this time of worship.

into the wilderness
The wilderness represents a place of testing, purification, and divine encounter. Biblically, it is often where God reveals Himself and His purposes to His people. For the Israelites, the wilderness would become a place of transformation and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

to sacrifice to the LORD our God
Sacrifice is central to the Israelites' worship, symbolizing atonement, thanksgiving, and dedication to God. The Hebrew word for sacrifice, "zebach," involves offerings that are pleasing to God. This act of worship is a declaration of allegiance and obedience to Yahweh, contrasting with the idolatrous practices of Egypt.

or He may strike us with plagues or with the sword
This phrase underscores the seriousness of the request, highlighting the potential consequences of disobedience to God. The mention of "plagues" and "the sword" foreshadows the judgments that God would later bring upon Egypt. It reflects the understanding that God is both merciful and just, capable of delivering His people and executing judgment on their oppressors.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses and Aaron
The leaders of the Israelites, chosen by God to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who is being asked by Moses and Aaron to let the Israelites go into the wilderness to worship God.

3. The God of the Hebrews
The one true God, Yahweh, who has revealed Himself to Moses and Aaron and commanded them to lead His people out of Egypt.

4. The Wilderness
The destination for the Israelites' proposed journey, symbolizing a place of meeting with God and spiritual renewal.

5. Plagues and the Sword
Potential consequences mentioned by Moses and Aaron, indicating God's power to bring judgment if His commands are not obeyed.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
Moses and Aaron demonstrate obedience by delivering God's message to Pharaoh, despite the potential danger. We are called to obey God's commands, trusting in His protection and provision.

The Importance of Worship
The request to journey into the wilderness to sacrifice underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. We should prioritize worship in our lives, setting aside time to meet with God.

God's Sovereignty and Power
The mention of plagues and the sword highlights God's control over all creation and His ability to execute judgment. We should live with a reverent fear of God, acknowledging His power and authority.

Faith in Adversity
Moses and Aaron faced a powerful ruler, yet they acted in faith. We are encouraged to trust God and act in faith, even when circumstances seem daunting.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of Moses and Aaron in Exodus 5:3 challenge us in our own walk with God?

2. What does the request for a three-day journey into the wilderness teach us about the importance of setting aside time for worship and communion with God?

3. How can we apply the concept of God's sovereignty and power in our daily lives, especially when facing challenges?

4. In what ways does the faith of Moses and Aaron inspire us to act courageously in the face of opposition?

5. How do the events in Exodus 5:3 foreshadow the eventual deliverance of the Israelites, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness to His promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:18
This verse connects to Exodus 5:3 as it is the initial instruction from God to Moses about what to say to Pharaoh, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands.

Exodus 7-11
These chapters detail the plagues that God eventually sends upon Egypt, fulfilling the warning given in Exodus 5:3.

Hebrews 11:24-27
This passage highlights Moses' faith and his choice to follow God's call, even in the face of Pharaoh's opposition.