◄ Exodus 3 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Moses at the Burning Bush This chapter beautifully encapsulates the divine commissioning of Moses, reflecting on his fear, doubt, and the reassurances from God. It serves as a reminder that faith often requires stepping into unknown territories, armed with nothing but divine assurance. The Burning Bush (Verses 1-4) Moses, while shepherding his father-in-law Jethro's flock, encounters a bush ablaze that is not consumed. An angel of the Lord appears to him from the bush. The Holy Ground (Verses 5-6) Moses is commanded to remove his sandals as he is standing on holy ground. God introduces Himself as the God of his forefathers. God's Concern for His People (Verses 7-9) God acknowledges the suffering of His people in Egypt and His plan to rescue them, promising to bring them to a prosperous land. The Call of Moses (Verses 10-13) Moses is commissioned by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, expressing his doubt about his capabilities. I AM WHO I AM (Verses 14-15) God reveals Himself as "I AM WHO I AM", a name to be remembered throughout generations. The Promise and the Sign (Verses 16-22) God assures Moses of the elders' acceptance and foretells the challenges with Pharaoh. He promises signs and wonders, and the eventual plunder of the Egyptians. This chapter delves into the pivotal moment where Moses, while shepherding his father-in-law's flock, encounters God in a burning bush and is tasked with the momentous mission of liberating the Israelites from Egyptian oppression. Teaching Points Divine Encounter Moses encounters God in a burning bush that is not consumed by the fire (Exodus 3:2). This miraculous sight captures Moses' attention and signifies God's holy presence. God's Holiness God instructs Moses to remove his sandals, for the place where he stands is holy ground (Exodus 3:5). This act signifies reverence and respect for God's holiness. God's Compassion God expresses His awareness of the Israelites' suffering and His intention to deliver them (Exodus 3:7-8). This demonstrates God's compassion and His active role in the lives of His people. Moses' Commission God calls Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10). Despite Moses' initial reluctance, God assures him of His presence and support. The Divine Name God reveals His name to Moses as I AM WHO I AM (Exodus 3:14). This name signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. Practical Applications Reverence for God Approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and majesty in our daily lives. Trust in God's Plan Even when we feel inadequate, trust that God equips and empowers us for the tasks He calls us to. Awareness of God's Presence Be attentive to God's presence in unexpected places and moments, just as Moses encountered God in the wilderness. Compassion for Others Reflect God's compassion by being sensitive to the suffering of others and seeking ways to help and support them. People 1. Moses Moses is the central human figure in Exodus 3. He is tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro when he encounters the burning bush. Moses is called by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. His name in Hebrew, מֹשֶׁה (Moshe), is traditionally understood to mean "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile as a baby. 2. The Angel of the LORD The Angel of the LORD appears to Moses in the flames of the burning bush. In conservative Christian theology, this figure is often understood as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, rather than a separate angelic being. The Hebrew term used is מַלְאַךְ יְהוָה (mal'akh YHWH), which can be translated as "messenger of Yahweh." 3. God God speaks to Moses from the burning bush, identifying Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He reveals His name as "I AM WHO I AM" (אֶהְיֶה אֲשֶׁר אֶהְיֶה, Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh), emphasizing His eternal and self-existent nature. This encounter marks the commissioning of Moses to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. 4. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob These patriarchs are mentioned by God when He identifies Himself to Moses. They are the forefathers of the Israelite nation, with whom God made His covenant. Their mention underscores the continuity of God's promises and His faithfulness to His people. 5. The Israelites While not individually named, the Israelites are the people whom Moses is called to lead out of Egypt. They are described as suffering under Egyptian oppression, and God expresses His concern for their plight and His intention to deliver them. Places 1. Mount Horeb Referred to as "the mountain of God" in Exodus 3:1, Mount Horeb is where Moses encounters the burning bush. The Hebrew term for Horeb (חֹרֵב, Horev) is often associated with desolation or dryness, which is fitting for its desert location. This mountain is traditionally identified with Mount Sinai, where Moses later receives the Ten Commandments. 2. Egypt Mentioned throughout Exodus 3, Egypt is the land where the Israelites are enslaved. In Exodus 3:10, God instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt. The Hebrew name for Egypt is מִצְרַיִם (Mitzrayim), which is often associated with the idea of a narrow or constrained place, reflecting the Israelites' bondage. Events 1. Moses Tends Jethro's Flock Moses is tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian, and leads the flock to the far side of the wilderness, coming to Horeb, the mountain of God. This sets the stage for his encounter with God. The Hebrew term for "tending" (רָעָה, ra'ah) implies a careful and responsible oversight of the flock. 2. The Angel of the LORD Appears The Angel of the LORD appears to Moses in a flame of fire from within a bush. Moses notices that the bush is burning but is not consumed. The Hebrew word for "angel" (מַלְאָךְ, mal'akh) can also mean "messenger," indicating a divine presence. 3. Moses Turns Aside to See Moses decides to investigate the strange sight of the burning bush that is not consumed. His curiosity and willingness to turn aside from his path are pivotal in his encounter with God. 4. God Calls to Moses from the Bush When the LORD sees that Moses has turned aside, God calls to him from within the bush, saying, "Moses, Moses!" Moses responds, "Here I am." The repetition of Moses' name signifies urgency and importance. 5. God Instructs Moses to Remove His Sandals God instructs Moses to remove his sandals because the place where he is standing is holy ground. This act of removing sandals is a sign of reverence and respect in the presence of the divine. 6. God Identifies Himself God identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses hides his face because he is afraid to look at God, acknowledging the holiness and majesty of the divine presence. 7. God Acknowledges the Suffering of His People God tells Moses that He has seen the affliction of His people in Egypt and has heard their cries because of their taskmasters. The Hebrew word for "affliction" (עֳנִי, oni) conveys a deep sense of suffering and oppression. 8. God's Plan to Deliver Israel God reveals His plan to deliver the Israelites from Egypt and bring them to a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey. This promise reflects God's covenant faithfulness. 9. God Commissions Moses God commissions Moses to go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt. This task is significant, as Moses is chosen to be the leader and deliverer of God's people. 10. Moses' Hesitation and God's Assurance Moses expresses doubt about his ability to confront Pharaoh, asking, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?" God assures Moses of His presence, saying, "I will surely be with you," and provides a sign that Moses will worship God on this mountain after bringing the people out of Egypt. 11. God Reveals His Name When Moses asks what he should say if the Israelites ask for God's name, God responds, "I AM WHO I AM." He instructs Moses to tell the Israelites, "I AM has sent me to you." The Hebrew phrase אֶהְיֶה אֲשֶׁר אֶהְיֶה (Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh) conveys God's eternal and self-existent nature. 12. God's Instructions for Moses God instructs Moses to gather the elders of Israel and tell them that the God of their fathers has appeared to him and is concerned about their suffering. God promises to bring them out of Egypt to the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. 13. God Predicts Pharaoh's Resistance God tells Moses that Pharaoh will not let the Israelites go unless compelled by a mighty hand. God promises to stretch out His hand and strike Egypt with wonders, after which Pharaoh will let them go. 14. God's Promise of Favor God promises that He will grant the Israelites favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that when they leave, they will not go empty-handed. The Israelites will plunder the Egyptians, taking articles of silver, gold, and clothing. This act of plundering is a form of divine justice and recompense for their years of slavery. Connections to Additional Scriptures God's Holiness Isaiah 6:3 - Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth. God's Compassion Psalm 34:17-18 - The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. God's Presence Matthew 28:20 - And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. God's Name John 8:58 - Truly, truly, I tell you, Jesus declared, before Abraham was born, I am! Prayer Points Reverence Pray for a deeper understanding and reverence for God's holiness in our lives. Courage Ask God for courage and strength to step into the roles and tasks He has called us to, trusting in His presence and guidance. Compassion Pray for a heart that mirrors God's compassion, seeking to alleviate the suffering of those around us. Awareness Request an increased awareness of God's presence in our daily lives, recognizing His work in both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances. Bible Study Questions 1. Why do you think God chose to appear to Moses in a burning bush? 2. How does Moses’ reaction to his call reflect our own reactions when God calls us to tasks we find daunting? 3. How does the phrase "I AM WHO I AM" resonate with you personally in understanding God's nature? 4. How does God's awareness of the Israelites' suffering speak to His character? 5. How does God's promise of the land flowing with milk and honey encourage you in your present situation? 6. Why do you think Moses was hesitant about the task given to him despite the divine assurance? 7. What does it mean to you that the place where Moses stood was considered "holy ground"? 8. What can we learn about faith from Moses’ conversation with God? 9. How does God's response to Moses' doubt reassure you in your moments of doubt? 10. How can the phrase "I will surely be with you" help us when we face difficult situations? 11. Why did God allow the Israelites to plunder the Egyptians after their liberation? 12. How does the story of Moses' calling challenge your view of God's plans for your life? 13. In what ways does God's promise to be with Moses throughout the task impact your understanding of God's presence in your life? 14. How can you apply the concept of "plundering the Egyptians" to your present-day life? 15. How does this passage inspire you to react when you feel called to do something beyond your capabilities? 16. Why do you think God insisted Moses be the one to lead the Israelites despite his self-doubt? 17. What role does faith play in answering God's call, as evidenced by Moses' experience? 18. How can you identify with Moses' fear and uncertainty in your life today? 19. How can this passage encourage someone going through oppression or difficult times? 20. In the context of the story, what does "a land flowing with milk and honey" symbolize, and how can this symbolism apply to your life? Topics 1. The Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1-3) Moses encounters a miraculous sight while tending the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law. A bush is on fire but is not consumed. This event marks the beginning of God's direct communication with Moses. The Hebrew word for "bush" is "סְנֶה" (seneh), which is unique to this passage and emphasizes the extraordinary nature of the encounter. 2. God Calls Moses (Exodus 3:4-6) God calls out to Moses from the burning bush, instructing him to remove his sandals as he is standing on holy ground. This signifies the sacredness of the encounter. The Hebrew term for "holy" is "קֹדֶשׁ" (qodesh), indicating a set-apart and consecrated space. 3. The God of the Patriarchs (Exodus 3:6) God identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, establishing continuity with the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs. This connection underscores the faithfulness of God to His people. 4. God's Awareness of Israel's Suffering (Exodus 3:7-9) God expresses His awareness of the Israelites' suffering in Egypt and His intention to deliver them. The Hebrew word for "suffering" is "מַכְאוֹב" (mak'ob), highlighting the depth of their affliction. 5. The Commissioning of Moses (Exodus 3:10-12) God commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite Moses' initial reluctance, God assures him of His presence. The Hebrew verb "שָׁלַח" (shalach) is used for "send," indicating a divine mission. 6. The Divine Name Revealed (Exodus 3:13-15) When Moses asks for God's name, God reveals Himself as "I AM WHO I AM" (Hebrew: "אֶהְיֶה אֲשֶׁר אֶהְיֶה," Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh). This name signifies God's eternal and self-existent nature, foundational to understanding His character. 7. The Promise of Deliverance (Exodus 3:16-17) God instructs Moses to gather the elders of Israel and convey the promise of deliverance to a land flowing with milk and honey. This promise reiterates the covenantal blessings and God's commitment to His people. 8. Pharaoh's Resistance Foretold (Exodus 3:18-20) God predicts Pharaoh's resistance to letting the Israelites go and promises to perform wonders to compel him. The Hebrew word "נִפְלָאוֹת" (nifla'ot) for "wonders" emphasizes the miraculous acts God will perform. 9. The Plundering of the Egyptians (Exodus 3:21-22) God assures Moses that the Israelites will not leave Egypt empty-handed but will plunder the Egyptians, taking articles of silver, gold, and clothing. This act of plundering is a form of divine justice and recompense for their years of slavery. Themes 1. Divine Revelation In Exodus 3, God reveals Himself to Moses through the burning bush. This theophany signifies God's holiness and His desire to communicate with humanity. The Hebrew word for "bush" (סְנֶה, seneh) is unique to this passage, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of this encounter. ^"There the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from within a bush."^ (Exodus 3:2) 2. God's Holiness The command to remove sandals signifies the sacredness of God's presence. The Hebrew word for "holy" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) underscores the separateness and purity of God. ^"Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."^ (Exodus 3:5) 3. Covenant Faithfulness God identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, reaffirming His covenant promises to the patriarchs. This highlights God's faithfulness across generations. ^"I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob."^ (Exodus 3:6) 4. Divine Compassion and Deliverance God expresses His awareness of the Israelites' suffering and His intention to deliver them. The Hebrew root for "deliver" (נצל, natsal) conveys rescue and salvation. ^"I have surely seen the affliction of My people in Egypt, and I have heard their cry..."^ (Exodus 3:7) 5. God's Sovereignty and Mission God commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, demonstrating His sovereign plan and the calling of individuals to fulfill His purposes. ^"So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt."^ (Exodus 3:10) 6. The Divine Name God reveals His name as "I AM WHO I AM" (אֶהְיֶה אֲשֶׁר אֶהְיֶה, Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh), signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. This name is foundational for understanding God's identity and character. ^"God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.' And He said, 'This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.'"^ (Exodus 3:14) 7. Promise of Redemption and Inheritance God promises to bring the Israelites to a land flowing with milk and honey, symbolizing abundance and fulfillment of His promises. ^"And I have promised to bring you up out of your affliction in Egypt into a land flowing with milk and honey..."^ (Exodus 3:17) Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions