Exodus 10:25

But Moses replied, "You must also provide us with sacrifices and burnt offerings to present to the LORD our God.

Study Bible

But Moses replied
This phrase indicates a response, suggesting a dialogue or negotiation. Moses, as the leader and prophet, is speaking with authority and conviction. The Hebrew root for "replied" (עָנָה, 'anah) often implies a thoughtful or deliberate response, highlighting Moses' role as a mediator between God and Pharaoh. Historically, Moses' replies are not just personal opinions but divinely inspired directives, emphasizing his prophetic role.

You must also provide us
The phrase underscores a demand or requirement. The Hebrew word for "provide" (נָתַן, natan) means to give or deliver. This reflects the Israelites' dependence on God's provision and Pharaoh's obligation to comply with God's will. In the historical context, this demand challenges Pharaoh's authority, asserting that the Israelites' worship needs are non-negotiable and divinely mandated.

with sacrifices and burnt offerings
Sacrifices (זֶבַח, zevach) and burnt offerings (עוֹלָה, olah) are central to Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God. The sacrificial system, deeply rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, required specific offerings to maintain holiness and fellowship with God. Archaeological findings, such as altars and sacrificial remains, corroborate the importance of these practices in ancient Near Eastern cultures.

to present to the LORD our God
This phrase emphasizes the purpose of the sacrifices: to honor and worship Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. The Hebrew word for "present" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies an act of worship or service. The use of "LORD" (יהוה, YHWH) signifies the personal name of God, highlighting the intimate and exclusive relationship between God and His people. The phrase "our God" reinforces the communal identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people, bound by covenant to worship Him alone.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage. In this verse, Moses is negotiating with Pharaoh regarding the terms of the Israelites' departure.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who is resistant to letting the Israelites go. His heart is hardened, and he is unwilling to fully comply with God's demands through Moses.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It represents a place of bondage and oppression for God's people.

4. Sacrifices and Burnt Offerings
These are acts of worship and obedience to God, signifying the Israelites' devotion and submission to Him.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who demands worship and obedience from His people and is orchestrating their deliverance from Egypt.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship
Worship is central to the life of a believer. Just as Moses insisted on sacrifices and offerings, we must prioritize worship in our lives, recognizing it as a response to God's deliverance.

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' insistence on sacrifices underscores the importance of obedience. We are called to obey God's commands, trusting that His ways are higher than ours.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The account of Exodus highlights God's power and sovereignty in delivering His people. We can trust in God's ability to deliver us from our own "Egypts"—situations of bondage and oppression.

The Role of Leadership
Moses exemplifies godly leadership by standing firm in God's commands. As leaders in various capacities, we must seek to lead with integrity and faithfulness to God's Word.

The Cost of Worship
True worship often requires sacrifice. We must be willing to give up our own desires and comforts to honor God fully.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' insistence on sacrifices and offerings reflect the importance of worship in our own lives today?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, similar to Moses' example?

3. How does the concept of sacrifice in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus' sacrifice?

4. What are some "Egypts" in your life from which you need God's deliverance, and how can you trust in His sovereignty?

5. How can you apply the principles of godly leadership demonstrated by Moses in your own areas of influence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1-7
These chapters detail the laws concerning sacrifices and offerings, emphasizing their importance in the Israelites' worship and relationship with God.

Hebrews 10:1-18
This passage discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which fulfills the Old Testament sacrificial system, highlighting the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system and emphasizing a life of worship and obedience.