Exodus 4:17

But take this staff in your hand so you can perform signs with it."

Study Bible

But take
The directive "But take" signifies a command from God to Moses, emphasizing the necessity of obedience. In Hebrew, the word for "take" is "laqach," which implies not just a physical action but an acceptance of responsibility and authority. This command is a pivotal moment where Moses is called to actively participate in God's plan, highlighting the importance of human agency in divine missions.

this staff
The "staff" in Hebrew is "matteh," a term that can denote a branch, rod, or scepter. Historically, a staff was a symbol of authority and leadership, often used by shepherds to guide and protect their flock. In the context of Moses, the staff becomes a tangible representation of God's power and presence. It is through this ordinary object that extraordinary acts will be performed, illustrating how God can use the mundane to achieve the miraculous.

in your hand
The phrase "in your hand" underscores personal involvement and readiness. The hand, in biblical symbolism, often represents power, action, and possession. By instructing Moses to hold the staff in his hand, God is empowering him to act as His representative. This act of holding signifies readiness to execute God's will and the personal commitment required to fulfill divine tasks.

so you can perform
The purpose clause "so you can perform" indicates the intended outcome of Moses taking the staff. The Hebrew root "asah" for "perform" means to do, make, or accomplish. This suggests that the actions Moses will undertake are not of his own power but are enabled by God. It is a reminder that while humans are instruments, the efficacy of their actions is dependent on divine empowerment.

signs with it
The "signs" refer to miraculous acts that serve as evidence of God's power and authority. In Hebrew, the word "oth" is used, which can mean a sign, token, or miracle. These signs are not mere wonders but are purposeful, serving to authenticate Moses' mission and to demonstrate God's sovereignty to both the Israelites and the Egyptians. The staff, therefore, becomes a conduit for God's intervention in human history, showcasing His ability to transcend natural laws for His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this passage, Moses is chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. At this point in the account, he is being equipped by God to perform signs to validate his divine commission.

2. God
The divine speaker in this passage, God is instructing Moses on how to demonstrate His power to the Israelites and Pharaoh.

3. The Staff
A simple shepherd's staff that becomes a symbol of God's power and authority. It is through this staff that Moses will perform miraculous signs.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and from which God is planning to deliver them through Moses.

5. Signs
Miraculous acts that Moses is empowered to perform, serving as evidence of God's presence and authority.

Teaching Points

God Equips the Called
God does not call the equipped; He equips the called. Moses, despite his initial reluctance and self-doubt, is given the tools he needs to fulfill God's mission.

Symbol of Authority
The staff represents God's authority and power. In our lives, we must recognize and rely on the authority of God in our actions and decisions.

Faith in Action
Moses' use of the staff is an act of faith. We are called to step out in faith, trusting that God will work through us to accomplish His purposes.

Obedience Leads to Miracles
Moses' obedience in taking the staff and performing signs is a reminder that our obedience to God's commands can lead to miraculous outcomes.

God's Presence in the Ordinary
The transformation of a simple staff into a tool for miracles shows that God can use ordinary things in extraordinary ways. We should be open to how God might use the ordinary aspects of our lives for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the transformation of Moses' staff into a tool for signs reflect God's ability to use ordinary objects for His purposes?

2. In what ways can we identify and rely on the "staffs" in our lives that God has given us to perform His work?

3. How does Moses' initial reluctance to accept God's call compare to our own hesitations in following God's direction?

4. What are some modern-day "signs" that can demonstrate God's power and presence in our lives and communities?

5. How can we cultivate a faith like Moses that is willing to act on God's promises, even when the outcome is uncertain?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:8-12
This passage describes the first instance where Moses uses the staff to perform a sign before Pharaoh, turning it into a serpent. This connection highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to empower Moses through the staff.

Numbers 20:7-11
Here, Moses uses the staff to bring water from a rock, demonstrating God's provision and the continued use of the staff as a tool for divine miracles.

Hebrews 11:23-29
This New Testament passage references Moses' faith, which is crucial in his acceptance of God's command to use the staff for signs.