Exodus 7:1

The LORD answered Moses, "See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet.

Study Bible

The LORD answered Moses
This phrase emphasizes the direct communication between God and Moses, highlighting the unique relationship Moses had with God. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, which signifies His eternal and self-existent nature. This divine interaction underscores the authority and assurance Moses receives from God, reinforcing the idea that God is actively involved in the deliverance of His people.

See
The Hebrew word used here is "ra'ah," which means to perceive or understand. It is a call for Moses to recognize and comprehend the divine empowerment and authority being bestowed upon him. This word serves as an invitation for Moses to grasp the gravity and significance of his role in God's plan.

I have made you like God to Pharaoh
The phrase "like God" is pivotal, as it indicates the authority and power Moses is given over Pharaoh. The Hebrew word "Elohim" is used here, which can mean God or gods, but in this context, it signifies a representative of divine authority. Moses is to act as God's mouthpiece, demonstrating God's power and will to Pharaoh, who considered himself a deity. This challenges the Egyptian belief system and asserts the supremacy of the God of Israel.

and your brother Aaron will be your prophet
In this context, a "prophet" is one who speaks on behalf of another. The Hebrew word "navi" is used, which traditionally means a spokesperson or one who is inspired to speak for God. Aaron's role as a prophet to Moses signifies the collaborative effort in God's plan, where Aaron articulates the divine messages Moses receives. This partnership highlights the importance of obedience and teamwork in fulfilling God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is orchestrating the deliverance of His people from Egypt.

2. Moses
The chosen leader of the Israelites, who is empowered by God to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who is seen as a god in his own right by the Egyptians, yet is about to witness the power of the true God.

4. Aaron
Moses' brother, who serves as his spokesperson or prophet, communicating God's messages to Pharaoh.

5. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, and the setting for the unfolding of God's mighty acts of deliverance.

Teaching Points

Divine Empowerment
God equips those He calls. Just as Moses was made "like God" to Pharaoh, believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill their God-given missions.

Role of Prophets
Aaron's role as a prophet underscores the importance of speaking God's truth. Believers today are called to be messengers of God's Word.

Authority and Responsibility
Being "like God" to others carries a significant responsibility. Christians are called to reflect God's character and authority in their interactions.

Partnership in Ministry
Moses and Aaron's partnership illustrates the importance of working together in ministry. God often uses teams to accomplish His purposes.

Confronting Worldly Powers
Just as Moses confronted Pharaoh, believers are called to stand firm against worldly systems that oppose God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Moses' role as "like God" to Pharaoh change your perspective on the authority God gives to His followers?

2. In what ways can you act as a "prophet" in your own life, speaking God's truth to those around you?

3. How does the partnership between Moses and Aaron encourage you to seek collaboration in your own ministry or service?

4. What are some modern-day "Pharaohs" or systems of power that Christians are called to confront, and how can we do so effectively?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt empowered by God to accomplish a task. How did that experience shape your faith and understanding of God's provision?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 4:16
This verse establishes Aaron's role as Moses' prophet, reinforcing the idea that God equips His chosen leaders with the necessary support.

Psalm 82:6
This passage speaks to the concept of being "like God," highlighting the authority and responsibility given to those who represent God.

John 1:1-14
The role of a prophet and the Word of God is further expanded in the New Testament, where Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God.

1 Corinthians 12:28-29
The New Testament church is given various roles and gifts, similar to how Moses and Aaron were given specific roles in God's plan.

Hebrews 3:1-6
Moses is compared to Jesus, showing the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan through different leaders.