Topical Encyclopedia The commands given to Moses and Aaron are pivotal in the narrative of the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land. These commands, issued by God, are foundational to the establishment of Israel as a nation under divine law and guidance. Moses and Aaron, as leaders chosen by God, are central figures in executing His will and delivering His instructions to the people.1. The Call and Commissioning of Moses and Aaron The initial command to Moses occurs at the burning bush, where God reveals Himself and commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. In Exodus 3:10, God commands, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Despite Moses' hesitations, God reassures him of His presence and appoints Aaron as his spokesperson (Exodus 4:14-16). 2. Instructions for the Exodus God provides specific instructions to Moses and Aaron regarding the liberation of the Israelites. In Exodus 12, they receive detailed commands about the Passover, a critical event marking the Israelites' deliverance. Exodus 12:1-3 states, "Now the LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, 'This month is the beginning of months for you; it shall be the first month of your year. Tell the whole congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man must select a lamb for his family, one per household.'" 3. The Giving of the Law After the Exodus, God commands Moses to ascend Mount Sinai to receive the Law, which includes the Ten Commandments and various ordinances. These laws are meant to govern the moral, ceremonial, and civil life of the Israelites. In Exodus 19:3-6, God instructs Moses, "This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 'You have seen for yourselves what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself. Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine.'" 4. The Role of Aaron as High Priest Aaron, as the brother of Moses, is appointed as the first high priest, a role that comes with specific commands regarding worship and sacrifices. In Exodus 28:1, God commands, "Bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron and his sons Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar." The priesthood is established to mediate between God and the people, with Aaron and his descendants serving in this sacred capacity. 5. Leadership and Rebellion Throughout their leadership, Moses and Aaron face challenges and rebellions from the people. In Numbers 20, God commands Moses and Aaron to speak to the rock to bring forth water for the Israelites. However, Moses strikes the rock instead, leading to God's rebuke and the decree that neither Moses nor Aaron would enter the Promised Land (Numbers 20:12). 6. The Legacy of Obedience and Faithfulness The commands to Moses and Aaron underscore themes of obedience, faithfulness, and the consequences of disobedience. Their leadership, guided by divine command, sets the stage for the unfolding of God's covenantal promises to Israel. Moses and Aaron's roles highlight the importance of adhering to God's instructions and the impact of their leadership on the history and faith of the Israelite nation. |