God's command to Moses is a pivotal moment in biblical history, marking the beginning of the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. This divine directive is recorded primarily in the Book of Exodus, where God calls Moses to lead His people out of slavery and into the Promised Land.

The Burning Bush Encounter

The initial command from God to Moses occurs in Exodus 3, where Moses encounters the Angel of the Lord in a burning bush on Mount Horeb. The bush is aflame yet not consumed, symbolizing God's holy presence. God calls out to Moses, instructing him to remove his sandals, for he is standing on holy ground (Exodus 3:5). This encounter signifies the sanctity and seriousness of the mission Moses is about to undertake.

God's Commission

God reveals His identity to Moses as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, affirming His covenantal faithfulness. He expresses His awareness of the Israelites' suffering in Egypt and His intention to deliver them (Exodus 3:6-9). God commands Moses, saying, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt" (Exodus 3:10).

Moses' Reluctance and God's Assurance

Moses expresses hesitation, questioning his own ability to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites. God reassures him with the promise of His presence: "I will surely be with you" (Exodus 3:12). God provides Moses with signs to perform, such as turning his staff into a serpent and making his hand leprous and then healed, to validate his divine commission (Exodus 4:1-7).

The Divine Name

In response to Moses' concern about what to say to the Israelites, God reveals His name as "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14), signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. This name, often rendered as Yahweh, underscores God's unchanging and faithful character.

Instructions for Deliverance

God provides Moses with specific instructions for the liberation of the Israelites. He is to gather the elders of Israel and convey God's promise of deliverance. God forewarns Moses of Pharaoh's resistance but assures him that He will compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites through mighty acts of judgment (Exodus 3:16-20).

The Role of Aaron

Recognizing Moses' apprehension about speaking, God appoints Aaron, Moses' brother, as his spokesperson. God tells Moses, "He will speak to the people for you. He will be your spokesman, and you will serve as God to him" (Exodus 4:16). This partnership highlights God's provision and support for Moses' mission.

The Exodus

Following God's command, Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites. Through a series of plagues, God demonstrates His power and sovereignty over Egypt's gods, culminating in the Passover and the Exodus. The Israelites' departure from Egypt is a fulfillment of God's promise and a testament to His faithfulness and might.

Significance

God's command to Moses is foundational to the narrative of redemption in the Bible. It sets the stage for the establishment of Israel as a nation and the giving of the Law at Sinai. This command underscores themes of divine calling, obedience, and the fulfillment of God's promises, serving as a powerful reminder of God's deliverance and covenantal love for His people.