Moses' reluctance to accept God's call to lead the Israelites out of Egypt is a significant episode in the biblical narrative, illustrating human hesitation in the face of divine commission. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Exodus, chapters 3 and 4, where Moses encounters God in the form of a burning bush on Mount Horeb.

The Call of Moses

In Exodus 3:1-10, Moses is tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro when he sees a bush that is burning but not consumed. God calls to him from the bush, revealing His plan to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage and appointing Moses as the leader to accomplish this task. The Lord says, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt" (Exodus 3:10).

Expressions of Reluctance

Moses' reluctance is expressed through a series of objections and questions, reflecting his feelings of inadequacy and fear:

1. Question of Identity: Moses first questions his own identity and worthiness, asking, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" (Exodus 3:11). This reflects his humility and sense of unworthiness for such a monumental task.

2. Doubt of Authority: Moses is concerned about the authority and credibility he would have among the Israelites. He asks, "What if they ask me, ‘What is His name?’ What should I tell them?" (Exodus 3:13). God responds by revealing His name as "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14), affirming His eternal and self-existent nature.

3. Fear of Unbelief: Moses expresses fear that the Israelites will not believe him or listen to his voice, saying, "What if they do not believe me or listen to my voice? For they may say, ‘The LORD has not appeared to you’" (Exodus 4:1). In response, God provides Moses with miraculous signs, such as turning his staff into a serpent and making his hand leprous and then healed, to authenticate his divine commission.

4. Concern Over Eloquence: Moses protests his lack of eloquence, stating, "O Lord, I am not eloquent—neither in the past nor since You have spoken to Your servant—for I am slow of speech and tongue" (Exodus 4:10). God reassures him, saying, "Who gave man his mouth? ... Is it not I, the LORD? Now go! I will help you as you speak, and I will teach you what to say" (Exodus 4:11-12).

5. Request for Another: Finally, Moses pleads, "O Lord, please send someone else" (Exodus 4:13). This plea reveals his deep-seated reluctance and desire to avoid the responsibility. In response, the LORD's anger burns against Moses, yet He graciously appoints Aaron, Moses' brother, to be his spokesman (Exodus 4:14-16).

Divine Assurance and Provision

Throughout Moses' expressions of reluctance, God provides assurance and promises His presence. He assures Moses, "I will be with you" (Exodus 3:12), and provides Aaron as a helper. This narrative highlights God's patience and provision, equipping Moses with the necessary tools and support to fulfill his divine mission.

Significance

Moses' reluctance serves as a profound example of human frailty and the struggle to trust in God's plan. It underscores the theme of divine empowerment, where God chooses and equips the seemingly inadequate to accomplish His purposes. Moses' eventual acceptance of his role marks the beginning of a pivotal journey in the history of Israel, demonstrating that God's strength is made perfect in human weakness.