The commissioning of Moses is a pivotal event in the biblical narrative, marking the beginning of God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Exodus, chapters 3 and 4, where God calls Moses to lead His people out of Egypt.

Background

Moses, born to Hebrew parents during a time of severe oppression, was raised in Pharaoh's household after being found by Pharaoh's daughter (Exodus 2:1-10). Despite his Egyptian upbringing, Moses retained a connection to his Hebrew roots. After killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave, Moses fled to Midian, where he lived as a shepherd and married Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, the priest of Midian (Exodus 2:11-22).

The Burning Bush

The commissioning begins with Moses' encounter with God at Mount Horeb, also known as Mount Sinai. While tending his father-in-law's flock, Moses sees a bush that is burning yet not consumed. This miraculous sight draws him closer, and God calls to him from the bush, saying, "Moses, Moses!" (Exodus 3:4). God instructs Moses to remove his sandals, for he is standing on holy ground (Exodus 3:5).

God's Revelation and Mission

God reveals Himself to Moses as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and expresses His awareness of the Israelites' suffering in Egypt. He declares His intention to deliver them and bring them to a land flowing with milk and honey (Exodus 3:6-8). God commissions Moses to go to Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10).

Moses' Hesitation and God's Assurance

Moses expresses doubt about his ability to fulfill this mission, questioning, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" (Exodus 3:11). God reassures him, promising His presence: "I will surely be with you" (Exodus 3:12). God also provides Moses with His name, "I AM WHO I AM," to convey to the Israelites (Exodus 3:14).

Despite God's assurances, Moses continues to express concerns, questioning his speaking ability and the Israelites' belief in his mission. In response, God provides Moses with signs to perform, such as turning his staff into a serpent and making his hand leprous and then healed (Exodus 4:1-7). God also appoints Aaron, Moses' brother, to be his spokesperson (Exodus 4:14-16).

The Significance of the Commissioning

The commissioning of Moses is significant for several reasons. It marks the beginning of the Exodus, a foundational event in Israel's history that demonstrates God's power and faithfulness. It also highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to use unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes. Moses' initial reluctance and God's patient reassurance underscore the theme of divine empowerment and the importance of obedience to God's call.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the commissioning of Moses reveals God's covenantal faithfulness and His concern for His people's suffering. It also introduces the concept of divine revelation, as God discloses His name and character to Moses. The event foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who, like Moses, is called to lead His people to freedom, not from physical bondage, but from sin and death.

In summary, the commissioning of Moses is a profound moment in biblical history, illustrating God's redemptive plan and His desire to work through human agents to accomplish His divine will.