The Lord's instructions to Moses and Aaron are a significant aspect of the narrative of the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land. These instructions encompass a wide range of directives, including laws, rituals, and guidance for leadership, which are foundational to the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people.

1. The Call and Commissioning of Moses and Aaron

The initial call of Moses is found in Exodus 3, where God speaks to him from the burning bush. God reveals His name as "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14) and commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Aaron, Moses' brother, is appointed as his spokesperson due to Moses' reluctance and claimed lack of eloquence (Exodus 4:10-16).

2. Instructions for Deliverance from Egypt

The Lord provides specific instructions for the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. These include the performance of signs and wonders before Pharaoh (Exodus 7:1-5) and the institution of the Passover, a pivotal event marking the Israelites' liberation. The Passover instructions are detailed in Exodus 12, where God commands the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood, ensuring their protection from the final plague.

3. The Giving of the Law at Sinai

After the Exodus, the Israelites arrive at Mount Sinai, where God delivers the Ten Commandments and other laws to Moses. These laws, found in Exodus 20-23, form the basis of the covenant and outline the moral, civil, and ceremonial obligations of the Israelites. The Lord's instructions emphasize holiness, justice, and worship, establishing a framework for the community's relationship with God and one another.

4. Instructions for the Tabernacle and Priesthood

In Exodus 25-31, God provides detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for worship, and the establishment of the priesthood. Aaron and his sons are consecrated as priests, with specific duties and garments described in Exodus 28-29. The Tabernacle serves as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, and the priesthood mediates between God and Israel.

5. The Role of Moses and Aaron in the Wilderness

Throughout the wilderness journey, Moses and Aaron receive ongoing instructions from the Lord. These include guidance on leadership, such as the appointment of elders to assist Moses (Numbers 11:16-17), and directives for maintaining purity and order within the camp (Leviticus 11-15). The Lord also provides instructions for various offerings and feasts, reinforcing the importance of worship and obedience.

6. The Rebellion and Consequences

Despite the clear instructions from the Lord, the Israelites frequently rebel, leading to consequences and further instructions. Notably, in Numbers 20, Moses and Aaron face the consequences of their own disobedience when they fail to honor God at the waters of Meribah. As a result, they are denied entry into the Promised Land (Numbers 20:12).

7. Final Instructions and Transition of Leadership

As the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land, Moses receives final instructions from the Lord, which he imparts to the people in the book of Deuteronomy. These include a reiteration of the law and a call to covenant faithfulness. Moses appoints Joshua as his successor, ensuring the continuity of leadership (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).

The Lord's instructions to Moses and Aaron are integral to the formation of Israel as a nation set apart for God's purposes. These directives underscore the themes of obedience, holiness, and the centrality of worship in the life of God's people.