Bible Study: The Deep Meaning of Exodus 3 – God’s Call of Moses
The book of Exodus, one of the fundamental texts of the Holy Scriptures, takes us on an epic and revealing journey into the history of the Hebrew people, from their slavery in Egypt to their liberation led by Moses, one of the most iconic characters in the Bible. However, before entering the waters of the Red Sea or receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, it is essential to explore one of the most emblematic chapters of Exodus: the third chapter. In it, we find Moses’ incredible experience of being called by God in the burning bush. This Bible study, titled “ The Deep Meaning of Exodus 3 – God’s Calling of Moses ,” will take us through an in-depth analysis of this chapter and the inspiring lessons it offers us.
The Divine Call Scenario
Before we delve into the details of Moses’ encounter with the divine presence at the burning bush, it is important to consider the historical and geographic context in which this event occurred. The third chapter of Exodus unfolds in the desert of Midian, where Moses, an exile from his homeland, was herding the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro. This apparently common scenario reveals the first great paradox of this story: the Almighty God chooses to manifest himself not in a grand palace or temple, but in the anonymity of the desert and in the midst of a burning bush that was not consumed.
When reading Exodus 3:1 , we find the opening words that transport us to this sacred place: “ Moses tended the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Midian; and leading the flock into the wilderness, he came to the mountain of God, Horeb.” Moses, who had once been a prince in Pharaoh’s palace, was now a humble shepherd, demonstrating a striking contrast. This contrast is significant and teaches us that God often chooses ordinary people to fulfill His divine designs. However, the location on Mount Horeb, also known as Sinai, is emblematic, since it was on this same mountain that Moses would later receive the Ten Commandments and divine guidance to guide the people of Israel.
The Burning Bush – Symbol of His Holiness
Exodus 3:2 reveals Moses’ first encounter with the extraordinary phenomenon that would change the course of his life: “And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire in the midst of a bush.” The description of the flame of fire that did not consume the bush is one of the most intriguing aspects of this passage. The burning bush, in addition to being a sign of the divine presence, also symbolizes the holiness of God. Moses, when faced with this supernatural scene, is forced to recognize that he is faced with something extraordinary and divinely ordained.
This event reminds us of the importance of recognizing God’s holiness in our everyday lives. Often, we are so immersed in our earthly concerns that we ignore His presence, just as Moses could have passed through the bush without noticing the flame. The burning bush is a reminder that God can manifest himself in unexpected and extraordinary ways in our midst, challenging us to recognize His presence and prostrate ourselves before His holiness.
God’s Call to Moses
After Moses senses the divine presence at the burning bush, we are introduced to the crucial message God had for him. In Exodus 3:4 we read the words of the Lord: “When the Lord saw that he turned to look, God called out to him from the midst of the bush and said, Moses, Moses! And he replied: Here I am!” God’s call to Moses is a crucial point in this account. God not only calls you once, but He calls you twice, emphasizing the importance and urgency of the message He wants to convey.
Moses, with his humility and readiness to respond to the call, responds promptly with “Here I am!” This is an example of how the readiness to hear and obey God’s voice is essential when we are called to fulfill his purposes. However, Moses’ journey would not be without challenges and trials, as we will see later in this study.
The Revelation of the Divine Name – “I Am That I Am”
In Exodus 3:14 , God reveals His name to Moses in a way that transcends human understanding: “And God said to Moses, I AM THAT I AM. He said further: Thus you shall say to the children of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.” This is one of the most profound and mysterious moments in the biblical narrative. God identifies himself not by a common name, but as “I Am That I Am”, which in Hebrew is Yahweh.
This divine revelation has profound theological and philosophical implications. It emphasizes the eternal and unalterable existence of God, His self-existence and autonomy. God does not depend on anything or anyone to exist; He is the very source of existence. This revelation also highlights the transcendental nature of God, which is beyond human understanding. Although we may know God in part, His fullness is beyond our ability to comprehend. This leads us to a deep reverence and adoration for the Creator of the universe.
The Call of Moses – A Divine Commission
After revealing His name to Moses, God proceeds with the commission He has for the reluctant leader. In Exodus 3:10 , He tells Moses, “Come now therefore, and I will send you to Pharaoh, that you may bring my people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” Moses’ calling was not just to witness the divine presence in the burning bush, but to be God’s instrument in the liberation of his people.
It is interesting to note the dynamics of this call. Moses, although initially reluctant and insecure, is called to a mission of great responsibility. This teaches us that God often challenges us to go beyond our own limitations and expectations. He sees potential in us that we may not see in ourselves. However, the divine calling does not guarantee a journey free from difficulties, as Moses would soon discover.
Moses’ Reluctance and Objections
Although Moses initially responded promptly to the divine call, his doubts and objections soon became apparent. In Exodus 3:11 , he responds to God by saying, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” Moses, in his humility, feels inadequate for the great task entrusted to him.
However, God does not leave Moses’ objections unanswered. He assures you of His presence and support, declaring: “I will be with you.” This statement is a powerful reminder that when God calls us, He also empowers us. Our weaknesses and limitations are not insurmountable obstacles to the divine plan. Although we may feel inadequate, God empowers and strengthens us to fulfill His will.
Signs and Wonders as Proof of Divine Authority
Moses’ objections do not end there. In Exodus 4, we see that he raises additional concerns, such as the Israelites’ unbelief and lack of oratorical skills. God responds to these concerns by providing Moses with signs and wonders that would serve as proof of His divine authority. These signs include the turning of Moses’ rod into a serpent and back into a rod, the changing of his hand into a leprous one and its restoration, as well as the ability to turn river water into blood. Each of these miracles had a specific purpose.
The signs and wonders demonstrated that the God of Israel had the power to control nature and perform supernatural miracles. This was essential to convincing both Pharaoh and the Israelites that Moses acted under divine authority. However, it is important to note that while signs have their place in confirming Moses’ mission, genuine faith is not based on miracles alone, but on a personal relationship with God.
Conclusion: Lessons and Reflections
The study of the third chapter of Exodus, and the call of Moses by God in the burning bush, reveals countless valuable lessons and reflections. Through this account, we are reminded of the sovereignty and holiness of God, who chooses ordinary people to fulfill his extraordinary purposes. The revelation of the divine name, “I Am That I Am,” reminds us of God’s transcendental nature and self-existence. Moses’ call challenges us to hear and respond to God’s voice, even when we feel inadequate. Your objections and doubts are answered with the promise of divine presence and miraculous signs.
As we explore this crucial chapter of Exodus, it is essential to remember that the Holy Scriptures contain timeless lessons that continue to inspire and guide those who seek a deeper understanding of God and His purposes. Moses’ call is a powerful reminder that when we are called by God, we can trust His enabling and presence in all circumstances. May we, like Moses, respond to the divine call with faith and obedience, knowing that He is our “I Am”, the eternal God who guides us on our spiritual journey.
