Articles

Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3)

Grace

Introduction

The encounter of Moses with God at the burning bush is a pivotal moment in the Bible, marking the beginning of God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt. This story highlights themes of calling, God’s presence, and His power to deliver.

The Burning Bush

  1. Moses’ Life in Midian: After fleeing Egypt, Moses lives in Midian, tending the flocks of his father-in-law, Jethro. One day, he leads the flock to Horeb, the mountain of God.
  2. The Encounter: Moses sees a bush that is on fire but not consumed. Curious, he approaches, and God calls to him from within the bush, telling him to remove his sandals, for he is on holy ground.

God’s Call and Commission

  1. God’s Identity: God identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses hides his face, afraid to look at God.
  2. God’s Mission: God tells Moses that He has seen the suffering of His people in Egypt and has come to deliver them. He commissions Moses to go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt.

Moses’ Hesitation and God’s Assurance

  1. Moses’ Doubts: Moses expresses doubts about his ability to fulfill this mission, questioning his worthiness and fearing that the Israelites will not believe him.
  2. God’s Assurance: God reassures Moses, promising to be with him and giving him signs to perform to prove his divine commission. God also reveals His name, “I AM WHO I AM,” underscoring His eternal, self-existent nature.

Theological Insights

  1. Divine Calling: The story emphasizes God’s initiative in calling and commissioning individuals for His purposes, often in unexpected ways.
  2. God’s Presence: God’s assurance to be with Moses highlights the importance of His presence in empowering and guiding His servants.
  3. Revelation of God’s Name: The revelation of God’s name, “I AM,” signifies His eternal, unchanging nature and His faithfulness to His promises.

Application for Today

  1. Responding to God’s Call: Moses’ story encourages us to be open to God’s call, even when we feel inadequate or unworthy, trusting that He will equip us for the task.
  2. Relying on God’s Presence: Understanding that God’s presence is with us in our endeavors gives us confidence and courage to face challenges.
  3. Knowing God’s Nature: Reflecting on God’s self-revelation as “I AM” helps us to trust in His unchanging nature and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises.

Conclusion

The story of Moses and the burning bush teaches us about responding to God’s call, relying on His presence, and understanding His eternal nature. Reflecting on this narrative encourages us to trust in God’s guidance and faithfulness as we pursue His purposes in our lives.