“And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?”
Exodus 3:11 is part of the account where God revealed Himself to Moses through a burning bush and commissioned him to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Let’s explore the verse and its context to gain a better understanding.
Historical Context:The Israelites had been living in Egypt for several generations and had become enslaved by the Egyptians. God heard their cries and chose Moses to be their deliverer. In this verse, Moses is speaking directly to God after God had revealed His plan to him.
Moses’ Humility:Moses’ response to God’s call reveals his humility and sense of unworthiness. He asks, “Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?” Moses felt inadequate for such a monumental task, questioning his own abilities and qualifications.
Recognition of God’s Power:Moses’ question reflects his understanding of the immense power and authority of Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. Moses acknowledges that going before Pharaoh and leading the Israelites out of Egypt is not a simple task. He is aware of his limitations and the challenges involved in confronting the mighty Pharaoh.
Dependence on God:Moses’ question also demonstrates his dependence on God. By asking, “Who am I?” he recognizes that he cannot accomplish this task on his own. He acknowledges his need for God’s guidance, provision, and strength to fulfill the role God has called him to.
God’s Response:God responds to Moses’ question in the following verses, assuring him of His presence, promising to be with him, and equipping him with signs and wonders to demonstrate His power before Pharaoh and the people of Egypt.
Overall, Exodus 3:11 highlights Moses’ humility, his recognition of the magnitude of the task at hand, and his dependence on God. It teaches us the importance of relying on God’s strength and guidance, even when we feel inadequate or faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. It reminds us that God equips those He calls and provides everything necessary to fulfill His purposes.
