“And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.”
Exodus 4:23 is part of a dialogue between Moses and God, where God is giving Moses instructions on how to approach Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt. In this verse, God is instructing Moses to deliver a strong message to Pharaoh, warning him of the consequences if he refuses to let the Israelites go.
Context: To understand the verse better, it’s important to consider the context of the entire book of Exodus. The Israelites had been enslaved in Egypt for many years, and God chose Moses to be their deliverer and lead them out of captivity. Moses was initially hesitant and presented several objections to God, including a fear of his own inadequacy and his concern about how the Israelites would believe him. In response, God assured Moses that He would be with him, and He provided signs and wonders to confirm His presence and power.
God’s command: In Exodus 4:23, God speaks to Moses, instructing him to go to Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites by saying, “Let my son go, that he may serve me.” Here, God refers to the Israelites as His son, emphasizing their special relationship as His chosen people. God desired their freedom so that they could worship and serve Him according to His commandments.
Warning of consequences: In the latter part of the verse, God warns Pharaoh of the consequences if he refuses to let the Israelites go: “if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.” This warning foreshadows the final and most devastating plague that would befall Egypt-the death of the firstborn.
Themes and lessons:
- God’s sovereignty and power: Exodus 4:23 demonstrates God’s authority and power over the rulers of the earth. He exercises control over life and death and has the power to execute judgment.
- God’s concern for His people: God is deeply invested in the well-being of His chosen people. He desires their freedom from oppression and their ability to worship and serve Him.
- Pharaoh’s hardened heart: Throughout the Exodus narrative, Pharaoh’s heart is repeatedly described as being hardened, and this verse hints at the eventual judgment that would come upon him and the people of Egypt for their stubbornness and refusal to let the Israelites go.
- The fulfillment of prophecy: The warning about the slaying of the firstborn foreshadows the final plague in Exodus, where God passes through Egypt, striking down the firstborn of both man and beast. This event serves as a powerful testimony to the accuracy and fulfillment of God’s word.
Application: As we reflect on Exodus 4:23, we can draw lessons for our own lives. We learn that God is sovereign, and His plans will ultimately prevail. We are reminded of His concern for His people and His desire for their freedom from any form of bondage. We should heed the warnings of God’s Word and respond to His call, just as Moses did, trusting in His power and provision.
Overall, Exodus 4:23 highlights the tension between God’s desire for the liberation of His people and the consequences that result from resisting His will. It teaches us about the nature of God and His dealings with humanity while providing valuable insights into the story of the Exodus and the themes that emerge from it.
