“And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying,”
This verse serves as the opening statement for a significant event in the book of Exodus-the institution of the Passover. Here, God addresses Moses and Aaron while they are in the land of Egypt, giving them instructions regarding the upcoming Passover feast.
To understand the context of this verse fully, it’s important to recognize the preceding events. In the earlier chapters of Exodus, God had sent Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh with a message to let the Israelites, who were in bondage in Egypt, go free. However, Pharaoh repeatedly refused to release them, and Egypt experienced a series of devastating plagues as a result.
The tenth and final plague was the death of the firstborn. God instructed the Israelites to take a lamb without blemish on the tenth day of the first month, keep it until the fourteenth day, and then slaughter it at twilight. They were to take some of the lamb’s blood and apply it to the doorposts and lintel of their houses. This act of obedience would signify their faith in God’s instructions and set them apart from the Egyptians.
In Exodus 12:1, God addresses Moses and Aaron, affirming their presence in the land of Egypt. This verse highlights the divine authority and communication between God and His chosen leaders. It signifies the initiation of God’s commandments concerning the Passover and foreshadows the liberation of the Israelites from slavery.
Moreover, this verse reflects the importance of obedience to God’s instructions. God instructed Moses and Aaron, and subsequently, the Israelites, on the specific actions they needed to take to be spared from the plague of the firstborn. Their faith and obedience in following God’s commandments would result in their deliverance and salvation.
In summary, Exodus 12:1 serves as a transitional verse, marking the beginning of God’s instructions regarding the Passover. It emphasizes the divine communication between God and His chosen leaders, Moses and Aaron, and highlights the significance of faith and obedience in carrying out God’s instructions.
Remember, studying the Bible comprehensively involves exploring the surrounding verses, chapters, and the book as a whole, as they provide a richer understanding of the message and its application.
