“Then the Lord said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, Thus saith the Lord God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me.”
Context: The book of Exodus recounts the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This verse is part of the narrative of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage.
Divine Instruction: In this verse, the Lord spoke to Moses, instructing him to go to Pharaoh and deliver a message on His behalf. Moses was to convey God’s demand to Pharaoh, proclaiming that the Lord, God of the Hebrews, required the liberation of His people so that they could serve Him.
Authority of God: The phrase “Thus saith the Lord God of the Hebrews” emphasizes the divine authority behind the message. By identifying Himself as the God of the Hebrews, God asserts His sovereignty over the Israelites and Egypt.
Purpose of Liberation: God’s primary purpose for the liberation of the Israelites was for them to serve Him. The Hebrew word for “serve” used here is “avad,” which can also mean “worship” or “obey.” The Israelites were not merely to be freed from slavery but to be able to worship and obey God fully as His chosen people.
Persistence and Patience: The repeated encounters between Moses, as the representative of God, and Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, demonstrate God’s persistence and Pharaoh’s stubborn resistance. Despite the escalating plagues, Pharaoh repeatedly refused to release the Israelites, resulting in further judgments upon Egypt.
Application to Believers: While this verse specifically refers to the deliverance of the Israelites from physical slavery, it carries spiritual significance for believers today. God desires to liberate people from the bondage of sin and grant them freedom to worship and serve Him. As Christians, we are called to accept God’s invitation to be set free, to serve Him wholeheartedly, and to fulfill our purpose in His kingdom.
Overall, Exodus 9:1 highlights the authority of God, His persistent call for liberation, and the purpose of serving Him. It serves as a reminder of God’s power, faithfulness, and desire for a genuine relationship with His people.
