Exodus 4:1

KJV

¶ And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The LORD hath not appeared unto thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} answered {H6030} and said {H559}, But, behold, they will not believe {H539} me, nor hearken {H8085} unto my voice {H6963}: for they will say {H559}, The LORD {H3068} hath not appeared {H7200} unto thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe replied, "But I'm certain they won't believe me, and they won't listen to what I say, because they'll say, 'ADONAI did not appear to you.'"

Berean Standard Bible

Then Moses answered, “What if they do not believe me or listen to my voice? For they may say, ‘The LORD has not appeared to you.’”

American Standard Version

And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice; for they will say, Jehovah hath not appeared unto thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 4:1 captures Moses' immediate and deeply human hesitation following God's profound commission at the burning bush. Despite his direct encounter with the Almighty, Moses voices a fundamental concern that the Israelites will not accept his divine mandate, fearing they will dismiss his claims by asserting, "The LORD hath not appeared unto thee." This pivotal moment highlights the tension between divine command and human apprehension, setting the stage for God's patient provision of validating signs to bolster Moses' credibility and the people's faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a critical pivot point in the narrative of Moses' call. It immediately follows God's detailed instructions in [Exodus 3](/exodus/3 "Exodus 3 - The Burning Bush and God's Commission") regarding Moses' mission to deliver Israel from Egyptian bondage and lead them to the Promised Land. Moses has already raised several objections concerning his personal inadequacy ("Who am I?" in [Exodus 3:11](/exodus/3-11 "Moses' Question of Identity")) and the divine name he should use ("What is His name?" in [Exodus 3:13](/exodus/3-13 "Moses' Question about God's Name")). In [Exodus 4:1](/exodus/4-1 "Exodus 4:1 - Moses' Hesitation"), Moses shifts his focus from his own perceived limitations to the anticipated skepticism of the Israelite elders and the wider community. His fear that they will reject his claims of a divine encounter ("The LORD hath not appeared unto thee") directly prompts God to provide a series of miraculous signs to validate Moses' authority, beginning immediately in [Exodus 4:2-9](/exodus/4-2-9 "God Provides Signs for Moses").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites had endured centuries of brutal slavery in Egypt, a period marked by severe oppression, forced labor, and the systematic killing of their male infants ([Exodus 1:8-22](/exodus/1-8-22 "The Oppression of Israel in Egypt")). This prolonged suffering likely fostered deep cynicism and a sense of abandonment, making them wary of any new promises or claims of divine intervention. They had witnessed numerous false hopes and had become accustomed to their plight. For Moses to suddenly appear, claiming a direct revelation from a God who seemed distant for generations, would naturally invite skepticism. Furthermore, in ancient Near Eastern cultures, a messenger's authority was intrinsically linked to the power and credibility of the one who sent them. Moses understood that his message, however divinely inspired, would be dismissed without tangible proof that the God of their ancestors had indeed "appeared" to him and was now actively intervening on their behalf.
* **Key Themes:** [Exodus 4:1](/exodus/4-1 "Exodus 4:1 - Moses' Hesitation") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. It underscores the theme of **Divine Commission and Human Hesitation**, illustrating that even those divinely chosen for monumental tasks often grapple with profound doubt and a sense of inadequacy. It also highlights the **Nature of Faith and Trust**, revealing that true belief (beyond mere intellectual assent) often requires tangible evidence, especially when confronting deep-seated skepticism. Furthermore, the verse introduces the theme of **God's Patience and Provision**, as God, rather than rebuking Moses, patiently addresses his fears by offering concrete proofs and solutions. This moment sets the stage for the recurring theme of **Divine Validation**, where God repeatedly confirms His word and His chosen instruments through miraculous signs and wonders, preparing both Moses and the Israelites for the mighty acts of deliverance that would follow ([Exodus 7-12](/exodus/7-12 "The Plagues of Egypt")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Moses' response in [Exodus 4:1](/exodus/4-1 "Moses' Doubt") reveals a profound human struggle with faith and obedience, even after a direct encounter with the Almighty. His concern is not merely intellectual disbelief but a deeper failure of trust and willingness to obey, rooted in the anticipated skepticism of others.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **believe (Hebrew, _ʼâman'_):** From H539. This primitive root signifies more than simple intellectual assent; it means "to build up or support," "to foster as a parent or nurse," and figuratively "to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanent or quiet." When Moses fears the Israelites will not "believe" him, he anticipates they will not place firm trust or confidence in his divine appointment, nor will they consider his message reliable or true. This word is the root of "Amen," emphasizing certainty and faithfulness.
* **hearken (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** From H8085. This primitive root means "to hear intelligently," often with the implication of attention, obedience, or consent. Moses' concern that they will not "hearken unto my voice" indicates a fear that the Israelites will not only fail to listen attentively to his message but, more importantly, will refuse to obey the divine commands conveyed through him. Lack of belief, in Moses' mind, directly leads to disobedience and rejection of God's authority.
* **appeared (Hebrew, _râʼâh'_):** From H7200. This primitive root means "to see, literally or figuratively," and in various applications, "to appear," "to behold," or "to discern." Moses' specific fear that "The LORD hath not appeared unto thee" directly challenges the very foundation of his authority. He understands that his credibility hinges entirely on the Israelites' acceptance of his claim to have had a direct, visible, and undeniable encounter with Yahweh. This word emphasizes the visual, tangible manifestation of God's presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses answered and said,"**: This introductory phrase highlights Moses' active engagement in a dialogue with God, not merely a passive reception of divine commands. It signals his human agency and the unfolding of his internal struggle as he processes the monumental task laid before him.
* **"But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice:"**: Moses articulates his primary apprehension. The "But, behold" (or "Indeed") introduces a strong counter-argument to God's commission. He anticipates a two-fold rejection from the Israelites: a lack of fundamental trust ("believe") in his divine appointment and a refusal to obey ("hearken") the message he brings. This reveals his deep concern for the practical reception of his mission among a skeptical people.
* **"for they will say, The LORD hath not appeared unto thee."**: This clause provides the specific reason for the Israelites' anticipated disbelief and disobedience. Moses understands that the credibility of his entire mission rests upon the authenticity of his claim to a direct, personal encounter with Yahweh. He fears that the Israelites, having not witnessed the burning bush themselves, will dismiss his testimony as a fabrication, thereby undermining his authority and the divine message.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Dialogue**, presenting Moses' direct response to God's commission, which allows for a realistic portrayal of human doubt in the face of divine calling. There is also a strong element of **Anticipation**, as Moses projects the future reaction of the Israelites, revealing his anxieties about their skepticism. This anticipation serves as a **Foreshadowing** of the challenges Moses will indeed face in leading a stubborn and often unbelieving people. Furthermore, there is a subtle **Irony** present: Moses, who has just experienced a profound divine manifestation at the burning bush, immediately doubts that others will believe his account of that very appearance, highlighting the persistent human tendency to rely on visible evidence and the opinions of others rather than solely on divine assurance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Moses' initial reluctance and the specific doubt he expresses in [Exodus 4:1](/exodus/4-1 "Moses' Doubt") are profoundly theological. They underscore the reality that God's call often encounters human weakness, fear, and a sense of inadequacy, even in those chosen for monumental tasks. This moment highlights the critical nature of faith, which is not merely intellectual assent but a profound trust and reliance on God's word and His chosen instruments, leading to obedience. Rather than rebuking Moses for his doubt, God patiently addresses his fears by immediately offering concrete proofs and solutions, demonstrating His willingness to equip and empower His servants. This divine patience and provision reveal God's understanding of humanity's need for tangible evidence, especially when a message requires significant societal change or a radical shift in belief. God provides signs to confirm His word and His messenger's authority, establishing the credibility necessary for effective spiritual leadership.

* [Jeremiah 1:6-9](/jeremiah/1-6-9 "Jeremiah's Call and God's Assurance")
* [Luke 24:36-43](/luke/24-36-43 "Jesus Appears to His Disciples")
* [Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Faith is Essential to Please God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Moses' initial reluctance and the specific doubt he expresses in [Exodus 4:1](/exodus/4-1 "Moses' Hesitation") are remarkably relatable for believers today. When called to a significant task, especially one that seems beyond our capabilities or involves convincing others of a spiritual truth, we often anticipate skepticism, resistance, or outright rejection. This verse reminds us that God understands our fears and insecurities. Just as He patiently equipped Moses with undeniable signs to overcome the Israelites' potential disbelief, God empowers believers today to fulfill His purposes. Our focus should be on trusting God's commission and relying on His power to make His truth known, rather than being paralyzed by the fear of others' reactions or our own perceived inadequacies. God's call comes with His provision and validation; our role is to step forward in faith, knowing He will confirm His word. What seems impossible to us is entirely within God's power to accomplish through us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry do you anticipate skepticism or disbelief from others, similar to Moses' fear?**
* **How does Moses' doubt, despite his direct encounter with God, challenge or affirm your own understanding of faith?**
* **How does God's patient response to Moses' fear encourage you when you feel inadequate or doubtful about a divine calling?**

### FAQ
**Why does Moses anticipate the Israelites' disbelief even after his encounter with God?**

Answer: Moses anticipates disbelief because he understands the deep skepticism that centuries of slavery, oppression, and unfulfilled promises might have instilled in the Israelites. They had long suffered and might have lost hope in God's active involvement in their lives. Moses, having just experienced a supernatural encounter at the burning bush ([Exodus 3](/exodus/3 "The Burning Bush")), recognizes the profound difficulty of conveying such a unique spiritual experience convincingly to others without tangible proof. His concern is practical: how can he establish divine authority and credibility in the eyes of a people who have every reason to be cynical and weary of false hope? He knows his message, though from God, will be judged by its perceived authenticity and power to deliver.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Moses' doubt and God's subsequent provision of validating signs in [Exodus 4:1](/exodus/4-1 "Moses' Hesitation") powerfully foreshadow the greater deliverer, Jesus Christ. Moses, despite being God's chosen prophet, was a man of human weakness and doubt, requiring divine authentication for his message to be believed and obeyed. He needed signs (like the staff turning into a serpent, [Exodus 4:2-3](/exodus/4-2-3 "The Staff Becomes a Serpent")) to prove that "the LORD hath appeared unto thee." Christ, however, is the ultimate Prophet and Deliverer, whose authority is inherent and perfectly divine. While Moses needed external signs to validate his commission, Christ's life, teachings, miracles ([John 2:11](/john/2-11 "Jesus' First Sign at Cana")), and ultimately His resurrection ([Romans 1:4](/romans/1-4 "Jesus Declared Son of God by Resurrection")) were the ultimate, undeniable signs of His identity as God incarnate and the promised Messiah. The Israelites' anticipated need to "believe" and "hearken" to Moses points to humanity's ultimate need to believe in and obey the voice of Christ ([John 10:27](/john/10-27 "My Sheep Hear My Voice")), who perfectly embodies the Lord's appearance and brings true liberation from sin and death ([John 8:36](/john/8-36 "The Son Sets You Free")). He is the one to whom all the prophets bore witness ([Acts 10:43](/acts/10-43 "All the Prophets Testify of Him")), and in Him, the ultimate "appearance" of God to humanity is fully realized ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 3:18

And they shall hearken to thy voice: and thou shalt come, thou and the elders of Israel, unto the king of Egypt, and ye shall say unto him, The LORD God of the Hebrews hath met with us: and now let us go, we beseech thee, three days' journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the LORD our God.

Jeremiah 1:6

Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I [am] a child.

Exodus 2:14

And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known.

Acts 7:25

For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.

Ezekiel 3:14

So the spirit lifted me up, and took me away, and I went in bitterness, in the heat of my spirit; but the hand of the LORD was strong upon me.

Exodus 4:31

And the people believed: and when they heard that the LORD had visited the children of Israel, and that he had looked upon their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshipped.

Exodus 6:30

And Moses said before the LORD, Behold, I [am] of uncircumcised lips, and how shall Pharaoh hearken unto me?