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Commentary on Exodus 4 verses 24–31
Moses is here going to Egypt, and we are told,
I. How God met him in anger, Exo 4:24-26. This is a very difficult passage of story; much has been written, and excellently written, to make it intelligible; we will try to make it improving. Here is,
1.The sin of Moses, which was neglecting to circumcise his son. This was probably the effect of his being unequally yoked with a Midianite, who was too indulgent of her child, while Moses was too indulgent of her. Note, (1.) We have need to watch carefully over our own hearts, lest fondness for any relation prevail above our love to God, and take us off from our duty to him. It is charged upon Eli that he honoured his sons more than God (Sa1 2:29); and see Mat 10:37. (2.) Even good men are apt to cool in their zeal for God and duty when they have long been deprived of the society of the faithful: solitude has its advantages, but they seldom counterbalance the loss of Christian communion.
2.God's displeasure against him. He met him, and, probably by a sword in an angel's hand, sought to kill him. This was a great change; very lately God was conversing with him, and lodging a trust in him, as a friend; and now he is coming forth against him as an enemy. Note, (1.) Omissions are sins, and must come into judgment, and particularly the contempt and neglect of the seals of the covenant; for it is a sign that we undervalue the promises of the covenant, and are displeased with the conditions of it. He that has made a bargain, and is not willing to seal and ratify it, one may justly suspect, neither likes it nor designs to stand to it. (2.) God takes notice of, and is much displeased with, the sins of his own people. If they neglect their duty, let them expect to hear of it by their consciences, and perhaps to feel from it by cross providences: for this cause many are sick and weak, as some think Moses was here.
3.The speedy performance of the duty for the neglect of which God had now a controversy with him. His son must be circumcised; Moses is unable to circumcise him; therefore, in this case of necessity, Zipporah does it, whether with passionate words (expressing her dislike of the ordinance itself, or at least the administration of it to so young a child, and in a journey), as to me it seems, or with proper words - solemnly expressing the espousal of the child to God by the covenant of circumcision (as some read it) or her thankfulness to God for sparing her husband, giving him a new life, and thereby giving her, as it were, a new marriage to him, upon her circumcising her son (as others read it) - I cannot determine: but we learn, (1.) That when God discovers to us what is amiss in our lives we must give all diligence to amend it speedily, and particularly return to the duties we have neglected. (2.) The putting away of our sins is indispensably necessary to the removal of God's judgements. This is the voice of every rod, it calls to us to return to him that smites us.
4.The release of Moses thereupon: So he let him go; the distemper went off, the destroying angel withdrew, and all was well: only Zipporah cannot forget the fright she was in, but will unreasonably call Moses a bloody husband, because he obliged her to circumcise the child; and, upon this occasion (it is probable), he sent them back to his father-in-law, that they might not create him any further uneasiness. Note, (1.) When we return to God in a way of duty he will return to us in a way of mercy; take away the cause, and the effect will cease. (2.) We must resolve to bear it patiently, if our zeal for God and his institutions be misinterpreted and discouraged by some that should understand themselves, and us, and their duty, better, as David's zeal was misinterpreted by Michal; but if this be to be vile, if this be to be bloody, we must be yet more so. (3.) When we have any special service to do for God we should remove as far from us as we can that which is likely to be our hindrance. Let the dead bury their dead, but follow thou me.
II. How Aaron met him in love, Exo 4:27, Exo 4:28. 1. God sent Aaron to meet him, and directed him where to find him, in the wilderness that lay towards Midian. Note, The providence of God is to be acknowledged in the comfortable meeting of relations and friends. 2. Aaron made so much haste, in obedience to his God, and in love to his brother, that he met him in the mount of God, the place where God had met with him. 3. They embraced one another with mutual endearments. The more they saw of God's immediate direction in bringing them together the more pleasant their interview was: they kissed, not only in token of brotherly affection, and in remembrance of ancient acquaintance, but as a pledge of their hearty concurrence in the work to which they were jointly called. 4. Moses informed his brother of the commission he had received, with all the instructions and credentials affixed to it, Exo 4:28. Note, What we know of God we should communicate for the benefit of others; and those that are fellow-servants to God in the same work should use a mutual freedom, and endeavour rightly and fully to understand one another.
III. How the elders of Israel met him in faith and obedience. When Moses and Aaron first opened their commission in Egypt, said what they were ordered to say, and, to confirm it, did what they were ordered to do, they met with a better reception than they promised themselves, Exo 4:29-31. 1. The Israelites gave credit to them: The people believed, as God had foretold (Exo 3:18), knowing that no man could do those works that they did, unless God were with him. They gave glory to God: They bowed their heads and worshipped, therein expressing not only their humble thankfulness to God, who had raised them up and sent them a deliverer, but also their cheerful readiness to observe orders, and pursue the methods of their deliverance.
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SUMMARY
Exodus 4:27 narrates the divinely orchestrated reunion of Moses and his elder brother Aaron in the desolate wilderness, specifically at the sacred "mount of God." This pivotal encounter, marked by a warm fraternal kiss, signifies the commencement of their collaborative leadership and partnership, a crucial step in God's unfolding plan to liberate the Israelites from Egyptian bondage and prepare them for their monumental mission as God's appointed agents.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 4:27 concisely narrates a moment of profound significance in the unfolding drama of the Exodus, showcasing divine initiative and human obedience.
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The narrative in Exodus 4:27 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. Divine Command is central, as the verse opens with "the LORD said to Aaron," immediately establishing God's sovereign initiative and control over the unfolding events. This highlights the Theophany (divine appearance/revelation) that precedes and undergirds the entire Exodus narrative, emphasizing that the human agents are merely instruments of a greater divine purpose. The phrase "mount of God" serves as Symbolism, representing not just a physical location but a sacred space of divine presence, revelation, and covenant. The Action of Aaron going and meeting Moses, followed by the Gesture of kissing, provides a concise yet powerful depiction of obedience, reunion, and the formation of a unified leadership. This scene also functions as Foreshadowing, setting the stage for the collaborative leadership that will be essential for the liberation of Israel and the establishment of the covenant at this very mountain.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 4:27 powerfully illustrates God's meticulous providence and His active involvement in orchestrating the lives and ministries of His chosen servants. It underscores that divine assignments are often fulfilled through collaborative efforts, where God sovereignly brings individuals together at precise moments and locations to accomplish His purposes. The immediate unity and fraternal affection displayed between Moses and Aaron highlight the importance of harmonious relationships and mutual support in leadership, especially when facing daunting challenges. God, in His wisdom, provides the necessary partners and equips His called, ensuring that His plans are brought to fruition through complementary gifts and unified obedience.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 4:27 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. Firstly, it reminds us that God is intimately involved in the details of our lives, often orchestrating divine appointments and bringing specific individuals into our paths to aid us in our callings. We are rarely called to serve in isolation; God frequently provides partners who complement our strengths and weaknesses, fostering a spirit of collaboration rather than competition. Secondly, the immediate unity and affectionate reunion between Moses and Aaron underscore the profound value of harmonious relationships, particularly within the Body of Christ and in leadership. When God's people work together in unity, aligned with His purposes, His blessings flow more abundantly, and His work is advanced more effectively. Finally, Aaron's swift obedience to God's command serves as a powerful example: responding promptly and faithfully to divine directives often positions us for significant moments in God's unfolding plan, leading us to places and encounters we might not anticipate but are crucial for our spiritual journey and service to His Kingdom.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did God command Aaron to meet Moses specifically in the wilderness at the "mount of God"?
Answer: God commanded Aaron to meet Moses in the wilderness at the "mount of God" (Mount Horeb/Sinai) for several strategic and symbolic reasons. This was the sacred site where God had revealed Himself to Moses in the burning bush and commissioned him (Exodus 3:1). Bringing Aaron to this holy ground underscored the divine origin and sacred nature of their joint mission. It served as a place of preparation, consecration, and alignment with God's will before they confronted Pharaoh. The wilderness also represented a place of divine encounter and testing, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
What is the significance of the "kiss" between Moses and Aaron?
Answer: The kiss (Hebrew: nâshaq) between Moses and Aaron was a culturally significant gesture in the ancient Near East, signifying deep affection, respect, and reconciliation or the sealing of a bond. In this context, it confirms the genuine fraternal love and mutual acceptance between the brothers, despite Moses's initial reluctance to lead and Aaron's sudden appointment as his spokesman. It symbolizes the immediate unity and harmony essential for their formidable joint leadership, assuring that they would work together without internal strife as they embarked on the monumental task of delivering Israel.
Does this verse suggest that Moses and Aaron were already aware of God's plan for the Exodus?
Answer: The verse itself does not explicitly state their full awareness of the entire Exodus plan. However, it strongly implies that Aaron was aware enough of God's command to Moses to travel to meet him. Moses had just received his comprehensive commission at the burning bush (Exodus 3:7-10), and the LORD had informed him that Aaron would meet him and speak on his behalf (Exodus 4:14-16). Aaron's immediate obedience suggests he had received a direct divine instruction, likely including the purpose of their meeting, even if the full scope and challenges of the Exodus were yet to unfold for them.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Exodus 4:27 directly concerns the beginning of Israel's liberation from physical bondage, it subtly foreshadows Christ's ultimate work of spiritual redemption. Just as God sovereignly appointed and united Moses and Aaron for the deliverance of His people, God the Father sovereignly appointed and sent His Son, Jesus Christ, as the ultimate Deliverer from the slavery of sin and death (John 3:16-17). Christ, as the greater Moses, leads His people out of spiritual bondage into true freedom and life in the promised land of God's Kingdom (Hebrews 3:1-6). He not only fulfills the prophetic and priestly roles hinted at in the Old Testament figures but also perfectly embodies the divine unity and purpose. Furthermore, Christ calls and equips His followers, uniting them in His Body, the Church, to participate in His ongoing mission of reconciliation and evangelism, demonstrating a perfect unity and divine orchestration that far surpasses that of Moses and Aaron (Ephesians 4:11-13). He is the one who perfectly fulfills God's plan for salvation, ensuring that all who believe are brought into relationship with God.