Exodus 4:5

KJV

That they may believe that the LORD God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

That they may believe {H539} that the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of their fathers {H1}, the God {H430} of Abraham {H85}, the God {H430} of Isaac {H3327}, and the God {H430} of Jacob {H3290}, hath appeared {H7200} unto thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

"This is so that they will believe that ADONAI, the God of their fathers, the God of Avraham, the God of Yitz'chak and the God of Ya'akov, has appeared to you!"

Berean Standard Bible

“This is so that they may believe that the LORD, the God of their fathers—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob—has appeared to you.”

American Standard Version

that they may believe that Jehovah, the God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 4:5 articulates God's explicit purpose behind the miraculous signs He bestows upon Moses: to cultivate belief among the Israelites that the LORD God of their revered ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—has indeed appeared directly to Moses. This declaration underscores the divine intention for these wonders, serving as irrefutable, tangible evidence designed to overcome any skepticism and firmly establish the authenticity of Moses' divine commission and the imminent deliverance from Egyptian bondage.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal statement of divine purpose, immediately following God's instruction to Moses regarding the first two miraculous signs: the rod transforming into a serpent (detailed in [Exodus 4:2-4](/exodus/4-2-4 "The Sign of the Rod and Serpent")) and Moses' hand becoming leprous (described in [Exodus 4:6-7](/exodus/4-6-7 "The Sign of the Leprous Hand")). Moses had initially voiced profound doubt, questioning God in [Exodus 4:1](/exodus/4-1 "Moses' Doubt and God's Response") with, "But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice." Verse 5 directly addresses this very concern, providing the divine rationale for the forthcoming demonstrations of power. It links seamlessly to God's initial self-revelation to Moses at the burning bush, where He identified Himself precisely as "the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob" in [Exodus 3:6](/exodus/3-6 "God Identifies Himself to Moses"). This sequence highlights God's strategic response to Moses' apprehension, equipping him with undeniable proof for the skeptical Israelites.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites had endured centuries of brutal slavery in Egypt, a period marked by profound suffering and likely a fading memory of God's direct intervention or covenant promises. Their faith, if not entirely extinguished, was certainly dormant or severely tested. In this polytheistic environment, where numerous Egyptian deities were worshipped and Pharaoh himself was considered divine, a mere verbal claim of a new God appearing would carry little weight. Miraculous signs, therefore, were not just persuasive but culturally necessary. They served as a divine challenge to the power of Egypt's gods and Pharaoh, demonstrating the supremacy of the God of Israel. The invocation of "the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob" was a critical cultural anchor, connecting the current generation to their revered patriarchal heritage and the foundational covenant promises, reminding them of their unique identity and God's historical faithfulness to their lineage.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 4:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. It powerfully reinforces the theme of **Divine Revelation and Authentication**, demonstrating that God actively reveals Himself and validates His chosen messengers through demonstrable acts of power, ensuring His people recognize His hand and authority. Furthermore, the repeated mention of the patriarchs underscores the theme of **Covenant Continuity and Faithfulness**, emphasizing God's unwavering commitment to the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, even after centuries of silence and bondage, as seen in the broader narrative of [Exodus 2:24](/exodus/2-24 "God Remembers His Covenant"). Crucially, the verse highlights **Faith as a Prerequisite for Deliverance**, making it clear that the purpose of these signs is "that they may believe," thereby establishing belief in God's power and presence as a necessary foundation for experiencing His salvation and deliverance from oppression, a theme echoed in the call to trust God throughout the wilderness journey (e.g., [Exodus 14:31](/exodus/14-31 "Israel Believes the LORD")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 4:5 serves as a profound statement of divine intentionality, revealing that God's miraculous interventions are not arbitrary displays of power but purposeful acts designed to elicit a specific response: belief. The verse clarifies that the signs given to Moses are instruments for cultivating faith, which is foundational for the Israelites' obedience and their ultimate deliverance from Egypt.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **believe (Hebrew, _ʼâman'_):** (H539) This primitive root means "to build up or support," and figuratively, "to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanent or quiet." In this context, it signifies a deep, abiding trust and conviction in the truth of God's revelation and Moses' commission. It's not merely intellectual assent but a firm reliance on God's word and power, leading to steadfastness and obedience. This belief is the foundation upon which the entire Exodus narrative will unfold.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** (H3068) Derived from the verb "to be," this is God's personal, covenant name, often rendered "Jehovah" or, as in KJV, "LORD" (in all caps). It signifies "the Self-Existent One" or "the Eternal." This name, revealed more fully in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "God Reveals His Name \"I AM THAT I AM\""), emphasizes God's unchanging, active presence and His unique relationship with His covenant people. Its use here reiterates that the God who appeared to Moses is the same sovereign, covenant-keeping God of their ancestors.
* **appeared (Hebrew, _râʼâh'_):** (H7200) This primitive root means "to see," but in numerous applications, it signifies more than mere visual perception. It implies a clear, undeniable manifestation, a making known, or a revelation. When God "appears," it's a purposeful, often visible or tangible, self-disclosure designed to convey a message or establish a truth. Here, it confirms a direct, personal, and undeniable encounter between God and Moses, lending immense weight to Moses' authority and the message he is to deliver.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That they may believe":** This initial clause clearly states the divine objective and purpose behind the miraculous signs God is about to empower Moses to perform. It emphasizes that the signs are not ends in themselves, but means to an end: the cultivation of faith and trust in the hearts of the Israelites. God desires a response of belief from His people.
* **"that the LORD God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob":** This lengthy identification is crucial. It precisely names the God who is acting, linking Him directly to the historical covenant established with the patriarchs. The repetition of "the God of" for each patriarch powerfully reinforces the continuity of God's covenant faithfulness across generations. It reminds the Israelites that the God who is now intervening is not a new, unfamiliar deity, but the very same faithful, covenant-keeping God who made promises to their revered ancestors.
* **"hath appeared unto thee":** This final clause provides the specific content of the belief God seeks to instill. The Israelites are to believe that this great, covenant-keeping God has directly and personally manifested Himself to Moses. This direct appearance validates Moses' commission, transforming him from a hesitant shepherd into God's divinely appointed messenger, endowed with undeniable authority to lead His people.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful literary devices. **Repetition** is prominent in the phrase "the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." This anaphoric repetition serves to emphasize the continuity of God's covenant relationship with Israel through their patriarchal lineage, reinforcing His unchanging faithfulness. The entire verse functions as a **Purpose Clause**, explicitly stating the divine intention ("That they may believe") for the actions God is taking, which is a common rhetorical strategy in biblical narrative to clarify divine motivation. Furthermore, the concept of God "appearing" to Moses serves as a form of **Divine Authentication**, where God provides tangible, undeniable evidence of His presence and endorsement of His chosen servant, thereby establishing Moses' credibility before a skeptical audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 4:5 profoundly illustrates God's active engagement in human history, revealing Himself not as a distant, abstract deity, but as a personal, covenant-keeping God who intervenes directly for His people. It highlights that divine revelation often comes with authentication, providing sufficient evidence for belief. The specific invocation of the patriarchal names underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant promises, demonstrating His faithfulness across generations despite human failings or periods of apparent divine silence. This verse sets the stage for the entire Exodus narrative, establishing that the foundation for experiencing God's deliverance is a responsive faith, cultivated by His self-disclosure and miraculous power.

* [Exodus 3:6](/exodus/3-6 "God Identifies Himself to Moses at the Burning Bush")
* [John 20:30-31](/john/20-30-31 "The Purpose of John's Gospel and Jesus' Signs")
* [Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Faith is Essential to Please God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 4:5 offers a powerful reminder that God desires His people to believe and trust in Him. Just as the Israelites needed tangible proof that the God of their fathers was actively involved in their deliverance through Moses, we too are called to cultivate a deep-seated faith in the God who has revealed Himself comprehensively through Scripture, supremely in the person of Jesus Christ, and continually through the work of His Holy Spirit. While God's mode of operation may differ today, His character and faithfulness remain constant. This verse challenges us to consider the foundations of our own belief: Is our faith rooted in the historical truth of God's actions, His unchanging promises, and His demonstrable presence in our lives and in the world? It encourages us to acknowledge God's hand at work, even when His methods are not as overtly miraculous as with Moses. Our belief, like that sought from the Israelites, is not a passive intellectual assent but an active trust that leads to obedience and participation in God's redemptive purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for me to "believe" in the LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in a personal and transformative way today?**
* **How do I see God's faithfulness to His promises manifest in my life or in the broader narrative of salvation history?**
* **In what ways does God provide "evidence" or "appear" to me today, fostering my faith and assuring me of His presence?**
* **How does the purpose of the signs in Exodus 4:5 inform my understanding of God's desire for my faith?**

### FAQ
**Why did God give Moses miraculous signs?**

Answer: God gave Moses miraculous signs, such as the rod turning into a serpent and his hand becoming leprous, primarily "that they may believe" ([Exodus 4:5](/exodus/4-5 "Exodus 4:5 KJV")). These signs served multiple critical purposes: to authenticate Moses' divine commission, to demonstrate God's unparalleled power over natural forces and even human affliction, and to overcome the anticipated skepticism and unbelief of the Israelites and Pharaoh. They were tangible proofs confirming that the LORD God of their ancestors had indeed appeared to Moses and was actively intervening for their deliverance.

**What is the significance of God being called "the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob"?**

Answer: This recurring title is profoundly significant. It emphasizes God's unchanging faithfulness to His covenant promises made to the patriarchs (e.g., [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "The Abrahamic Covenant")). By identifying Himself in this way, God reminds the enslaved Israelites that the God who is acting now is the same God who established a covenant with their forefathers, promising them land, a multitude of descendants, and a unique relationship. It underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan across generations and His unwavering commitment to His historical promises, even after centuries of silence and severe oppression in Egypt. Jesus Himself uses this title to affirm the resurrection in [Matthew 22:32](/matthew/22-32 "Jesus References the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob").

**What does "LORD God" signify in this verse?**

Answer: In the King James Version, "LORD God" (often capitalized as "LORD") typically translates the Hebrew combination *YHWH Elohim*. *YHWH* (H3068), often rendered "Jehovah," is God's personal, covenant name, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature ("I AM THAT I AM" in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "God Reveals His Name \"I AM THAT I AM\"")). *Elohim* (H430) is the more general Hebrew word for God, often used to denote His power and sovereignty as Creator. The combination emphasizes that the personal, covenant-keeping God who is intimately involved with His people is also the sovereign Creator and ruler of all, possessing ultimate authority and power to fulfill His promises.

**Does God still perform miraculous signs today to foster belief?**

Answer: While God's character and power remain unchanged, the nature and frequency of overt, public miraculous signs for authentication purposes, as seen with Moses, are generally understood to be unique to specific periods of biblical history, particularly when new revelation or a new phase of salvation history was being inaugurated. Today, God primarily fosters belief through His revealed Word (Scripture), the compelling testimony of Jesus Christ, and the convicting and transforming work of the Holy Spirit in hearts (e.g., [John 16:8](/john/16-8 "The Holy Spirit Convicts the World")). While God can and does still intervene miraculously, belief is primarily cultivated through the faithful proclamation of the gospel, the transformed lives of believers, and answers to prayer, rather than widespread public wonders of the same type seen in Exodus.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 4:5, with its emphasis on God appearing to Moses to establish belief, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. While God appeared to Moses through signs and wonders, and spoke through prophets, Christ is the very embodiment and most complete revelation of God Himself. As [John 1:18](/john/1-18 "The Word Made Flesh") declares, "No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him." Jesus is the visible manifestation of the invisible God ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Christ, the Image of the Invisible God")), the one through whom God has spoken His final word ([Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "God's Final Revelation in His Son")). He is the "God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob" made flesh, providing the ultimate and undeniable evidence for humanity to believe. His miraculous life, atoning death, and triumphant resurrection serve as the definitive signs that confirm God's covenant faithfulness and His redemptive purpose for all who believe, fulfilling the very purpose of divine appearance—to bring about saving faith.

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 19:9

¶ And the LORD said unto Moses, Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee for ever. And Moses told the words of the people unto the LORD.

Genesis 18:1

¶ And the LORD appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;

Genesis 48:3

And Jacob said unto Joseph, God Almighty appeared unto me at Luz in the land of Canaan, and blessed me,

Exodus 3:15

And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this [is] my name for ever, and this [is] my memorial unto all generations.

Genesis 26:2

And the LORD appeared unto him, and said, Go not down into Egypt; dwell in the land which I shall tell thee of:

Genesis 12:7

And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.

John 11:42

And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said [it], that they may believe that thou hast sent me.