In this passage, Moses and Aaron go to Pharaoh with God’s demand: “Let my people go”. In response, Pharaoh takes away the straw they use to make his bricks, making the daily labor of God's people even more cumbersome. Pharaoh also refuses to let God’s people worship their God and demands that they work for him instead. The Israelites blame Moses and Aaron for their added hardships, while Moses in turn accuses the Lord of failing to deliver his people as promised. Everyone seems to be wondering, will God deliver as he promised? In this dialogue, God takes the opportunity to remind his people of his commitment to rescue them.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
THINKING: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
In chapter 5, Moses and Aaron faithfully obey God’s word and ask Pharaoh to release the people (vv. 1–3). This results in Pharaoh further oppressing the people (vv. 4–19) and the people condemning Moses and Aaron (vv. 20–21). What does this show us about the potential results of “faithful obedience” to God in a sinful world?
In the ancient world there were “kings” or “suzerains” who ruled, and there were “servants” or “vassals” who were their subjects. A servant could be loyal to only one king. Read Exodus 5:15–16. How do the Israelite foremen view themselves at this point in the story?
FEELING: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
After Moses complains to God about Israel’s worsening circumstances (5:22–23), God initially responds not by alleviating their difficulty but by recalling his covenant and reiterating his promises (6:1–8). What do you think God was teaching Israel by doing this?
When you obey God and things get harder, not better, how do you tend to react? What does this suggest about your affections?
DOING: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
What troubles are you facing? Will you see them as problems or as a possible way to learn to rely more on God?
God has promised us lots of great things, just as He promised the Israelites great things. However, they were broken by slavery and oppression. What things can “break” you so that you find it hard to believe the promises of God?
Some Questions Adapted from Exodus for You by Tim Chester and Exploring The Bible: Exodus
