God Promises Deliverance 1But the LORD said to Moses, “Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh, for because of My mighty hand he will let the people go; because of My strong hand he will drive them out of his land.” 2God also told Moses, “I am the LORD. 3I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as God Almighty,a but by My name the LORD I did not make Myself known to them. 4I also established My covenant with them to give them the land of Canaan, the land where they lived as foreigners. 5Furthermore, I have heard the groaning of the Israelites, whom the Egyptians are enslaving, and I have remembered My covenant. 6Therefore tell the Israelites: ‘I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians and deliver you from their bondage. I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. 7I will take you as My own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God, who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. 8And I will bring you into the land that I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I will give it to you as a possession. I am the LORD!’” 9Moses relayed this message to the Israelites, but on account of their broken spirit and cruel bondage, they did not listen to him. 10So the LORD said to Moses, 11“Go and tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the Israelites go out of his land.” 12But in the LORD’s presence Moses replied, “If the Israelites will not listen to me, then why would Pharaoh listen to me, since I am unskilled in speech?b” 13Then the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron and gave them a charge concerning both the Israelites and Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the Israelites out of the land of Egypt. Genealogies of Moses and Aaron 14These were the heads of their fathers’ houses: The sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel, were Hanoch and Pallu, Hezron and Carmi. These were the clans of Reuben. 15The sons of Simeon were Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar,c and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman. These were the clans of Simeon. 16These were the names of the sons of Levi according to their records: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Levi lived 137 years. 17The sons of Gershon were Libni and Shimei, by their clans. 18The sons of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. Kohath lived 133 years. 19The sons of Merari were Mahli and Mushi. These were the clans of the Levites according to their records. 20And Amram married his father’s sister Jochebed, and she bore him Aaron and Moses. Amram lived 137 years. 21The sons of Izhar were Korah, Nepheg, and Zichri. 22The sons of Uzziel were Mishael, Elzaphan,d and Sithri. 23And Aaron married Elisheba, the daughter of Amminadab and sister of Nahshon, and she bore him Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. 24The sons of Korah were Assir, Elkanah, and Abiasaph.e These were the clans of the Korahites. 25Aaron’s son Eleazar married one of the daughters of Putiel, and she bore him Phinehas. These were the heads of the Levite families by their clans. 26It was this Aaron and Moses to whom the LORD said, “Bring the Israelites out of the land of Egypt by their divisions.” 27Moses and Aaron were the ones who spoke to Pharaoh king of Egypt in order to bring the Israelites out of Egypt. 28Now on the day that the LORD spoke to Moses in Egypt, 29He said to him, “I am the LORD; tell Pharaoh king of Egypt everything I say to you.” 30But in the LORD’s presence Moses replied, “Since I am unskilled in speech, why would Pharaoh listen to me?” Footnotes: 3 a Hebrew El-Shaddai 12 b Hebrew I have uncircumcised lips; also in verse 30 15 c Zohar is a variant of Zerah; see Numbers 26:13 and 1 Chronicles 4:24. 22 d Elzaphan is a variant of Elizaphan; see Numbers 3:30. 24 e Abiasaph is a variant of Ebiasaph; see 1 Chronicles 6:23 and 1 Chronicles 9:19. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 6 Summary God Promises DeliveranceVerses 1–5 – God Reassures Moses Verses 6–8 – Seven “I Will” Promises Verses 9–13 – Deaf Ears and a Renewed Mission Verses 14–25 – Levi’s Family Record Verses 26–27 – Moses and Aaron Spotlighted Verses 28–30 – The Conversation Replayed The chapter unfolds with God reassuring Moses of His divine plan, asserting His identity, and promising deliverance to the Israelites. Despite Moses' self-doubt, the lineage of Israelite leaders fortifies the divine mandate given to Moses and Aaron. Historical Setting: Labor Camps under a Ruling Pharaoh • Egyptian texts from the 19th Dynasty describe vast public-works projects using foreign slave labor—matching the Bible’s picture (Exodus 1:11). • The cities Pithom and Rameses, built with “storehouses,” have partial remains in the eastern Nile Delta. Mud-brick construction lines up with the biblical “straw” complaints (Exodus 5). • Pharaoh likely held absolute authority; refusal to obey him would have seemed suicidal, heightening Moses’ fear. The Divine Name “YHWH”: Newly Emphasized Exodus 6:3: “I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as God Almighty, but by My name YHWH I did not make Myself fully known to them.” • The patriarchs spoke the Name (Genesis 22:14), yet here God presses its meaning—He is the ever-present, promise-keeping LORD who now acts in history. • Later echoes: Isaiah 42:8, “I am YHWH; that is My name.” Revelation 1:8 links the same concept to Jesus, “the Alpha and the Omega.” Seven “I Will” Statements: Blueprint of Rescue 1. Bring out (physical exit) 2. Deliver (freedom from bondage) 3. Redeem (purchase back) 4. Take as My people (relationship) 5. Be your God (identity) 6. Bring to the land (journey) 7. Give it (inheritance) This movement—rescue, relationship, rest—mirrors the larger biblical story, echoed in John 14:3 (“I will come again and receive you to Myself”) and Revelation 21:3 (“They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them”). Genealogy: Why the Family List Matters • Establishes Aaron’s priestly line, confirmed in Numbers 17 and later Ezra 7. • Signals God’s use of ordinary families—complete with future rebels like Korah. • Helps date events: Levi’s grandson Phinehas appears in early wilderness episodes. Archaeological Glimpses of Semitic Names in Egypt • Papyrus Brooklyn (13th century BC) lists slaves with names akin to Hebrew. • A stela from Avaris mentions a Semitic official, supporting a resident Israelite community. • Statues at Tanis show possible Semite administrators, tying in with Joseph’s earlier favor. Literary Structure: Dialogue-Genealogy-Dialogue The chapter sandwiches a dry list between action scenes, stressing that God works through real people in real families, not mythic figures. Connections across Scripture • Covenant language parallels Genesis 15:13-14 and Leviticus 26:12. • Moses’ “uncircumcised lips” foreshadows Isaiah’s “unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5) and Paul’s “weakness in speech” (2 Corinthians 10:10). • The seven “I wills” find an inverse in the seven “I wills” of arrogant Babylon (Isaiah 14:13-14), contrasting God’s saving plan with human pride. Foreshadowing the Gospel • Redemption “with an outstretched arm” (Exodus 6:6) hints at Christ’s arms stretched on the cross. • Jesus reads Exodus themes at the Last Supper: “This is My blood of the covenant” (Mark 14:24). • Hebrews 3:1-6 compares Moses’ faithfulness in God’s house with Jesus’ greater faithfulness. Practical Takeaways • God’s promises stand even when circumstances worsen; He often speaks hope into the darkest moment. • Discouragement can deafen us; yet God still uses faltering voices to deliver His message. • Knowing our spiritual genealogy—how God has moved in past generations—feeds courage for today. Key Passages Quoted Exodus 6:6-7: “Therefore tell the Israelites: ‘I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians… I will take you as My own people, and I will be your God.’” Exodus 6:9: “But they did not listen to Moses, on account of their broken spirit and cruel bondage.” Study Exodus 6 and watch the unbreakable promises of God unfold step by step until the Red Sea parts and freedom becomes reality. Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 15:13-14God’s promise to Abraham about the future deliverance of his descendants, which is fulfilled in Exodus. Psalm 105:8-11 A reminder of God’s covenant and His faithfulness to His promises. Hebrews 10:23 Encouragement to hold fast to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. Teaching Points God’s Assurance of DeliveranceIn Exodus 6:1, God reassures Moses, saying, “Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh. For with a strong hand he will let them go, and with a strong hand he will drive them out of his land.” This highlights God’s sovereignty and His power to fulfill His promises. The Covenant Remembered Verses 2-5 emphasize God’s covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God reminds Moses of His name, Yahweh, and His commitment to His people, underscoring the unchanging nature of His promises. God’s Seven “I Will” Statements In verses 6-8, God makes seven promises to the Israelites, including deliverance, redemption, and the gift of the Promised Land. These statements reflect God’s comprehensive plan for His people’s freedom and future. Moses’ Reluctance and God’s Patience Despite God’s assurances, Moses expresses doubt due to the Israelites’ despondency and his own perceived inadequacies (verses 9-12). God’s response is patient and persistent, demonstrating His understanding of human frailty. Practical Applications Trust in God’s TimingJust as God’s plan for Israel unfolded in His perfect timing, we are called to trust in His timing for our lives, even when we face delays or challenges. Remember God’s Faithfulness Reflect on past instances of God’s faithfulness in your life as a source of encouragement and hope for the future. Embrace God’s Promises Actively claim and stand on the promises of God found in Scripture, allowing them to guide and strengthen you in times of uncertainty. Overcome Doubt with Faith Like Moses, we may have doubts, but we are encouraged to bring them to God, trusting in His patience and provision. People 1. MosesA central figure in the Book of Exodus, Moses is chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. His name in Hebrew, מֹשֶׁה (Moshe), is traditionally understood to mean "drawn out," as he was drawn out of the Nile River. 2. Aaron The brother of Moses, Aaron serves as his spokesperson and later becomes the first high priest of Israel. His name in Hebrew, אַהֲרֹן (Aharon), is of uncertain origin but is a significant figure in the priestly lineage. 3. Amram The father of Moses and Aaron, Amram is a member of the tribe of Levi. His name in Hebrew, עַמְרָם (Amram), means "exalted people." 4. Jochebed The mother of Moses and Aaron, Jochebed is noted for her role in saving Moses as a baby. Her name in Hebrew, יוֹכֶבֶד (Yokheved), means "Yahweh is glory." 5. Korah A Levite and cousin of Moses and Aaron, Korah is later known for leading a rebellion against Moses. His name in Hebrew, קֹרַח (Korach), means "bald" or "ice." 6. Phinehas The grandson of Aaron, Phinehas is known for his zealousness in upholding God's covenant. His name in Hebrew, פִּינְחָס (Pinchas), is thought to mean "mouth of brass" or "oracle." 7. Eleazar The son of Aaron, Eleazar succeeds his father as high priest. His name in Hebrew, אֶלְעָזָר (Elazar), means "God has helped." 8. Ithamar Another son of Aaron, Ithamar serves as a priest alongside his brother Eleazar. His name in Hebrew, אִיתָמָר (Itamar), means "island of palms." 9. Levi The ancestor of the Levites, Levi is one of the twelve sons of Jacob. His name in Hebrew, לֵוִי (Levi), is associated with the Hebrew word לָוָה (lavah), meaning "to join" or "attached." 10. Gershon The firstborn son of Levi, Gershon is the ancestor of the Gershonite clan. His name in Hebrew, גֵּרְשׁוֹן (Gershon), means "a stranger there." 11. Kohath The second son of Levi, Kohath is the ancestor of the Kohathite clan. His name in Hebrew, קְהָת (Kehat), means "assembly." 12. Merari The third son of Levi, Merari is the ancestor of the Merarite clan. His name in Hebrew, מְרָרִי (Merari), means "bitter." 13. Nadab The firstborn son of Aaron, Nadab serves as a priest but is later consumed by fire for offering unauthorized incense. His name in Hebrew, נָדָב (Nadav), means "generous" or "noble." 14. Abihu Another son of Aaron, Abihu also serves as a priest and shares the same fate as his brother Nadab. His name in Hebrew, אֲבִיהוּא (Avihu), means "he is my father." Places Exodus 6 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention many distinct geographical places. However, it does reference Egypt, which is central to the narrative. HereEvents 1. God Reassures MosesThe chapter begins with God speaking to Moses, reassuring him of His power and plan to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. God emphasizes that Pharaoh will let the Israelites go because of God's mighty hand (Exodus 6:1). 2. God Reveals His Name God speaks to Moses, revealing Himself as "the LORD" (YHWH), a name that signifies His eternal and unchanging nature. This is a reaffirmation of His covenant with the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 6:2-3). 3. Covenant Reminder God reminds Moses of the covenant He established with the patriarchs to give them the land of Canaan. This covenant is central to the identity and hope of the Israelites (Exodus 6:4). 4. God Hears the Israelites' Groaning God acknowledges the suffering of the Israelites in Egypt and remembers His covenant. This highlights God's compassion and faithfulness (Exodus 6:5). 5. Promise of Deliverance God instructs Moses to tell the Israelites that He will deliver them from Egyptian bondage, redeem them with an outstretched arm, and take them as His own people. This promise includes bringing them into the promised land (Exodus 6:6-8). 6. Moses' Reluctance Moses reports God's message to the Israelites, but they do not listen due to their discouragement and harsh labor. Moses expresses doubt about speaking to Pharaoh, citing his "uncircumcised lips" (Exodus 6:9-12). 7. God Commands Moses and Aaron Despite Moses' hesitation, God commands Moses and Aaron to bring the Israelites out of Egypt. This command underscores God's authority and the importance of obedience (Exodus 6:13). 8. Genealogy of Moses and Aaron The chapter provides a genealogy of the heads of the families of Reuben, Simeon, and Levi, leading to Moses and Aaron. This genealogy establishes their Levitical lineage and authority (Exodus 6:14-27). 9. Reiteration of God's Command The chapter concludes with God reiterating His command to Moses to speak to Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This repetition emphasizes the certainty of God's plan and the role of Moses and Aaron as His chosen leaders (Exodus 6:28-30). Lessons from Exodus 6 1. God’s Faithfulness is Unwavering 2. God Knows Our Struggles 3. God’s Name is His Assurance 4. Deliverance is Part of God’s Plan 5. God’s Promises are Personal 6. God’s Timing is Perfect 7. God’s Power is Unmatched 8. God’s Covenant is Everlasting 9. God Uses Ordinary People 10. God’s Plan is for His Glory Topics 1. God's Assurance to Moses (Exodus 6:1-5)God reassures Moses of His power and intention to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. He emphasizes His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, highlighting His faithfulness. The Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, ^berit^) underscores the solemn and binding nature of God's promise. 2. God's Promise of Deliverance (Exodus 6:6-8) God instructs Moses to tell the Israelites that He will free them from Egyptian bondage, redeem them with "an outstretched arm" and "mighty acts of judgment." The phrase "outstretched arm" (זְרוֹעַ נְטוּיָה, ^zeroa netuyah^) signifies God's powerful intervention. 3. Moses' Discouragement and Israel's Unbelief (Exodus 6:9) Despite God's promises, the Israelites do not listen to Moses due to their "broken spirit and cruel bondage." The Hebrew term for "broken spirit" (קוֹצֶר רוּחַ, ^qotzer ruach^) reflects their deep despair and discouragement. 4. God's Command to Moses and Aaron (Exodus 6:10-13) God commands Moses and Aaron to speak to Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. Moses expresses doubt due to his "uncircumcised lips," a metaphor for perceived inadequacy in speech. 5. Genealogy of Moses and Aaron (Exodus 6:14-27) The genealogy of Moses and Aaron is provided, establishing their Levitical lineage and authority. This section emphasizes the historical and familial context of their leadership. 6. Renewed Commission to Moses (Exodus 6:28-30) God reiterates His command to Moses to speak to Pharaoh. Moses again voices his concern about his speaking ability, highlighting his reliance on God's empowerment. Themes 1. Divine Assurance and Covenant FaithfulnessIn Exodus 6, God reassures Moses of His covenant with the patriarchs and His commitment to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. The passage emphasizes God's faithfulness to His promises, as seen in verses like Exodus 6:2-4, where God reiterates His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Hebrew word for covenant, "בְּרִית" (berit), underscores the binding and solemn nature of God's promises. 2. God's Sovereignty and Power The theme of God's sovereignty is evident as He declares His intention to act decisively against Pharaoh and Egypt. In Exodus 6:1, God tells Moses, "Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh," highlighting His supreme authority and power to fulfill His purposes. The Hebrew name for God used here, "יְהוָה" (YHWH), signifies His eternal and self-existent nature. 3. Identity and Revelation of God God reveals Himself to Moses with the name "I AM" (YHWH), which is central to understanding His eternal and unchanging nature. In Exodus 6:3, God states, "I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as God Almighty, but by My name the LORD I did not make Myself known to them." This revelation of His name signifies a deeper understanding of His character and relationship with His people. 4. Redemption and Deliverance The promise of redemption is a key theme, as God outlines His plan to deliver the Israelites from slavery. In Exodus 6:6, God says, "I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from their bondage." The Hebrew word for redemption, "גָּאַל" (ga'al), conveys the idea of a kinsman-redeemer who rescues and restores. 5. The Role of Moses as Mediator Moses is portrayed as the chosen mediator between God and the Israelites. Despite his initial reluctance and the people's despondency, Moses is tasked with conveying God's message of hope and deliverance. In Exodus 6:10-13, God commands Moses to speak to Pharaoh, emphasizing his role as God's appointed leader and prophet. 6. Israel's Despondency and Unbelief The Israelites' initial response to Moses' message is one of disbelief and discouragement due to their harsh circumstances. In Exodus 6:9, it is noted that "they did not listen to Moses, because of their broken spirit and harsh labor." This highlights the struggle of faith amidst suffering and the challenge of trusting in God's promises. 7. Generational Continuity and Legacy The genealogy in Exodus 6:14-27 serves to connect the current generation of Israelites with their ancestors, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant promises. It underscores the importance of heritage and the fulfillment of God's plans through successive generations. The listing of tribal leaders also establishes the legitimacy and authority of Moses and Aaron's leadership. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God’s Faithfulness Praise God for His unwavering faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises throughout history. Trust in God’s Plan Overcoming Doubt Guidance and Patience As we study Exodus 6, may we be reminded of God’s unchanging nature and His commitment to His people. Let us hold fast to His promises, trusting that He is working all things for our good and His glory. Answering Tough Questions 1. Exodus 6:2–3: Why does God claim His name wasn’t revealed before this moment, yet the name Yahweh appears earlier in Genesis? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does God's assurance to Moses reveal about His character and His plans for the Israelites? 2. How does the revelation of God's name to Moses enhance your understanding of the relationship between God and His people? 3. Why do you think the Israelites, despite God's promises, did not listen to Moses? 4. How can Moses' self-doubt inform your understanding of the struggles of leadership and prophetic calling? 5. How does the detailed genealogy of the Israelite leaders contribute to the unfolding story of Israel's deliverance? 6. Why was it important for Moses to understand God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? 7. How does Moses' self-doubt reflect his humanness and how can this inform your approach to personal weaknesses? 8. What strategies would you suggest to Moses for overcoming his self-doubt? 9. How does God's patient reassurance to Moses inspire you in your faith journey? 10. How does God's promise of delivering Israelites under harsh bondage relate to present-day struggles for freedom and justice? 11. How does the story of God renewing His promises encourage you in times when God's promises seem distant or unlikely? 12. Why is the promise of the land of Canaan so significant in this context? 13. How can Moses' experience inform your understanding of dealing with disbelief or doubt in your faith community? 14. Why do you think Moses' lineage was necessary in the narrative and what does it tell us about God's plan? 15. What does God's interaction with Moses teach about His compassion towards our insecurities and doubts? 16. How do you deal with self-doubt when you are entrusted with a significant task? 17. What can we learn from Moses' repeated questioning of his own abilities? 18. How can this chapter help you deal with situations when you feel overwhelmed by responsibilities? 19. How does the contrast between God's assurance and Moses' self-doubt inform our understanding of divine-human interaction? 20. In your present-day life, how would you apply the lessons learned from the assurances God gave to Moses in your own times of doubt or difficulty? 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