How does Exodus 1:15 illustrate the value of life in God's eyes? Setting the Scene • Exodus opens with Israel multiplying in Egypt while a new Pharaoh grows fearful (Exodus 1:8–14). • Verse 15 introduces two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, whom Pharaoh enlists to curb Israel’s growth. • In a book that rarely records personal names outside the main characters, these women are singled out—an early signal of God’s regard for every human life. Text Spotlight “Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, one of whom was named Shiphrah and the other Puah.” (Exodus 1:15) God’s Emphasis on Individuals • The Holy Spirit preserves the names of the midwives, yet leaves Pharaoh unnamed—highlighting where heaven’s honor is placed. • By recording their identities, Scripture affirms that ordinary people who defend life matter profoundly to God. • Naming conveys worth; God “calls His own sheep by name” (John 10:3). Shiphrah and Puah receive that same dignity. Implicit Rejection of Pharaoh’s Anti-Life Agenda • Pharaoh’s scheme targets newborn Hebrew boys (v. 16), assaulting the image of God at its most vulnerable stage (Genesis 1:27). • The narrative’s focus on the midwives—rather than the king—subtly rebukes any power that treats life as expendable. • By featuring these women, the verse foreshadows their courageous refusal to participate in infanticide (vv. 17–20). Fear of God vs. Fear of Man • Shiphrah and Puah will “fear God” (v. 17), valuing His command “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13) over royal decrees. • Scripture consistently honors those who choose divine authority when human orders violate life (Acts 5:29). Themes Echoed Elsewhere in Scripture • Psalm 139:13–16—God’s intimate involvement in the womb. • Jeremiah 1:5—Divine calling before birth. • Matthew 19:14—Jesus’ welcome of children, affirming their worth. • Proverbs 8:36—“He who fails to find Me harms himself; all who hate Me love death.” God equates opposition to Him with disregard for life. Takeaway Truths • God values each life so highly that He records the names of two obscure women who protected babies. • Exodus 1:15 sets the stage for a narrative where God blesses life-preservers and frustrates life-destroyers (Exodus 1:20–21). • The verse invites believers today to honor life at every stage, confident that the Lord still notices—and names—those who defend His priceless creation. |
    |