What lessons from Exodus 1:15 apply to modern issues of life and justice? Setting in Exodus 1:15 “Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, one of whom was named Shiphrah and the other Puah,” (Exodus 1:15) Pharaoh’s words launch a state-sponsored plan to destroy Hebrew baby boys. The verse introduces the crisis, underscores the value of each threatened life, and sets the stage for the midwives’ faithful response. The Sanctity of Life • God’s image is stamped on every person (Genesis 1:27). • Taking innocent life is condemned (Exodus 20:13). • The unborn are known and valued by God (Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:5). Modern implication: Any policy or practice that targets the defenseless—whether abortion, infanticide, euthanasia, or selective genocide—stands against God’s revealed regard for life. Obedience to God Over Man • Civil authorities exist by God’s design (Romans 13:1-4), yet no human order outranks divine command (Acts 5:29). • The midwives will soon “fear God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them” (Exodus 1:17). Modern implication: When laws or cultural pressures demand participation in injustice, believers must respectfully refuse, even at personal cost. Courageous Advocacy for the Vulnerable • Shiphrah and Puah protect infants they have never met—risking royal wrath. • Scripture repeatedly calls God’s people to defend the weak (Proverbs 24:11-12; Isaiah 1:17). Modern implication: From trafficking victims to the unborn and elderly, faithful followers step in where society has deemed lives expendable. Justice Through Righteous Resistance • True justice aligns with God’s moral character (Micah 6:8). • The midwives’ resistance exposes Pharaoh’s cruelty and preserves Israel’s future deliverer, Moses. Modern implication: Responsible, peaceful resistance—legal advocacy, crisis-pregnancy care, adoption, policy reform—can restrain evil and uphold justice. Practical Takeaways Today • Value every human life, regardless of stage, ability, ethnicity, or social status. • Examine laws, workplace policies, and cultural trends; refuse compliance when they clash with God’s commands. • Support ministries and initiatives that protect the vulnerable—volunteer, donate, speak up. • Encourage civil leaders who defend life and oppose those who promote harm. • Teach the next generation a consistent ethic of life grounded in Scripture. Exodus 1:15 calls believers to cherish life, stand for justice, and courageously obey God even when powerful voices demand otherwise. |
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