How does Exodus 1:18 connect to God's faithfulness in Genesis 12:2-3? Setting the Scene in Exodus 1:18 “ So the king of Egypt summoned the midwives and asked them, ‘Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?’ ” (Exodus 1:18) • Pharaoh has ordered every newborn Hebrew son to be killed (Exodus 1:16). • Shiphrah and Puah, fearing God rather than the king, quietly spare the infants (Exodus 1:17). • Exodus 1:18 captures the moment Pharaoh confronts them, puzzled that his genocide policy is failing. Remembering the Promise of Genesis 12:2–3 “ I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:2–3) • God pledges numerical growth (“a great nation”), protection, and worldwide blessing through Abraham’s offspring. • The promise is unconditional, resting on God’s character rather than human strength (cf. Genesis 15:5; 22:16-18). Linking the Two Passages • Pharaoh’s plan directly attacks the “great nation” promise by targeting male heirs. • God counters every hostile decree, preserving life through courageous midwives. • The very question, “Why have you let the boys live?” highlights that Israel’s survival is inexplicable apart from divine intervention. • Exodus 1:20-21 records God’s response: “So God was good to the midwives, and the people multiplied and became even more numerous.” The covenant promise marches on. Seeing God’s Faithfulness at Work 1. God turns human opposition into platforms for His fidelity. Every attempt to shrink Israel only accelerates its growth (Exodus 1:12). 2. The midwives’ obedience is rewarded, but the driving force is God’s unbreakable word (Psalm 105:8-10). 3. By preserving male infants, God safeguards the genealogical line that will ultimately bring forth the Messiah—fulfilling the “bless all families” clause (Galatians 3:16). 4. Exodus 1 sets the stage for the Exodus itself, where God’s promise-expanding faithfulness becomes unmistakable (Exodus 6:6-8). Key Takeaways • Exodus 1:18 showcases a crisis moment; Genesis 12:2-3 guarantees the outcome. • God’s covenant promises are stronger than any earthly power. • The life-preserving acts of two humble midwives become evidence that the God who speaks in Genesis keeps working in Exodus—and still keeps His word today. |
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