How does Exodus 3:6 reveal God's identity and relationship with the patriarchs? Setting the Scene • Exodus 3 finds Moses before the burning bush—an ordinary shepherd’s day interrupted by God’s extraordinary presence. • Verse 6 acts as God’s formal introduction to Moses, answering the deepest question: “Who is speaking to me?” Exact Words, Eternal Weight “Then He said, ‘I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ At this, Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God.” (Exodus 3:6) What This Declaration Says about God’s Identity • Personal Name, Personal Relationship – “I am” ties directly to the divine name Yahweh revealed moments later (v. 14). – Instead of a distant title, God uses relational language—“the God of…” • Continuity and Consistency – The same God who guided Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob speaks now; He has not changed (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). – This connects Genesis and Exodus as one unbroken narrative rather than separate stories. • Covenant Keeper – Each patriarch received covenant promises (Genesis 17:1-8; 26:2-5; 28:13-15). – God’s self-identification shows He still binds Himself to those promises. What It Reveals about God’s Relationship with the Patriarchs • He is the Initiator – Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob did not discover God; God revealed Himself to them first (Acts 7:2; Genesis 28:13). • He is Present and Active – “God of” implies ongoing involvement, not merely historical association. – Jesus affirms this in Luke 20:37-38, noting that God “is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” • He is Faithful across Generations – Three generations span roughly 200 years, demonstrating long-term commitment. – Moses learns that the same faithfulness will extend to Israel’s future (Exodus 6:2-8). Why Moses Hides His Face • Immediate Recognition of Holiness – Encountering the God of the patriarchs brings a reverent fear (cf. Isaiah 6:5). – Hiding the face is an instinctive response to divine holiness and glory. Implications for Moses’ Mission • Authority to Act – Moses will confront Pharaoh armed with the authority of the covenant-keeping God. – God’s past actions guarantee future deliverance (Exodus 3:12). • Assurance of Success – If God kept promises to the patriarchs, He will surely keep His word to liberate their descendants (Genesis 15:13-14). Key Takeaways for Today • God is personal, faithful, and consistent—yesterday, today, and forever. • The covenants with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob anchor our confidence in every promise God makes. • Reverence before God’s holiness remains the right response, accompanied by trust in His unchanging character. |
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