How does Exodus 7:8 demonstrate God's power through Moses and Aaron's obedience? Setting the Scene The narrative has already shown God commissioning Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3) and pairing him with Aaron as spokesman (Exodus 4:14–16). By Exodus 7 they stand before Pharaoh, representing the living God to the most powerful ruler on earth. Verse 8 is the hinge: God’s fresh word that will launch the first public sign in Egypt. Exodus 7:8 “Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron,” Key Observations - “Then” ties the command directly to previous obedience; they have already obeyed by going to Pharaoh (Exodus 5:1). - “The LORD said” underscores divine initiative. Power flows from God’s word, not human ingenuity (Psalm 33:9). - The address is to “Moses and Aaron” together, stressing shared obedience and the authority God delegates through them (Exodus 4:15). Obedience Opens the Door to Power - God speaks, they listen—this simple pattern unleashes supernatural acts (James 1:22). - Their willingness to act on God’s instruction (casting down the staff, vv. 9-10) demonstrates faith that God will validate His word. - Obedience positions them as vessels through which God proves His supremacy over Egypt’s magicians and deities. God’s Supremacy on Display 1. Staff-turned-serpent (vv. 9-12) – Pharaoh’s court sees a tangible sign that the God of Israel controls creation itself (Jeremiah 32:17). 2. Staff-serpent devouring others (v. 12) – A literal, physical picture of YHWH swallowing Egypt’s supposed power. 3. Progression to the plagues (vv. 14-24) – Each subsequent act escalates in scope, all rooted in the same obedient response that began at v. 8. Echoes Throughout Scripture - 1 Samuel 15:22 — “To obey is better than sacrifice.” God values obedience as the conduit of His power. - Joshua 3:13-17 — Priests step into the Jordan before it parts; obedience precedes display of power. - John 14:21 — “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me… I will reveal Myself to him.” Living It Today - Receive the word: stay in Scripture so God’s voice is clear (Psalm 119:105). - Respond immediately: delayed obedience delays the display of God’s power. - Rely on God’s authority, not personal ability: “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassing power is from God and not from us” (2 Corinthians 4:7). Exodus 7:8, though brief, captures the rhythm of the entire Exodus drama: God speaks, His servants obey, and His power becomes visible. |
    |