What role does obedience play in Moses' actions in Exodus 7:15? The Text Itself “Go to Pharaoh in the morning as he goes out to the water, and stand on the bank of the Nile to meet him; take in your hand the staff that was turned into a snake.” (Exodus 7:15) What Obedience Looks Like in This Moment • Immediate response to a clear command • Willingness to confront earthly power (Pharaoh) at God’s timing and place • Dependence on the specific tool God designates—the staff already proven to carry divine authority • Alignment with a larger divine plan (the plagues) rather than a personal agenda Why God Highlights Moses’ Obedience • Obedience validates the messenger. Moses had previously questioned his own credibility (Exodus 3:11), but obedient action now authenticates him. • Obedience verifies the message. God’s word is demonstrated as trustworthy when followed precisely (Exodus 7:17). • Obedience unlocks the miraculous. The staff becomes the instrument through which the Nile turns to blood (Exodus 7:20). Without obedience, the miracle would not occur. • Obedience exposes disobedience. Pharaoh’s stubborn refusal is set in stark contrast to Moses’ compliance (Romans 9:17). Related Passages Reinforcing the Principle • Exodus 7:6 — “Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them.” • 1 Samuel 15:22 — “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • John 14:15 — “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Hebrews 11:27 — Moses “left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible.” Results Flowing from Moses’ Obedience 1. God’s power is displayed over Egypt’s gods (the Nile deified in their worldview). 2. Israel gains fresh confidence in the LORD’s deliverance (Exodus 4:31; 14:31). 3. Pharaoh’s heart is further hardened, progressing God’s redemptive storyline (Exodus 7:13). 4. A pattern is set: each plague begins with a command and an obedient response, underscoring that God’s acts are tied to human compliance. Personal Takeaways for Today • God’s instructions often come with precise details; faithfulness lies in exact obedience, not creative alternatives. • Obedience may place us in uncomfortable confrontations, yet it situates us under God’s protection and purpose. • The same God who used a simple shepherd’s staff can use ordinary resources when surrendered in obedience. |
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