What role did Moses and Aaron play in executing God's command in Exodus 7:20? Setting the Scene Exodus 7 describes the first plague. God has just commissioned Moses and Aaron to confront Pharaoh, promising to demonstrate His supremacy over Egypt’s gods (Exodus 7:1-5). The Clear Command Exodus 7:19 records the assignment: “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Tell Aaron, “Take your staff and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt… and they will turn to blood.”’ ”(BSB) Obedience in Action Exodus 7:20 shows how that command was carried out: “Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded; in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, Aaron raised the staff and struck the water of the Nile, and all the water was turned to blood.” Distinct yet Unified Roles • Moses: – Received the instruction directly from God (cf. Exodus 7:1-2). – Served as the leader, ensuring the command was faithfully transmitted to Aaron. – Stood with Aaron before Pharaoh, a visible sign of God’s authority backing the act. • Aaron: – Acted as Moses’ spokesman and designated instrument (Exodus 4:15-17). – Physically lifted the staff and struck the Nile, triggering the plague exactly as God specified. – Demonstrated practical obedience, complementing Moses’ leadership with decisive action. Key Takeaways • Shared obedience: Both men “did just as the LORD had commanded,” underscoring cooperative faithfulness. • Delegated authority: God’s power flowed through Aaron’s hand because he acted under Moses’ direction, illustrating divine order (Numbers 12:6-8). • Visible testimony: Performing the sign “in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials” left Egypt without excuse, fulfilling God’s purpose to display His glory (Exodus 7:5, 17). Lessons for Today • God often pairs leaders (Moses) with action-oriented partners (Aaron) to accomplish His will. • Accuracy matters: They obeyed “just as” God commanded—no edits, no shortcuts. • Public faithfulness can bring confrontation, but it also magnifies God’s power for all to see. |
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