What is the meaning of Exodus 10:25? But Moses replied • Pharaoh’s “compromise” (Exodus 10:24) would allow Israel’s people to go but keep the livestock hostage; Moses immediately refuses, showing he will not dilute God’s command (Exodus 5:1). • His reply reveals steadfast obedience. Earlier he had resisted half-measures (Exodus 8:25-27); once again he stands firm, modeling godly leadership that refuses to barter away essentials for convenience (Acts 5:29). You must also provide us • Moses turns Pharaoh’s offer around: Egypt, not Israel, must supply what is needed. This exposes the emptiness of Pharaoh’s control and magnifies God’s supremacy (Exodus 12:35-36; Proverbs 13:22). • The demand underscores Israel’s complete dependence on God, not on their oppressor. True worship never relies on the world’s permission but on the Lord’s provision (Psalm 50:10-12). with sacrifices and burnt offerings • “Sacrifices” address fellowship and thanksgiving (Leviticus 3:1-5); “burnt offerings” symbolize total dedication and atonement (Leviticus 1:3-9). Both are required, signifying holistic worship—heart, soul, and substance. • From Abel’s lamb (Genesis 4:4) to Noah’s post-flood altar (Genesis 8:20), God had always ordained blood sacrifice as the way to approach Him. Moses insists that pattern remain intact. • Refusing to leave their animals behind (Exodus 10:26) affirms that worship costs something tangible (2 Samuel 24:24). to present to the LORD our God • The purpose is clear: every offering is “to the LORD,” not for show, politics, or Pharaoh’s approval (Exodus 3:12). • Calling Him “our God” highlights covenant relationship (Exodus 6:7). Israel belongs exclusively to Him; worship cannot be negotiated away (Deuteronomy 6:13-15). • The phrase stresses immediacy: these sacrifices must be brought soon, in the wilderness as God directed (Exodus 8:27), not delayed until Egypt decides it’s convenient (Hebrews 3:15). summary Exodus 10:25 shows Moses refusing partial obedience and insisting on full, God-ordained worship. He demands that even Pharaoh recognize Israel’s need for sacrifices and burnt offerings, illustrating that worship must be complete, costly, and directed solely to the LORD. Compromise with the world is no substitute for absolute devotion; God’s people must obey His instructions entirely, trusting Him to supply everything required for true worship. |