What is the meaning of Exodus 1:21? And because The opening conjunction links directly to the midwives’ courageous stand in verses 17-20. God is making a clear cause-and-effect statement. • In Scripture, obedience never floats in a vacuum; it always draws a divine response (Deuteronomy 28:1-2; Galatians 6:7-9). • The use of “because” shows that what follows is not random kindness but a reward tied to their prior faithfulness, echoing Genesis 22:16-18 where God blesses Abraham “because you have done this.” • God’s character is revealed as both just and personal—He sees, remembers, and responds (Exodus 2:24; Malachi 3:16-18). the midwives feared God This phrase highlights the motive behind their civil disobedience to Pharaoh’s murderous order. • “Feared” here speaks of reverent awe that leads to concrete action (Proverbs 1:7; Acts 5:29). • Their fear of God outweighed fear of man—an enduring biblical principle seen in Daniel 3 and Hebrews 11:23-27. • God honors those who honor Him (1 Samuel 2:30). In valuing life they aligned with God’s heart, anticipating commands like “You shall not murder” in Exodus 20:13. • Their example shows that true fear of God is practical: it protects the innocent, resists evil, and trusts God with the consequences (Psalm 34:9-10). He gave them families of their own The Lord answers their sacrificial service with personal blessing. • The wording pictures a tangible, home-centered reward—children and households (Psalm 127:3-5; 128:1-4). • Midwives were often childless, making this gift especially meaningful; God turns their perceived lack into fullness (Psalm 113:9). • The blessing is not merely biological; it affirms their place in Israel’s covenant community, much like Ruth being granted a lineage leading to David (Ruth 4:14-17). • This outcome illustrates God’s faithful care for those who risk for righteousness (Matthew 19:29). summary Exodus 1:21 shows a straightforward chain: courageous fear of God → divine favor. By standing for life against a tyrant, the midwives placed themselves under God’s protection, and He repaid their reverence with the intimate blessing of families. The verse assures believers that the Lord notices every act of godly fear and is ready to reward it in His perfect way and time. |
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