What is the meaning of Exodus 3:13? Then Moses asked God • Moses’ immediate response shows a genuine, respectful dialogue with the living God, not mere inner thoughts (Exodus 3:11; Acts 7:30-32). • Scripture presents this conversation as literal history, reminding us that God invites real questions from His servants (Jeremiah 33:3). • Moses is already on holy ground (Exodus 3:5); his questioning arises in humility, not defiance. Suppose I go to the Israelites • Moses anticipates obedience—he assumes he will go, reflecting faith that follows the Lord’s commission (Exodus 3:10; Hebrews 11:24-27). • Yet he weighs the practical outcome: Will the people listen? (Exodus 4:1). • God’s call is never abstract; it moves us toward specific people and places (Jonah 3:3; Matthew 28:19-20). and say to them, “The God of your fathers has sent me to you,” • Moses anchors his message in covenant history: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 3:6; 3:15; Genesis 12:1-3). • This wording signals continuity—God has not changed, and His promises stand firm (Malachi 3:6; Luke 1:72-73). • By invoking the fathers, Moses underscores God’s faithfulness, preparing Israel for redemption (Hebrews 10:23). and they ask me, “What is His name?” • Ancient people linked a name with revealed character; Israel might seek assurance that Moses truly represents the covenant God (Isaiah 42:8). • Similar moments appear when Manoah asks the Angel of the LORD for His name (Judges 13:17-18) and when Jacob wrestles at Peniel (Genesis 32:29). • Such a question stems from longing to know God personally, not merely by reputation (Psalm 9:10; John 17:26). What should I tell them? • Moses desires precise truth, not personal invention—an example for every messenger of God (1 Peter 4:11). • The next verse supplies the divine answer: “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14), revealing God’s self-existence and eternal constancy (Revelation 1:8). • This sets the foundation for all future revelation, culminating in Jesus’ “I am” declarations (John 8:58). summary Exodus 3:13 captures Moses’ humble but practical concern: how to represent the covenant-keeping, self-revealing God to a doubting people. Each phrase shows that authentic ministry rests on historical faithfulness, personal knowledge of God’s name and character, and a commitment to speak only what the Lord gives. |
    |