What is the meaning of Exodus 3:3?

So Moses thought

- Moses pauses to consider what he has just noticed; he does not rush past the moment.

- Scripture often shows that God invites reflection before revelation (Acts 7:31; Psalm 46:10).

- The shepherd’s quiet life in Midian has trained Moses to observe carefully—God uses everyday routines to prepare His servants (1 Samuel 17:34-37).

- Genuine thought precedes obedient action; contemplation is a first step toward encounter (Proverbs 4:26).

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I must go over

- Moses chooses to change direction, illustrating that divine encounters call for deliberate movement toward God (James 4:8; Hebrews 11:6).

- The phrase signals personal responsibility; no one else can investigate on his behalf (Matthew 7:7-8).

- His willingness contrasts with later Israelite fear at Sinai; Moses models drawing near rather than shrinking back (Hebrews 12:18-22).

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and see this marvelous sight

- “Marvelous” underscores that what God does exceeds human expectation (Psalm 118:23; Deuteronomy 4:32-33).

- Sight matters: God often uses visible signs to awaken faith (John 20:27-29).

- The bush is ordinary; the glory is extraordinary—God delights to reveal Himself through humble vessels (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

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Why is the bush not burning up?

- The bush ablaze yet unconsumed pictures God’s holy presence that judges sin yet preserves His people (Deuteronomy 33:16; Hebrews 12:29).

- It hints at Israel’s future: oppressed but not destroyed in Egypt and beyond (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).

- The miracle invites inquiry, not superstition; God welcomes honest questions that lead to deeper truth (Isaiah 1:18).

- Fire that purifies without consuming foreshadows deliverance stories like the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:24-27) and promises of protection (Isaiah 43:2).

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summary

Exodus 3:3 shows Moses moving from observation to investigation. His thoughtful pause, intentional approach, awe at God’s wonder, and curiosity about the undying bush form a pattern for meeting the Lord: think deeply, step closer, marvel at His works, and seek understanding. God responds to such hearts with revelation, calling, and covenant grace.