What is the meaning of Exodus 6:1? But the LORD said to Moses - Israel’s burdens have just intensified (Exodus 5:22-23), yet the covenant God steps in with a fresh word. - His personal name, “the LORD,” recalls promises to the patriarchs (Exodus 3:15) and asserts unchanging faithfulness (Numbers 23:19). - Divine speech shifts the focus from human frustration to God’s sufficiency (Isaiah 55:11). “Now you will see” - The waiting period ends; tangible evidence of God’s power is imminent (Exodus 3:20; 14:13). - Faith looks forward with expectation (Psalm 46:8-10; John 11:40). “what I will do to Pharaoh” - God Himself, not Moses, confronts Egypt’s king (Exodus 9:16; Romans 9:17). - The plagues will unmask Egypt’s gods (Exodus 12:12), proving the LORD alone rules (Psalm 33:10-11). “for because of My mighty hand he will let the people go” - “My mighty hand” signals irresistible power devoted to covenant rescue (Deuteronomy 4:34; 26:8; Exodus 13:3). - Each plague chips away at Pharaoh’s defiance until he yields (Exodus 8:8; 9:27-28). - Salvation flows solely from the LORD’s initiative (Jonah 2:9; Ephesians 2:8-9). “because of My strong hand he will drive them out of his land” - The same power that forces consent turns release into expulsion (Exodus 12:31-33). - God exceeds expectations, ensuring complete freedom and Egypt’s plunder (Exodus 3:21-22; Psalm 136:11-12). - Reluctant tolerance becomes eager dismissal, displaying total victory (Psalm 105:37; Acts 7:36). summary Exodus 6:1 pivots the story from despair to decisive divine action. The LORD vows to manifest His covenant faithfulness by overwhelming Pharaoh with an outstretched hand, transforming an obstinate ruler into one who not only permits Israel’s departure but compels it. The verse calls believers to rest in the same mighty hand that still secures deliverance for His people. |