Why did Moses say, "the people come to me to inquire of God"? Setting the Scene Exodus 18 finds Moses reunited with his father-in-law, Jethro, in the wilderness near Sinai. Jethro watches Moses spend the entire day hearing disputes and rendering judgments. When asked why he carries this enormous workload alone, Moses answers, “Because the people come to me to inquire of God” (Exodus 18:15). The Weight of Mediation • Moses had been divinely appointed at the burning bush (Exodus 3:10-12). • Israel recognized him as God’s spokesman after the Red Sea (Exodus 14:31). • At this point the Law had not yet been given at Sinai; Moses was the primary conduit for God’s revealed will. • As a literal, historical figure, Moses stood between a holy God and a newly redeemed nation—an essential role until written statutes would soon be provided. Why Did the People Come to Moses? 1. To Seek Divine Guidance – They lacked personal copies of Scripture; God’s word came through Moses. – Exodus 18:16: “Whenever they have a dispute, it comes to me, and I judge between the parties and inform them of God’s statutes and laws.” 2. To Resolve Conflicts – As a single covenant community, disagreements threatened unity; Moses applied God’s standards. 3. To Learn God’s Ways – Deuteronomy 4:5-6 shows that God’s laws would set Israel apart among nations. Moses was already teaching those principles orally. 4. To Receive Assurance – Moses’ intercession reminded the people that God was personally involved in their everyday concerns (Numbers 11:2). Moses as a Shadow of Christ • Like Moses, Jesus mediates between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). • Moses spoke God’s word; Christ is the Word made flesh (John 1:14). • Moses judged righteously; Christ will ultimately judge all (Acts 17:31). Lessons for Today • God appoints trustworthy leaders to handle His word carefully (2 Timothy 2:15). • Seeking counsel grounded in Scripture safeguards unity and holiness within His people. • The ultimate answer to every inquiry is found in drawing near to the greater Mediator, Jesus, who perfectly reveals the Father’s will (Hebrews 1:1-2). Cited Scriptures Exodus 3:10-12; 14:31; 18:15-16 |
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