Moses and Aaron
Exodus 4:14-17
And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite your brother? I know that he can speak well…


I. THE CERTIFICATED AMBASSADOR. Moses.

1. His hesitation. Caused by

(1)  His own meekness. Had not a high opinion of himself.

(2)  His knowledge of the people he was sent to deliver, and also of the oppressor. He had not forgotten their rejection of him.

2. His certificate. Power to work sundry miracles is given.

3. His unbelief. Moses seems, at this time, to rely too much on human qualities. His lack of eloquence, he thinks, will be great hindrance.

II. THE GRACIOUS COMPENSATION. Moses and Aaron the complement of each other. The man of words and the man of action. Human qualities are mercifully distributed. No one man perfect. Each needs the help and talents of others. Providence designs that men should not be independent of one another. "Two heads better than one." Opposites often found in one family. Moses and Aaron — brothers. Different qualities and talents in a household to be used, and combined, for the service of God. Let none envy the gifts of others, but cultivate his own.

III. THE BROTHERS' MEETING.

1. In the wilderness. Place of brotherly meeting a garden in the desert of life. How great the joy of meeting each other where all around is paradise, and no separation or toll in prospect.

2. Marked by affection. They "kissed" each other. Mutual respect and love.

3. Their intercourse. Chief matter in hand was Moses's commission. Aaron, the elder, Cheerfully takes the second place. Is indebted for even that to the humility of Moses. They journey on together, and at once address themselves to their work.Learn —

1. God's witnesses are witnessed to. Seals to their ministry.

2. Humbly to regard ourselves, but do any work to which Providence calls us.

3. Rejoice in others' powers, and cheerfully unite for common ends.

4. Thank God for our meeting on earth, and prepare for the better one.

5. Christ, our elder Brother, meets us in the wilderness, salutes us with the kiss of love, and goes with us to all our holy labours.

(J. C. Gray.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart.

WEB: The anger of Yahweh was kindled against Moses, and he said, "What about Aaron, your brother, the Levite? I know that he can speak well. Also, behold, he comes forth to meet you. When he sees you, he will be glad in his heart.




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