Exodus 10:9

"We will go with our young and old," Moses replied. "We will go with our sons and daughters, and with our flocks and herds, for we must hold a feast to the LORD."

Study Bible

We will go with our young and old,
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of the Israelites' departure from Egypt. It highlights the communal aspect of worship and the importance of every generation in the covenant community. The mention of both young and old underscores the collective identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people, where every member, regardless of age, is integral to the fulfillment of God's promises. This inclusivity can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament teaching that the Kingdom of God is open to all who believe, as seen in passages like Acts 2:39.

Moses replied.
Moses, as the leader and prophet, acts as the spokesperson for God and the Israelites. His role is pivotal in the narrative of the Exodus, serving as a mediator between God and Pharaoh. This reflects the typology of Moses as a precursor to Christ, who is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). Moses' leadership is characterized by obedience to God's commands and a deep commitment to the liberation of his people.

We will go with our sons and daughters,
The inclusion of sons and daughters signifies the importance of family in the worship of God. It reflects the biblical principle that faith and religious practices are to be passed down through generations, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-7. This also highlights the continuity of God's covenant promises, which are intended for future generations, ensuring the perpetuation of faith and obedience to God.

and with our flocks and herds,
The mention of flocks and herds indicates the necessity of these animals for sacrificial offerings, which were central to Israelite worship. This reflects the cultural and religious practices of the time, where sacrifices were a means of atonement and communion with God. The presence of flocks and herds also signifies the economic and social aspects of the Israelites' lives, as livestock were a primary source of wealth and sustenance.

for we must hold a feast to the LORD.
This phrase underscores the purpose of the Israelites' departure: to worship and celebrate a feast to the LORD. The feast likely refers to the Passover, which commemorates God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt. This act of worship is a response to God's mighty works and a fulfillment of His command. The concept of feasting in the presence of the LORD is a recurring theme in Scripture, symbolizing fellowship, gratitude, and the acknowledgment of God's provision and salvation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage. He is the spokesperson in this verse, addressing Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who is obstinate and refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that have afflicted his land.

3. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, also known as the children of Israel, who are enslaved in Egypt and seeking freedom to worship God.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, and where God is demonstrating His power through the plagues.

5. Feast to the LORD
A significant event that the Israelites are commanded to observe, symbolizing worship and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

Inclusive Worship
Worship is a communal activity that involves all generations. The inclusion of "young and old" emphasizes the importance of family and community in spiritual practices.

Obedience to God's Commands
The insistence on taking everyone and everything to worship underscores the need for complete obedience to God's instructions, without compromise.

Faith in God's Deliverance
Despite Pharaoh's resistance, Moses' declaration reflects faith in God's promise to deliver His people. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's plans even when facing opposition.

Holistic Commitment
The mention of taking "flocks and herds" signifies a holistic commitment to God, involving all aspects of life and resources in worship.

Celebration of God's Faithfulness
The feast represents a celebration of God's faithfulness and provision, reminding believers to regularly commemorate and give thanks for God's blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of "young and old" in Exodus 10:9 inform our understanding of the role of family in worship today?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate a holistic commitment to God in our daily lives, similar to the Israelites taking their flocks and herds?

3. How does the persistence of Moses in requesting freedom to worship challenge us to remain steadfast in our faith amidst opposition?

4. What are some modern-day "feasts" or celebrations that can help us remember and give thanks for God's faithfulness?

5. How can we ensure that the knowledge of God's works is passed down to future generations, as seen in the connection to Psalm 78:4-7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 5:1
This verse connects to the initial request Moses and Aaron made to Pharaoh to let the Israelites go to hold a feast to the LORD, showing the consistency of their mission.

Deuteronomy 16:16
This verse discusses the importance of pilgrimage feasts, emphasizing the communal and inclusive nature of worship that involves all members of the community.

Psalm 78:4-7
This passage highlights the importance of passing down the knowledge of God's works to future generations, aligning with the inclusion of "young and old" in the worship.